Home Alarm Systems

The first home security systems were run by wiring that ran through the walls and floors. These hardwired systems have an electrical panel with all the instrumentation that is wired to the sensors, alarms and keypads. Some people put in their own hardwired security systems, especially if they are building or renovating their house and do not expect to connect to an outside monitoring service that is contacted in case of an emergency. Putting in your own system can save hundreds of dollars. It becomes more expensive when you try to put a hardwired system after construction, because of the labor. That is when a wireless system is more practical.

Although wireless systems are usually more costly than hardwired ones, there is no wiring that has to be snaked in and around the floors and walls. There is usually less maintenance involved with wireless systems, as well, because there are no wires that can inadvertently be pulled out. Wireless home security technology is very flexible. It can be used in any room or part of the property for alarms for doors, driveways, motion and infrared sensors, lights that randomly go on and off and security cameras. Some homes cannot use wireless systems because of problems with reception. About half of all home alarm systems are now wireless.

Use door and window sensors for your exterior doors and several windows. For larger areas in and around your home, you can use motion sensors with hardwired or wireless technology; the wireless are easier to put anywhere without the problems of wires. Because motion sensors detect body temperature at a 90-degree angle, the best location for them is in a corner where each wall will be covered. Install them at a maximum of five feet in order to catch motion on the ground, too. Put glass break sensors on sliding glass doors or picture windows. The sensors' signal range varies from several feet to 5,000 square feet. Some have both infrared and microwave signals for better protection.

You can now use your computer and Internet for your security system, including the use of security cameras. You can have messages sent to your pager or e-mail if there is any problem. Even when you are out of town, you can check in on your home safety system. This also means that you do not have to have a phone line, if you only use a cell phone. You can use it with either a wired or wireless broadband Internet. Of course, if and when the Internet goes down, so does your home security system.

Most systems you can use either with or without a monitoring system. However, you would not want to use cameras, for example, without them being monitored. In the best case scenario, security professionals agree that monitoring is most effective in deterring crime, quickly contacting the police and keeping you informed of any problems when you are not home. The monitor can also be contacted by you at any time with just a touch of the button.