Ensuring A Safe And Successful Home Security System Installation
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Installing a security system in the home can provide a real sense of security for homeowners since it does add an additional layer of protection for the homeowner, their family, and their belongings. Some home security systems are complicated requiring professional installation, while others are simpler and can be installed by the homeowner themselves.
It is very important that any home security system be installed correctly if it is to do its job. A home security system that is not installed according to manufacture directions may have false alarms or may not alarm at all. This does not mean that all home security systems need to be professionally installed, but it does mean that all installations need to be done carefully and thoroughly. The purpose of a home security system is to prevent a burglar or an intruder from entering the security system’s zone of protection. Some homeowner’s place signs informing potential intruders that there is a security system on the premises. There are pros and cons to this. While it may deter a break-in, it may also remove any element of surprise providing the intruder some element of control. Correctly installing a home security system and surprising an intruder may be a better option. |
The following steps can help ensure a successful home security system installation:
- Ensure all sensors are out of easy reach so they cannot be disabled without triggering another sensor and setting off the alarm
- Ensure there are sensors at all access points, including sensors placed where intruders may wait (in yard, behind bushes, etc.)
- Recommend not publicizing existence of home security system
- Make manual activation of system as easy as possible
- Allow sensors to be temporarily disabled through control panel. This allows homeowner and home security agency to deal with denial of service attacks
- Home security system should have capacity to self-monitor for system failures such as circuit failures, weak wireless signals, etc., and warn homeowner or monitoring agency
- Ensure monitoring agency is reliable and has redundant back-up capacity with 24-hour monitoring
- Back up batteries should have at least 12 hours capacity
- The home security system should be installed and configured in accordance with manufacture requirements. No armed hot spots should create false alarms nor should they interfere with the homeowner’s daily life or activities
Home security systems come in either wireless or hard-wired configuration, but hard-wired is usually done with new building rather than an existing building because of cost. A wireless system is easier to do as a Do-It-Yourself installation. Adding a home security system can provide real peace of mind for a homeowner and provide additional protection for both their family and their personal property.