Wireless Home Security FAQ

Reliability

• Though traditional home security systems use physical connections to link door and window sensors with a central control panel, wireless systems replace physical wires with radio communication. According to the Wireless Security System website, sensors in these home systems use radio transmitters to check in with the central control panel every 60 seconds. If the control center does not receive a scheduled check-in, or if the sensor reports an issue, the control panel alerts the homeowner to a potential issue. Wireless Security System points out that this wireless communication prevents false alarms from deteriorating wires and misconfigured components, and thieves cannot cut wires on a wireless system; these factors can combine to make wireless systems more reliable than their wired counterparts in some regards.

Versatility

• The home security website Home Alarm Directory notes that the lack of physical connections in wireless home systems allows homeowners greater versatility in personal protection. Homeowners can use wireless systems to secure garages, outbuildings and other structures physically separated from the main house. Wireless systems even allow homeowners with very large homes to connect door and window sensors throughout the property without the need for signal boosters necessary in wired systems. Wireless home security systems do have limits, though, as remote sensors must stay within radio range of the central control panel.

Expansion

• The wireless nature of wireless home security systems allows homeowners to connect any compatible device without the need for additional wiring or wire harness adapters. Home Alarm Directory notes that homeowners with wireless home security systems can integrate compatible smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and even remote cameras. Homeowners can also quickly add more door, window and motion sensors, often by simply attaching the devices and entering a code into the central control panel.

Cost

• Some homeowners worry that the additional wireless transceivers necessary in wireless home security systems will add to the cost, making the systems considerably more expensive than their wired counterparts. The security website Crime Doctor advises that wireless systems typically cost less than wired systems, though, and homeowners on a budget may prefer a wireless system. In addition, wireless systems do not require installers to penetrate walls or drill into door frames to connect wires, so installation costs for wireless systems can be significantly less than for wired systems. Some security dealers may even offer free installation on wireless systems, and homeowners can often install the systems themselves.