Alarm System Guidelines

Preparation

• Before shopping for alarm systems, perform a walk-through of your house. Count how many sensors your house requires. All points of entry, such as doors, windows, garages and basements, should be counted. Sensors will need to be placed at all possible points of entry. Locate possible locations for motion sensors if you want to use these. A motion sensor will activate lights around the house before the burglar reaches a point of entry. When lights turn on, a burglar is less likely to continue toward the house. Locate a good place for the keypad. The keypad turns the alarm system on and off. It will need to be easily accessible from the main entrance but hidden at the same time.

Compare

• Contact multiple security monitoring companies. Report the information about the layout of your house and your personal security needs. Compare packages and prices from more than one company before settling. You may also purchase a personal alarm system that only alerts the owner when someone enters unexpectedly. These types of alarm systems will sound an alarm, but it will be up to the owner to take further action, such as calling the police.

Types

• Alarm systems can either be wireless or connected by wires. In a connected system, cables are run between each individual component. This usually requires a professional to run wiring safely through the walls. Wireless equipment takes batteries and uses radio signals to communicate. Sensors can be stuck to the wall, and keypads can be mounted to the wall with brackets. When deciding whether you want a wireless system, keep in mind that batteries must be checked often and replaced in a wireless system. On the other hand, power outages or other electrical complications can turn a connected system off.

Setup

• Once your system is in place, you will have to run a setup. Turn on the equipment and set the date, time and other features. Simple setup directions should come with your equipment. If you are working with a security monitoring company, call to verify that your equipment is working and run a live test with a representative. If you are using a personal wireless security system, conduct a test with a helper to ensure the alarm sounds.