ADT Wireless Vs. Wired

Identification

• As of June 2010, ADT currently offers five security packages. According to the website, the "Safewatch Pro RF" and "Essentials Plus" packages offer comparable features. "Essentials Plus" mainly differs from "Safewatch Pro RF" in that it uses hardwired door, window and motion sensors as well as a control panel while the other uses similar wireless hardware. "Safewatch Pro RF" customers also receive 1-Quick Key Remote to activate or deactivate to alarm system with on button. Both packages include the "Safewatch Pro 3000 Standard Touchpad:" as well as one indoor sounder, a power supply and 24-hour battery for the system (in case of power outrage) and a yard sign that states the building is protected by ADT.

Benefits

• According to Homes Alarm, an authorized ADT dealer, wireless sensors and hardware are beneficial because one can relocate the hardware without damaging the structure (for example, the walls) of one's home. The site goes on to explain that a hardwired system cannot identify a burglar's specific entrance (which door or window) because the system works on a closed circuit. However, a wireless system alerts the home owner and ADT when there is unauthorized access, and the system detects the exact point-of-break.

  Furthermore, wireless systems perform a self-diagnosis every 40 minutes while hardwired systems require manual testing. If a wireless device discovers a problem, (such as low batteries), it will sound an alert. However, ADT's "Critical Conditions" and "Family" packages offer hardwired service and additional cover for fire, flood and carbon monoxide monitoring.

Limitatons

• Neither of these packages offers CellGuard technology. ADT offers CellGuard as a backup communication feature on its "Family" package, a wired option. This service connects the alarm system with the customer's cellular or mobile phone. In the event that a home owner has no traditional phone service or her land line loses service (in times of maintenance or because a burglar has cut the lines), the system will contact the security company via cellular phone towers, instead of land lines. None of ADT's wireless security packages include monitoring for fire safety or critical conditions such as flood, temperature increase/decrease or carbon monoxide levels.

Price

• According to ADT, the "SafeWatch Pro RF" package requires a $499 installation fee and customers will pay $35.99 per month for their alarm service. The "Essentials Plus" plan costs $349 for installation service and customers can expect to pay $33.99 per month for the quality service plan (QSP). These prices are as of June 2010.

Considerations

• Customers can purchase ADT service directly from the company or from an authorized dealer. Package options and prices vary from company to company, and some dealers may offer only hardwired or wireless solutions. The latter is the case for HomesAlarm, an authorized ADT dealer.