DIY Home Security - Installing an Alarm System
DIY – Do It Yourself – is a popular concept in a tight economy, especially with evolving businesses and technologies. There’s a DIY cable channel, DIY websites, and the process of installing a home security system is also moving to a DIY model.
Wireless security systems are known as “plug and play,” because homeowners can plug the control panel into an outlet, affix door or window sensors and motion detectors in designated locations and in a matter of minutes have their system up and running.
There’s no need to have to wait around for hours for a technician to show up during some pre-arranged block of time. We offer the first completely “plug and play” solution. The system takes about a half-hour to have up and running. It takes three steps: Plug in the control panel to an electrical outlet, either using the provided tabletop stand or by mounting the panel on a wall. Place the sensors around the house with the high-grade adhesive backing; just hold them in place for 30 seconds and they’re ready to go. And lastly, call us to activate the system remotely and answer any questions.
A wireless system requires no drilling, while a traditional wired system typically requires drilling to accommodate about 10 wires throughout the home. Another plus of the DIY approach is that the system can be removed easily to move to another home. Additional equipment – from sensors to miniature cameras – can also be purchased to expand your protection at any time.
There are times when a technician’s expertise is necessary, even in setting up a wireless system. Those situations would include complex installations, such as dividing a very large home into multiple zones with highly customized settings for the different zones, or when the security system is being integrated with high-end (and typically expensive) home automation systems that control lighting and climate. Technicians would also be needed to set up a system capable of recording video 24/7, although probably wouldn’t be needed for a DIY system with motion activated video triggered by an alarm or a security “event.”
But for the most part, the newer “plug and play” wireless systems don’t require a professional install and typically don’t take more than a half-hour to put in.
Some tips for installing a system:
- Place the control panel near an electrical outlet, but not one operated by a switch. The panel can be near a frequently used door, but should not be easily visible from the outside. It also shouldn’t be too close to appliances that might block radio waves, including microwaves, televisions and radios.
- Place sensors on exterior doors, garage doors, some interior doors and on selected windows. Door and window sensors come with a transmitter and a magnet and these items need to line up so that when the magnet is separated from the transmitter, the alarm is activated.