Hard Wired Systems vs. Wireless Alarm Systems
Following are the pros and cons of a hard wired and wireless alarm system:
Wireless Alarm System
Pros
- Cost
While the cost might seem a little high at first, but it more than makes up for the features it offers. The overall maintenance is extremely low and you don’t have to worry about installation. Most companies offer alarm maintenance services annually with their products.
- Installation Time
Since you don’t have to worry about any wires, depending on a four bedroom house, it takes around 5 hours to complete the installation.
- Aesthetics
A wireless alarm system blends naturally with the exterior and interior of your house. It is clean, less disruptive and comes in various designs to match the house’s decor.
- Extensions
Adding a new alarm system type such as a motion detector is quite easy. Since all devices are controlled by a smart phone app, the extensions will work on the same frequency and require nothing more but a connection from the server and you are good to go.
- Temporary Removal
If you are doing some DIY project on the wall that has the alarm system on it, then you don’t have to worry about calling in the maintenance guy for help. Simply remove the device and type in the master code on the LCD pad to silence it. Once you are done with the DIY, attach the alarm back.
- Portable
If moving to a new house, simply call over the alarm maintenance service and get all the alarms removed.
Cons
- Running Costs
Batteries in alarms such as sirens, door contacts, keypads, etc., require a battery change after every 2 years. As for the control panel, a battery change is required after every 5 years.
- False Alarm
An alarm with a lower frequency band is more likely to trip up often. Alarm with a frequency band of 868MHz tends to be more stable and quiet.
Hard Wired System
Pros
- Low Running Costs
Since everything operates on wiring, there’s no need for a battery change. Only the battery in the main panel will have to be changed after 5 years.
- No False Alarms
Since there are no motion detectors, there’s a very low chance of the system malfunctioning. If a false alarm does occur, it might be due to the battery dying.
- Performance
Systems that meet the EN 50131 British Standards are the best for domestic and commercial security purposes.
- Secure
If installed by a professional, the system is as secure as a wireless alarm. Even if the cables are chewed on by mice, you will be notified through the tamer circuit.
Cons
- Cost
The cost is much lower than a wireless system but the installation is complex. In domestic areas, the cost is higher because it requires more time for trunking, so that the cables can be hidden out of sight.
- Installation Time
Depending on a four bedroom house, it takes around 1.5 days to complete the installation.
- Unappealing Look
If the wires are not properly hidden, they might drop down from the window or the main door of the house, which can be quite unappealing.
- Additional Cost on Extensions
Adding another security system in your shed can be a problem if the cables do not reach the main control panel. This means running a new cable from the main source and re-routing it, so that it reaches the system.
- No Temporary Removal
Removing any part of the alarm system can result in a disaster. A single miscalculation on your part when rewiring can cost you your life and valuables. It may also blow up the auxiliary fuse. In case you want to remove it temporarily, better call a security installer.
- Not Portable
Though the devices can be disconnected and removed, you will need another set of cables for your new home.
If you are ready to get an alarm system installed in your house, Eagle Security Solutions will help you determine which one is best suited to your security needs. They offer a wide range of security products along with alarm monitoring service and alarm maintenance. For further information, call 020 8853 0580.
