Installing a burglar alarm system in your home or business can give you great peace of mind and improve security. However, there are several important things to consider during the burglar alarm installation process to ensure you get the most effective system to meet your needs. This article outlines 8 key tips to keep in mind when installing a burglar alarm.
1. Choose a Reliable Alarm Company
The first thing you want to do is choose a reputable, reliable alarm installation company. Look for an established local company that has many years of experience installing and servicing residential and commercial alarm systems in your area. They should be properly licensed, bonded, and insured. This protects you in case any issues occur with workmanship or damage. The company should also have a monitoring station able to handle security system signals 24/7 if you want professional monitoring.
Be sure to check online reviews and talk to neighbors or friends who have alarms to get personal references. A company that offers ongoing support is also key —you want them to be able and willing to address any problems with the system, perform routine maintenance, test components, and install updates. Establishing a relationship with a dependable alarm company that will work closely with you for the long-term is an important investment in your property’s safety and security.
2. Decide Where Key Components Will Go
Carefully planning out locations for your alarm system components is crucial. Walk through the property with your installer to map out where to optimally place the main control panel/keypad, motion detectors, door and window sensors, glass break detectors, cameras and other hardware. The control panel should go in a frequently accessed spot so it’s convenient to use but out of direct sight. Motion sensors should focus on entryways and hallways approaching valuables.
Door/window sensors need to be applied to any exterior access points. Make sure there are glass break sensors nearby larger windows. Place indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras to capture critical spots like driveways, entrances, and areas covering valuables. Also consider areas prone to environmental issues like temperature/moisture fluctuations so components aren’t placed there. Paying attention to strategically placing security hardware tailored to your unique property layout and risk areas ensures better protection.
3. Consider Your Connectivity Options
Today’s security systems can integrate with multiple communication pathways to transmit signals and enable remote control capabilities. Three main connectivity options to discuss with your provider are: landline, broadband internet, and cellular. A landline phone connection is the most basic and affordable option but requires on-site phone service. High-speed home internet allows IP-based systems to use the web for alarm communications, mobile alerts, and remote access features.
Cellular connectivity via wireless networks is convenient if no or unreliable phone/internet service—ideal for vacation homes. Weigh factors like reliability, vulnerability, capabilities enabled, and costs for each pathway based on your property. For example, internet and cellular options facilitate handy smartphone notifications, live video monitoring, and control via apps. But they’re prone to network disruptions. Discuss aligning the right connectivity technologies with your usage needs and budget.
4. Account for Power Outages
Power outages are one of the biggest threats to security alarm device systems, causing them to entirely shut down when they may be needed most. To keep your system working during blackouts, install battery backups that automatically provide emergency power to the control panel and devices. Consult with your provider on battery capacities required to maintain complete functionality for 6-12 hours minimum during an outage. Rechargeable backup batteries are continually trickle-charged so they stay ready when called upon. Investing in an adequate uninterruptible power supply is essential to making sure your alarms, sensors and notifications keep running if the electricity fails.
5. Use an Enclosure for Any Outdoor Equipment
Exposing security hardware to outdoor conditions risks premature failure from moisture, temperature fluctuations, dirt, insects and tampering. Installing external components like sirens, security cameras, motion sensors, and lights without protection cuts their service life tremendously. Discuss weatherproof housings and vandal-resistant enclosures with your installer to safeguard any gear placed outside. Sturdy enclosures made of durable plastics or metals seal out rainfall, snow, humidity and condensation that erodes circuits. Proper mounts also direct water runoff away. Taking steps to secure outdoor equipment in protective shells tailored for location climate, weather and area risks gives the best assurance your system stays operational through all seasons.
6. Familiarize Yourself with Using the System
Don’t wait until an emergency to learn your alarm system! Take time when it’s installed to have the installer show you how to properly arm, disarm and temporarily bypass zones in the system. Make sure everyone who needs regular access to the property learns to use the system proficiently. Consult your manual and provider for any questions.
7. Set Up Alert Notifications
Take advantage of your system’s ability to send alerts when the alarm is triggered. Establish notifications to be sent to you via smartphone app alerts, text messages, and/or emails for both daily events and alarm events. Having notifications set up delivers peace of mind that you’ll be promptly alerted to any activity.
8. Schedule Follow-Up and Routine Maintenance
Finally, once initial installation is complete, make sure to schedule any needed follow-up visits to finish set-up details or tweak components. Also set reminders for periodic maintenance visits from your provider to keep the system working properly over time. This includes tasks like testing backup batteries, adjusting sensors and more.
Conclusion
Following these 8 guidelines will help ensure your new burglar alarm system delivers maximum protection. Carefully planning cctv camera installation with a reliable security provider allows you to tailor the system to your property’s unique needs. Be sure to use high-quality components placed strategically in proper enclosures. And take time to fully familiarize yourself with using the system so you always stay informed of activity. Maintaining your alarm with periodic maintenance will allow it to serve you reliably for years to come. Taking these steps during installation will provide enduring security and peace of mind.
