How to Safely Remove a Wired Security System

Removing an existing wired home security system may seem like a daunting task. However, it’s not as intimidating as it may sound, since you normally don’t need to remove the entire system. This is especially true if you are upgrading your system or replacing it. Here are a series of tips that will guide you through the process of removing an older security system:

1. Contact Your Alarm Company

The first thing you will want to do is contact your alarm company if your system is connected to a monitoring service. Most monitoring services will automatically dispatch the police if a wire is cut or if the system loses power. This is why you should always call your provider before making any changes to your system.

2. Disconnect the Sirens

Most security systems feature a siren on a separate circuit. This is designed to sound if a potential intruder attempted to damage any of your alarms by cutting or disabling the power to the main system. In most cases, this siren will also sound if the system detects an interruption to the power supply. You will want to make sure that the power is disconnected from the security system as well as the siren circuit.

3. Pull Off Control Panels

The control panel is the heart and soul of any security system. Once all the other components have been removed, simply pull the panel down. Once removed, you will find a bundle of wires. You will need to either reconnect these wires to your new control panel or cap them off if you don’t plan on installing a different system.

4. Remove Old Battery Packs

If you are upgrading your current system, you may not have to remove your old battery pack. If your current battery pack is in good enough condition, it may be salvaged as part of your home security upgrade. However, if it’s an older pack it will likely need to be replaced. If this is the case, all you will need to do is remove it and dispose of it properly. Most battery packs are located behind the control cabinet for the system. Make sure to remove both the black and red wires that feed into the pack if you are removing the entire battery unit. After you have completed that, cap the wires off if you plan on having the new cabinet installed in another location or if you don’t plan on using the existing wiring.

5. Remove Other Components

Once you’ve disconnected the power, you can then begin to uninstall other elements associated with your current security system. Additional elements can range from motion sensors to glass break sensors to cameras. Some of these components will be installed with screws and others, such as window/doorway detectors, will be installed with a basic adhesive. If you have a hard time removing residual adhesive “goop,” try some rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This should do the trick and break apart any remaining adhesive residue.

6. What do I do With the Wiring?

Unless your wiring is extremely old or badly damaged, you will most likely not need to remove any of it. If you’re upgrading to a newer system, leave the wiring in place and allow the new alarm company to determine if they can use the current wiring or not. In most cases, your new alarm company will use the current wiring. If not, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional, like an electrician, for assistance. Depending on your circumstances, your current or soon-to-be former security provider might also be willing to give you additional support.

7. Contact Brinks Home

The reality of technology is that once it gets old, it needs to be removed and upgraded. Especially if you want it to connect with other smart devices in your home like an Alexa, Google Home, or other virtual assistant. Our Brinks Home Hub manages all your security and smart home products using a touchscreen panel filled with powerful capabilities designed to make your life easier and safer. If you are looking to make a switch or upgrade your security provider as well, consider Brinks Home; a trusted name in security for over 160 years. Keeping over 1M Americans safe, you can trust that Brinks Home provides some of the best-in-class products and protection available. Once you contact us, you can expect a free quote on your new wireless security system, professional monitoring, expert technicians, and more. Don’t wait! If you are planning on upgrading or switching your security system, contact us today!