7 Tips to Safely Remove an Older 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 the alarm company

You will want to 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 would-be intruder cuts the power to the main system. In most cases, this siren will also sound if the system detects an interruption in the power supply. You will want to make certain to disconnect the power 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 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 the upgrade. However, if it’s an older pack it will likely need to be replaced. If this is the case, all you need to do is remove it. 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. 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 to 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, it is best to let an electrician handle this part of the removal process.

7. Contact Brinks Home™

Once all elements of your old, wired security system are removed, or if you’d simply prefer a professional’s touch, contact Brinks Home for a free quote on your new wireless security system with 24/7/365 professional monitoring.