Security System Wiring

Wired home security systems have been a foundation in home security for years. According to some home security advisers, wired systems can be a solid choice for many homes because they provide reliable coverage. Home security system wiring may be included in new home construction, and many homes have already been built or wired for security systems.

The main advantages of wired systems are reliability, the potential to cover large homes and areas which are difficult to cover using wireless technology, and direct wired access to the main alarm panel.

What parts does a wired home security system include?

Wired home security systems typically include:

• Window and door contacts

• Motion detectors

• Glass break detectors

• Smoke detectors

• Battery and transformer

• Keypads for control

• Main control panel

The main control panel operates using a circuit board that is physically connected to the wires that are attached to door and window sensors. If a connection is broken, the control panel will sound an alarm.

Keypads are usually company-specific. If you buy a home that has one company’s wired security system installed and you want to change companies, you may need to install the new company’s keypad. With some companies, you can have the option of reprogramming the keypad instead of installing a new one.

Do hardwired smoke detectors offer an insurance advantage?

Hardwired smoke detectors are on-duty 24 hours a day. Some may even be able to alert first responders if they detect smoke and no one is home.

Generally, home insurance companies vary on discounts for having smoke detectors or other home security. Ask your insurance provider if you can receive a reduced rate for smoke detectors.

Can you adapt an existing wired security system?

If you’ve bought a house with existing security system wiring, the majority of the equipment may be generic. The sensors, switches, and connectors can work with almost any alarm setup. You may need to change the keypads to accommodate a new company or upgrades.

You can generally add wireless components to an existing wired system. Because some wired security system equipment can be outdated, adding contemporary components could add functionality to the older system. Wired alarm systems may be adapted to home automation and other contemporary convenient features.

Can you wire a home security system yourself?

Security system wiring is frequently built into new homes because wiring a system yourself can be complicated.

Wiring an existing home yourself generally won’t be an easy DIY project. You will need to be comfortable with electrical projects and safety.

If you are building your own home, most experts recommend that this is the best time to install wiring for security systems, including cameras, motion sensors, smoke alarms, and home automation. Many people assume that wireless security systems are more secure than wired systems due to fears of wires being cut. Cutting any one wire in a wired security system will not disable the system any more than pulling a remote sensor off the wall in a wireless system will disable it.

Brinks Home™ has many options when it comes to securing your home. We can adopt most wired home security systems, as well as integrate our systems with your existing system. We’re here to build your perfect home security with you. Give us a call today.

Linley Stringer is a copywriter with Brinks Home. She is passionate about telling stories that keep consumers informed and protected.