Things to consider when buying an Intruder Alarm System

Design

When buying an alarm, you need to consider the reasons you are getting it for and then the design will naturally fall in around that. If your system is at the behest of insurers then you will need a professionally designed system with third party approval (SSAIB or equivalent). If not then still consider employing a professional security installer, the reason for saying this is that some alarm systems sold (especially Smart Alarm systems) are more gadgets than security systems.

Wired or Wireless?

If choosing a professional system then there is no right or wrong, it basically boils down to some simple considerations: –
• How easy if your premises to cable?
• Will engineers being on site impede the daily productivity of the workforce?
• Are there considerations not to use wireless? Thick walls, metal obstructions, excessive radio waves within the property
• Running Costs

If choosing wireless ensure you pick a robust model (for example Texecom) as it will come with benefits in coverage and reliability. You will need to factor in additional expense on servicing as each device will need the batteries changed. They can last 3 years with low usage but rule of thumb budget to change batteries every 2 years.

Monitoring?

There are a few ways in which you can have your system monitored
Audible Only – the system sounds internally and externally (for a maximum of 15 mins externally) and you rely on this scaring burglars away

Monitored at ARC (Alarm Receiving Centre) – on activation the system sends a signal to the monitoring station which is manned 24 hours a day. This can be via phone line, broadband, GPS (radio signal) or a combination of any two of the three options. The ARC will then alert nominated keyholders and in some cases the local Police Authority

APP – on activation the system contacts your smartphone, this facility also gives you the option to set/unset and receive status reports for the alarm system

Maintenance

It is a very good idea to subscribe to a maintenance agreement, and once again if the system is installed for insurance purposes this will be a requirement. A regular check (twice yearly for monitored systems and once for others) will ensure your system remains fit for purpose.

One Comment

Leave a Reply