By By Superpages
When it comes to selecting the best security alarm for your home, the two options that generally present themselves are wired and wireless. As technology continues to progress, more homeowners are opting to install wireless systems over hard-wired ones because of the ease of installation and versatility of these systems. While a wireless security alarm does offer many advantages over its wired counterpart, it can be helpful to compare the pros and cons of a wireless security alarm before making your final decision.
Security Alarm Pros
Portability
One of the most appealing aspects of a wireless security alarm is its portability. Unlike wired systems that require a professional to run wires through all the walls in your home, wireless systems only require a few nuts, bolts, and screws to install the system properly. As a result, wireless systems are not only easier to install, but also easier to modify. For example, if homeowners decide they want to change existing components or add new components to their system, this is much easier to do to a wireless security alarm.
Easily Modified
In addition, a wireless security alarm is perfect for renters who only stay at a particular residence temporarily. Most property owners do not allow renters to drill holes in the home’s walls to install a hard-wired alarm system. However, since wireless systems are so non-invasive, they are a perfect solution for renters who do not want to compromise on state-of-the-art home security. Because renters tend to move around more than homeowners do, wireless security alarms are also an ideal choice because they enable renters to take their systems with them when they move.
Independence
A wireless security alarm relies on batteries for power, so it does not need to connect to the power grid in your home. Therefore, you do not have to worry about a lapse in protection if a blackout occurs.
Security Alarm Cons
Battery Dependence
Because wireless alarm systems need to rely on batteries and not just your home’s electricity, you need to maintain the devices regularly to ensure that the battery levels are always at an adequate level and replace them when they are not.
Notification Capability
Many wired alarm systems have the ability to alert an alarm service, the police, or fire department if an alarm triggers. Some modern wireless alarms systems can call 911 and play a prerecorded message, though most of them are not able to integrate into the telephone system and make loud noises. However, if an alarm company monitors your wireless system, you do not need to worry about this.
Range
Wireless alarm systems transmit their information via radio signals. This means that every component must be within range of the main control panel or other central processing station. For large homes, this can be a problem and may leave some areas without coverage.
When deciding to buy a security system, you have two options. A wired system does not rely on battery power and has near-unlimited range, at the cost of being more inconvenient to install. A wireless system has far more portability, as you can change around components at your whim, and because they do not rely on your home’s electricity supply, these systems can protect you even if the power is out. For more information about which type of security system may be the best for you, contact an experienced home security professional.