Do-it-yourself alarm systems are typically sold in kits and are easy to install. All home alarm systems involve a sounder, or ringer, that goes off in the case of intrusion. The sounder is connected to all possible points of entry to detect disturbances in those areas. Installation involves placing the sounder in a location where it can be easily heard throughout the house, installing a battery so that the sounder sounds even if the electricity is out, attaching sensors to windows and doors you want monitored, installing the control panel, establishing an entry code, and testing your system.
If you have a do-it-yourself alarm system it is probably “wireless” which means that it does not rely on a complex system of electrical wires running through your walls that an electrician would need to help with. Instead, you have an alarm, a control panel and sensors for your doors and windows.
Set your control panel in an easy to reach location where the display will be readable. Your control panel should have a battery and also be able to wire into the wall to conserve battery power. Make sure you purchase a control panel that cannot be tampered with or simply unplugged by an intruder. Wire the control panel into your wall by following the instructions or consulting an electrician. Test and install the battery.
Choose the location for your sounder and mount it to a high, hard to reach area where it cannot be tampered with or silenced and so it can be heard throughout the house. The sounder should also have a battery and get additional power from the electricity inside the home. Just as with the control panel, it is best to wire this directly into your wall.
Sensors usually consist of a magnet and a transmitter. The transmitter should be mounted on the door and window so that, when the door or window are closed, the magnet is perfectly in line with the transmitter that can sense the magnet. When the door or window is opened, the signal is broken, triggering the alarm.
Once you have finished install, you must test your system. Try to enter from all possible points to make sure sensors and signals are appropriately connected. Establish a numerical entry code that is easy for your family to remember, but isn’t easy to guess. A poor choice would be your birthday or your address.
Your alarm system is now tested and installed. It is important to check batteries often, make sure sensors stay in place and change your password every year. Be certain to let friends and family members know you have an alarm system installed to avoid false alerts.
A home alarm system provides security whether you are home or not, and, when properly installed and maintained, can protect your home, your family and your valuables. Always pay close attention to the installation and maintenance instructions that come with your home security system. Test your security system regularly to ensure it will work when you need it to.
