Hardwired vs Wireless Home Security

When the choices between security systems sound scarily like the choices between telephones, making a decision can get confusing. Hard-wired versus wireless may seem like a lot to consider, but really, you’re unlikely to go wrong either way.

However, they each have their pros and cons which you’ll want to consider for your home and lifestyle.

Hard wired systems, like landlines phones, are very reliable although a little more limiting. From an aesthetic point of view, they are much nicer when the “pre-wiring” is built right into the house. This makes it quick and easy to install and activate a system with minimal invasive work.

That’s not to say that you or a professional company can’t install a hard-wired security system to look nice. But it may not be a quick project and if the situation is really difficult, it may require some aesthetic cover-ups of the wiring.

Why all the hassle? Hard wired systems are highly reliable. Few things can accidentally turn them off – including power outages – and they can easily last for decades. Sure, every now and then you may want to upgrade the control panel or the sensors as technologies change – but once the main installation is complete, those are fairly easy.

Costs don’t have to be extensive on a hard-wired system. If you play your cards right and shop smartly, you may be able to find a good deal with a security system provider who will do the installation at a low price – or even free.  For example, Walker Home Security in Texas (http://www.walkerhomesecurity.com/new_alarm_systems.php) offers free equipment and installation for hardwired security systems provided the home is conducive.

Wireless security systems have the major advantage of being quick and easy to install – no matter what your home is like. In a wireless system, a central server connects with sensors and the control panel via radio waves. Therefore, walls, attics, basements, or any other helpful or unhelpful spaces don’t impede a successful installation.

So, why doesn’t everyone do this? A lot of people do. But there are a lot of parts that are subject to malfunction. All the radios have to be working to be truly effective. Each part needs a battery which eventually needs replacing. The server has to connect into a hardwired phone jack.

Is it a problem? Most of the time, wireless security systems work great. They have added advantages in that you can easily install them yourself and if and when you move, you can take them with you.

If you get your wireless security system through a professional security system company such as Protect America (http://www.protectamerica.com/), you can ask for technological upgrades as systems evolve – often at no additional cost.

In the end, the best thing is to consult a home security system company or dealer. Assess your home’s capabilities as well as your life plans and needs. Either way, you’re still getting peace of mind.

Photo via hiddencameraman