Wireless vs. Hardwired? Home Security Systems Revealed

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Wireless DMP XTL Security Alarm System; Image Courtesy of Digital Monitoring Products (DMP)

Wireless DMP XTL Security Alarm System; Image Courtesy of Digital Monitoring Products (DMP)

An investment in a home security system is one of the most important purchases you can make immediately after the purchase of your home. With all of the different options in the 21st century it is important to consider your options carefully. Two options discussed here today are the basic “bones” of a security system: wireless? Or hard-wired? We will be discussing the pros and cons of both.

Wireless or Hard-wired Security Alarm Systems?

Security systems whether wireless or hardwired, are typically monitored by a Central Station, such as Green Mountain Alarm’s partnership with HSMC, out of Stowe, Vermont. Rural areas in Vermont, will sometimes drive decisions on keeping a system local or have it monitored. However, it is ALWAYS recommended to have your installed system monitored, regardless of response time by emergency responders. A “local only” system will only sound, not annunciating or alerting anyone. Unless you are located right next to someone who is home at the time, non-transmission is not a good choice.

Both means can be a #DIY project. However, in inexperienced hands the possibility of having false alarms goes up. Too many false alarms often end up being subject to police department fines. In the end, DIY may not be the least-expensive option (which often drives this method to begin with).

Wired security systems and wireless security systems can be equally effective, but each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Wireless home security systems use radio waves, rather than wires or cables, to communicate between the control panel, sensors and cameras.

The Pros of Hardwired Security Alarm Systems

  1. Wired systems are able to accommodate several areas/zones of protection.
  2. Wired systems when installed properly are virtually “hacker-free” and interference from other radio-waves are a non-issue.
  3. Aesthetically-speaking, hard-wired devices are typically less obtrusive and a solid means of transmission.

The Cons of Hardwire Security Alarm Systems

  1. Wired systems installed in a home that is already build, or with closed-in walls can add largely to the labor cost.
  2. It can be difficult to penetrate certain existing material, such as brick; making it difficult or impossible to hide all the wiring.
  3. If you move, taking a hard-wired system with you can cause damage and be difficult to remove. These applications aren’t typically used in rentals or short-term leases.

The Pros of Wireless Security Alarm Systems

  1. For a transportable system in a short-term rental, this option is an excellent alternative.
  2. Wireless systems negate the trouble of drilling into existing materials and cut down drastically on labor to install in existing spaces.
  3. Wireless and hard-wired can be integrated together!

The Cons of Wireless Security Alarm Systems

  1. When properly installed, batteries on sensors of wireless systems should last 3-6 years. However, they will have to be changed and if done by a professional company, there will be a fee.
  2. Unless repeaters are installed, wireless devices need to be installed within a certain range of the central processing unit (control panel). This sometimes limits where devices can be installed.
  3. Radio frequency signals sent to and from wireless sensors may be susceptible to incidental interference, including interference from other devices that communicate using radio waves.

Security Alarm System Installation

When it comes to installation, a wireless security system can be less time consuming when compared to hard-wired systems. In the hard-wired setup, wires must be run through the home to every device and sensor, which includes all door, window, motion and glass-break sensors. Wireless home security systems are less laborious.

In the End

Green Mountain Alarm is committed to finding the best solution for you and your family.  This is our specialty and communication on all your needs and concerns will be packaged into a custom-designed system to protect your greatest asset.