If I could have the choice between the two types of installed systems, I would want a Hard-wired system every time. However, I would want a company to install it that has the experienced technicians available to do the job so that my home is not destroyed.
So why would I want this when it is so fashionable to use the word "wireless"?
Professionally installed Hard-Wired systems have many advantages:
- Aesthetics. Recessed door/window contacts leave a "clean" look to the finished installation. Wireless contacts are typically surface mounted and bulky.
- No batteries to maintain. Wireless contacts need batteries to work.
- Less service issues. Wireless contacts are required to send "supervisory" signals to the control panel frequently. It lets the control panel know the status of the device. However, you can occasionally get interference from other wireless devices in your home that cause the security system to think there is a malfunction. This causes all kinds of problems.
- Probably the most important is the SECURITY ISSUES. Wireless window contacts are normally easy for someone looking through your window to identify and bypass.
Now having given just a few reasons why I prefer Hardwired equipment, let me say that some homes will require the use of some wireless equipment. For example, multi-story finished homes will most likely need wireless.
But there is a big difference between the types of wireless systems that companies will offer you. BEWARE of the ALL IN ONE WIRELESS SYSTEM!!!!!! This is used by some companies because their technicians can do a very fast install. The system will have the keypad, siren, control panel, and battery all in one unit. The installers will then just put up the wireless devices in your home. In the security industry, we call this "lick'em and stick'em" systems. I could never conscientiously offer one to a customer that I actually cared about. How some companies can do it is beyond my comprehension.
If you take the security of your home and family seriously, avoid this at all cost. A burglar could easily just pull the unit off of your wall and your security is over. That's all it would take, and the entire "brains" to your security system is in plain site for all to see.
If you have to install wireless, make sure it is a professional wireless system. This means that your system will utilize a hidden control panel and that your keypad, and siren will be wired at their locations. This will now make it as secure as a hardwired system would be in your home.
To sum up:
Hire a company that thinks Hard-Wired 1st, but has the ability to provide professional wireless installation if necessary. You'll be glad you did.
Brandon Firestine/WNC Alarm, Inc
(828) 398-4614 www.wncalarm.com
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