Home Security Systems

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Bruise Lee

Joined
Aug 4, 2002
Messages
363
I've been thinking about installing a home security system in my house since I bought it 9 years ago. Since some a#@hole just broke into my locker at the gym and stole my keys, I'm really thinking about it now (I didn't have my ID in the locker so I doubt he knows where I live, but still). I also remember reading about another forum member who had his place broken into and a lot of his possessions stolen - terrible.

I am leaning towards a local system that does not incur a monthly charge from an alarm company because money is tight. I am lucky enough to live in a good neighborhood, so I know if an alarm goes off and I'm not home, my neighbors, who are great, will call the authorities.

I am very handy will tools, so I'm not afraid to tackle a do it yourself project. On the other hand, I know there are some times you definitely want to hire a pro, and since this should be a one time cost, I'd be willing to fork over the $$$.

Security bars and gates are out, because it would really stand out in the neighborhood - nobody else for at least a mile has them. Also, my house has so much glass in it would look ridiculous.

Any thoughts or advice on this matter would be greatly appreciated. The thought of some punk taking the things an honest citizen has labored a lifetime to earn makes me sick.

Bruise
 
Bruise, I'd agree, it's a very good idea. Here's what I would check out...

You can get wireless sensors for windows and doors, so you don't have to mess with wiring them all. The sensors are a magnet and coil - coil goes into the window or door frame, and magnet goes on the moving part of the door/window. Each has a wireless ID, and the alarm controller has a wireless receiver that listens to all of the sensors. You can wire all of the windows and doors, and if you're really concerned, you can also install glass break sensors which will listen for glass breaking in the vicinity. The glass break sensors can be fooled by things like loud clapping noises, but they're actually pretty good.

I would also recommend getting a controller that has a "Watch Tone" - you can set the controller to just beep (not ring the big alarm) when one of the points is faulted. This gives you a little extra peace of mind if you're home and just want to know if/when a door or window opens (kids in the house going outside, etc.). NIce feature to have.

The installation of the whole system shouldn't be beyond a home improvement project, but if you plan on using the services of the alarm company they may not allow it and only allow installation by their techs.

Best of luck...
 
I would not pay a monthly fee for someone to "monitor" the system.
What is the point? They aren't going to be there fast enough to matter.

Therefore, I would harden the bedroom (pm me for my way) and have a system put in that will alarm you if you are there.

If you're not there, the items stolen are enough to make one furious. However, they can be replaced.

I want the warning for the wife if I'm gone more than anything.

All I want from a system is notice. I don't expect help.
 
as far as respnse speed form the alarm co. it depends on where ya live , i live in a fairly small rural city and i have accidently set mine off a time/2, and they were arriving w/in 3 minutes.......i know in some cities they may never come,


greg
 
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