Three Tips For Installing Your Security Alarms

Security alarms are a great defensive method to both scare a burglar off and to alert you to their presence. When combined as part of an overall home security system including proper locks, CCTV systems and remote monitoring, security alarms are extremely effective at their role. However, there is no perfect guide for where to place security alarms, how many you need and how to maintain them. If you are thinking about getting security alarms but don't know the answers to those questions, then here is a brief outline of what to look for. 

Placement

Security alarms should always be placed in an open space that is away from highly trafficked areas such as your lounge room or kitchen. Depending on how many you have, you should consider having some security alarms at every ground-level entrance. Put the alarm about waist high and in plain view. Remember, you don't need to hide a security alarm. The idea is that if the would-be intruder sees a security alarm they are far more likely to leave anyway, thereby the security alarm still acts as a deterrent if seen. So put it in on an open wall, with no moving parts around it.

How Many Do You Need?

The more security alarms the better but at a bare minimum, you need at least two at your front door. Depending on how strong the motion detection is, you may need three or even four around your front door, which is why it is sometimes better to spend a little extra so as not to clutter your front room. Every door or entrance you want to protect should have at least two security alarms placed on them unless you are getting an extremely high-end model in which case one might be enough. Some people feel safer having a security alarm on the stairwell to the second floor, but this is, of course, up to you and whether you go downstairs a lot during the night.

Installation And Maintenance

Security alarms should always be installed by an electrician, and many people get them set up at the same time as their CCTV systems and other protective appliances like their smoke detectors. If your security alarms are battery-operated, they will give you a warning when they are running low (usually a loud beep, much like the smoke detectors). Every six months you should run a test or call for a service by your electrician. After all, there is no point in having security alarms if they are broken by the time anyone tries to break into your home. Most repairs and maintenance on security alarms are very simple and cheap, it is just part of your precautions as a dutiful homeowner. 

For more information, reach out to a professional about security alarms.