• Burglar Alarms FAQ

    Date: 2010.03.29 | Tags:

    There are many ways burglar alarms help keep families and homes safe. Still, some people choose to go without one in their home. It is not because they can’t afford it, as burglar alarms are extremely affordable; but it is simply because they do not have enough information to understand how burglar alarms work and how they can benefit from having one installed.

    Here is a compiled list of questions that are asked from people just like you about burglar alarms and the advantages of having one in their home.

    Why get a burglar alarm if you live in a gated community?

    Gated communities are a great idea. They offer families a sense of security and deter criminal activity throughout the community. However, gated communities also leave homeowners with a false sense of security. While it is true that a guard gate will be an effective way to keep burglars out, they do very little to protect each individual home. Burglar alarms should be used in all homes, even if they have guards and guard gates.

    Can you put an alarm system in yourself?

    Sure, you can. Wireless burglar alarms are very easy to install. Some companies even offer DIY burglar alarms for those who feel they can handle the task of installing their own alarm system. One of the main reasons folks do this is because they feel this is a cost effective solution to having a professional install their alarm. This is not always the case.

    In fact, most people end up calling a professional to come “clean up” their installation after they realize it is not as easy as they thought. In the end, it will end up costing the homeowner more than if he or she would have just went with a professional from the get-go.

    Is it true that your alarm system will not work if you lose power?

    Most, if not all, alarm companies install back-up batteries on all of their burglar alarms. In the event of a power outage, the back-up battery will provide power to the burglar alarm system. Depending on the battery that was installed in your system, you can go for hours running on the back-up battery. Back-up batteries are just for that reason: back-up. They are not meant to be used for long-term situations or in longer-than-usual power failures.

    Do you need to have a landline in your home to have your burglar alarm monitored?

    No. You can opt to have your alarm monitoring done through a cellular radio. A cellular radio is one of the fastest and most reliable ways an alarm system can be monitored. Burglar alarms with cellular radios installed are becoming increasing popular as homeowners are dropping their landlines in lieu of using VoIP or cellular phone service only.

    Are burglar alarms available to homeowners only? What if I rent?

    Renters are often targeted by burglars because the chance of a renter investing in a burglar alarm and having it monitored are slim. Don’t let your home become an easy target for a burglar. Many home security companies offer burglar alarms for renters at highly affordable prices.