When considering a new intruder alarm system for your home or commercial premises you will no doubt want to weigh up the pros and cons for both wired and wireless intruder alarm systems.
You are not alone…
Let’s start at the beginning with a brief explanation of each type of intruder alarm system.
Wired Intruder Alarm systems
Wired intruder alarm systems are the older solution of the two but are still relevant and widely used. Wired intruder alarm systems use cabling, connecting each alarm devices which includes passive infrared sensors (PIR), Door Contacts, Keypads, Soundersto the intruder alarm panel.
Once upon a time, these were considered the most reliable option out of the two systems. However, recent wireless technology is a lot more reliable and evens out the playing field.
Wireless Intruder Alarm systems
It is worth noting that, although the name suggests a wireless intruder alarm system is completely without wires, the control panel is wired to a power source – otherwise it wouldn’t work. The wireless part comes into play with the alarm devices, which communicate information to the control panel.
The majority of professional intruder alarms systems are Hybrid, which allows for both wired and wireless devices. Below we lay out all the facts to help you make the right decision. Let’s start with the most important.
1. Installation Cost
Although the components may be pricier, the installation process for a wireless intruder alarm system is significantly quicker compared to a wired intruder alarm system (usually half the time). As a result, in most cases, an intruder alarm system using wireless devices would be cheaper than a full wired intruder alarm system.
However, for businesses with cable trays or suspended ceilings or domestic new builds the cost of cabling and labour may decrease, potentially making wired intruder systems more favourable. While the initial installation of a wired intruder alarm system may be disruptive, once the wires are in place, they will remain there permanently. In the future, if you choose to upgrade your system, you can reuse the existing cabling. This is a key factor to keep in mind.
Winner: Wireless
2. Running costs
Wireless intruder alarm systems incur additional expenses for replacing sensor batteries, most manufacturers recommend these are changed every two years. These costs can accumulate over time, and the exact amount will vary based on the number of devices in your system.
Please keep in mind that regular upkeep is highly recommended to maintain the proper functioning of your system. No matter which system you decide on, properly maintaining it will help prolong the lifespan of your equipment.
Winner: Wired
3. Reliability
In previous years, we would have recommended a wired intruder alarm system as the superior choice. However, both types of systems now offer sufficient reliability – with one caveat: for a wireless intruder alarm system to maintain connectivity, its equipment must remain within a specific distance from the control panel and other devices. It’s a close one, but wired edges it.
Winner: Wired
4. Disruption and Aesthetics
When installing a fully wired intruder alarm system, professional security companies should take great pride in concealing cable for a neat and tidy install. However, a wireless intruder alarm system usually provides the nicer finish due to the absence of wiring, eliminating the need for unsightly cables running around doorways or concealed in unappealing plastic trunking. Additionally, there is no need to drill holes through walls. This also results in a quicker installation time, causing minimal disruption for you.
Winner: Wireless
Conclusion
The fact is that if setup correctly, both traditional wired alarms and newer wireless alarm systems function reliably and perform their jobs properly to secure your home or business.
For homes and small commercial buildings without existing wiring, a wireless intruder alarm system may be the best option. Larger buildings, or buildings with many access points, should opt for a wired intruder alarm system.
Armed with the knowledge of both wired and wireless intruder alarm systems, discover how our Smart Alarm System and Policed Response System can protect your home and business by clicking here. (https://coltsecurity.co.uk/services/intruder-alarms/)
