Burglar alarms: FAQs

Thinking of getting a burglar alarm installed? Burglar alarms are a vital security feature, giving you and your loved ones peace of mind whilst protecting your home and belongings.

Below, we’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions about burglar alarms so you can make an informed decision on which model is the right fit for you.

Once you decide what you’re looking for, find a burglar alarm installer to request a quote.

Which burglar alarm system is best?

Which burglar alarm you choose will depend on a range of factors, such as the size and layout of your property, your budget, and the level of security you’re looking to get.

When you’re considering which intruder alarm to opt for, there are a range of things you should consider.

Do you want a wired or wireless burglar alarm system?

Wired systems are generally more reliable, because they’re harder to hack and aren’t affected by environmental factors and interferences. They’re also lower maintenance because they don’t require battery changes.

However, wired home security systems are usually more difficult to install, as installation includes running wires through your walls and ceilings. This means that, once installed, they’re not easy to move. They also tend to cost more to install.

On the other hand, wireless alarms are usually easier to install, as they don’t require wiring. They can be moved, making them a good choice for people who are renting. They’re less expensive to install.

However, they’re also less reliable as they’re affected by interference issues that can lead to false or missed alarms. With wireless home alarm systems, you need to change batteries manually, which is also a hassle.

Do you want a burglar alarm that comes with a monitoring system?

Some home security systems come with monitoring services which alert the police (or a private security company) when your alarm goes off. Without this add-on service, your alarm will simply sound, relying on you, a neighbour or a passer-by to call the police.

What kind of sensors do you want for your burglar alarm?

When it comes to burglar alarm sensors, you could opt for:

• Motion sensors (that detect movement in the area they cover)
• Door and window sensors (that detect when they’re opened or closed)
• Vibration sensors (that detect vibrations caused when someone attempts to break through a wall, ceiling or floor)
• Glass break sensors (that detect the sound of breaking glass)
• Pressure sensors (that detect the pressure of someone walking across them)
• Panic buttons (that can trigger the alarm, in case of an emergency)

Which you choose will depend on your home’s specific needs. For example, glass break sensors are great when placed next to large windows or sliding glass doors.

What additional features are you looking for?

There are a range of additional features you can get with your intruder alarm. Most alarms include a keypad, but there are lots of other feature you can opt for as well, including:

• Smartphone app integration with app notification features
• Smart home compatibility
• Remote access

These can give you added control and convenience, and are worth considering before you buy your alarm. Always make sure you research and read reviews before you choose a security alarm system. Once you have, a skilled burglar alarm installer can fit your new alarm for you. Simply click below to request a quote today.

What is the cost of installing a burglar alarm?

The cost of installing a burglar alarm will vary depending on the model, the size of your property, and your choice of add-ons.

Wired burglar alarms tend to cost between £300 and £500 for a basic model, but higher-end systems can go up to anywhere between £1,000 and £2,500, or even more.

On the other hand, wireless systems are cheaper. Basic models cost between £100 and £300, with high-end systems ranging between £500 and £2,000+.

The complexity of your installation might impact on labour costs, whilst certain systems have monthly or yearly monitoring costs. We recommend you do your research before you buy. Speak to a skilled burglar alarm installer to get started today.

Do burglar alarms really work?

Intruder alarms are effective, as they act as a visible deterrent for burglars who are more likely to opt for a home without a security system. They also alert you and your neighbours to the break-in, allowing you to contact the police faster. Lastly, they can also give you peace of mind that your home is protected.

This doesn’t guarantee 100% protection though, as burglars may still try and break in. False alarms can also be a nuisance.

However, if you make sure you choose a good quality system, get your alarm installed properly and maintain it regularly, then your burglar alarm will be an valuable tool in protecting your property.

Do dummy alarm boxes deter burglars?

Dummy boxes are alarm boxes that look like functioning alarms, but that don’t actually have any security features. They can definitely act as an obstacle, putting off burglars looking for an easy target.

However, professional burglars know how to spot a fake system, and will probably not be deterred by your dummy alarm. This means that, though cheaper than investing in a proper alarm system, you shouldn’t rely on a dummy intruder alarm system to protect your property.

Which is better CCTV or burglar alarms?

CCTV is useful because it can provide you with evidence of a break-in, making it really effective in areas that are at a high risk of crime. If you feel you need constant surveillance on your property, then CCTV might be the better option.

Ideally, a combination of the two would be the best security solution. If this isn’t possible, and if your primary concern is protecting your property, then a burglar alarm system should be your priority.

For other security tips, check out our how to improve your home’s security blog. Whatever you choose, always pick a reputable company. Speak to a security specialist today to find out more.

How do burglars disable alarms?

Unfortunately, some skilled burglars can disable or bypass your alarm system.

They can do this by:

1. Cutting the wires that connect your house alarm system to the power source
2. Use devices that disrupt the signal on wireless alarm systems
3. Remove the batteries from your alarm to disable it
4. Override the control panel to disable the system
5. Guess or hack your alarm’s password to disable it

This doesn’t mean that alarm systems are easy to disable, or that burglars are always successful in disabling alarms through the above methods. High-end alarm systems are harder to hack, making them better deterrents.

Does a burglar alarm reduce insurance?

Yes! Generally speaking, burglar alarms often reduce your insurance premiums. This is because your insurance company will consider themselves less likely to have to pay out on a claim, since having an alarm reduces the chances of a burglary.

Not all insurance companies offer discounts for homes with burglar alarms, so make sure you check with them. They might require your alarm to be installed and monitored by a professional company in order for you to qualify for a discount, so keep this in mind as well.

Burglar alarms are an important security feature, acting as an effective deterrent for opportunistic thieves. When it comes to picking a model, consider what sensors and features you want, and whether you want a wireless or wired system.

Once you decide what you’re looking for, speak to a skilled burglar alarm installer to request a quote. Or, read our security tips blog for more ways to protect your home from intruders.