Whether you want to protect your business or your residence, you definitely want to be on the cutting edge.
The good news is, you have a security system. The bad news is, it’s a jumble of cables and wires straight out of a bad 80’s sci fi movie that lead to an ugly blinking keypad on the wall. Maybe you know how to use it, maybe you don’t. Regardless, it’s time for an upgrade, maybe an alarm takeover, but you’re just not quite sure what that means.
One of the best ways to update alarm systems is to do what’s called an alarm takeover – don’t worry, it’s a simple and painless process. The alarm system is simply upgraded with a more modern keypad while utilizing the existing wiring. That way, you get the benefits of the latest alarm technologies and features without having to rip out the old one and start from scratch. It’s cheaper than installing a brand new system, too.
A Word on Hardwired Security Systems
Your hardwired security system is most likely a pre-installed, professionally personalized series of sensors and monitors. Contrary to popular belief, a hard-wired system cannot be disabled by simply cutting any old wire (or even just the red one) – that just trips the alarm anyway. There aren’t any batteries you need to replace on a regular basis, and apart from the initial installation, it’s a relatively low-cost system.
Upgrading with an Alarm Takeover
Taking over an alarm system is a fairly simple process. For the sensors and wiring, it’s mainly just a repair job – only the broken elements are replaced. The heart of the takeover happens in two places: the old metal box where your control panel sits, and the ugly old keypad on the wall. The outdated panel in your box is replaced with one that matches the new keypad, linking your old sensors to a new interface. Your new keypad often uses cellular communication to talk to your smartphone, allowing you to control your alarm system through a simple app.
New Features
The new touchscreen keypad allows for brand new features on top of the original’s basic functions. You can set up delays and schedules to automatically activate your security system, either when you leave for the day or want to turn in for the night. You’ll also be able to connect your security system to your home automation system like Amazon Alexa or Google Home, allowing you to use voice commands to arm or disarm your alarm system as well as your lights.
Going Wireless
A hardwired to wireless alarm takeover is possible, allowing you to add wireless sensors or keypads to your existing system. In a wireless takeover, your door and window sensors are routed into a wireless translator that sends the signals to a wireless touchscreen keypad. Some sensors can’t be translated safely, though – while motion and smoke detectors will technically integrate with your new wireless panel, they run a fairly high risk of blowing its fuse because they draw too much power. If you want anything more than door and window sensors, you don’t want a wireless system.
Get an Alarm Takeover with Safe and Sound
Safe and Sound Security wants your new system to be reliable and last as long as possible, and we’re ready to help you move your antiquated alarm system to the wireless world. As California’s best local hardwired security system installers, we’ve been doing this kind of thing for nearly 10 years with a customer-oriented approach to securing our clients’ homes and businesses. Whether you know you need a takeover from the best hardwired security system integrators and installers right now or just want a little more information before activating a hardwired alarm, give us a call and we’ll give you a free consultation.
