How To Install a Home Security System

When you purchase a home security system kit you will find a complete,
detailed set of instructions to go with it.  If you have
chosen a wireless system, it does not need a professional to fit it,
and they are relatively easy to fit.

Typically, home security systems do not need a professional installer
because they don’t need to have wires running around your
home which are connected to the central control panel.

Planning
First, you need to do some planning.  You need to decide
where you want to place the various components, which windows you will
be placing the sensor on, and which rooms you will install the motion
sensors in.

The control panel should be close to your entry doors and close to an
electrical outlet.  Beware of installing the control panel in
a place where outside observers can watch you typing in your security
code.

Choose the location for the siren carefully as this must not be placed
in an area which will muffle the sound. It should be placed out of
sight of an intruder as the siren is the component they want to disable
most.

Installation
Once you have planned the location of the control panel you need to
install it at a height where it is easy to access the keypad and read
the display. Don’t place it at floor level or at a point
higher than your head.  The control panel does have a wire,
and to avoid potential tampering drill a hole through the wall behind
the panel.  If you have a monitoring system you will also need
a telephone line close to it, remember this may entail hiring a
technician to help you.  The next step is to install the
siren, once installed you will need to program the dials.
Don’t forget that the siren requires an electrical point.

Installing the sensors comes next.   You will not
only have window but door sensors to install, along with the all
important motion sensors, dotted around the premises.

Each door and window sensor consists of two parts a magnet, and a
transmitter.  The transmitter part of the sensor will be
attached to edge of the window or door frame.  The magnet part
of the unit will be placed on the opening section of door or window in
line with the transmitter, when closed they have to line up with each
other.

If your home security system comprises infrared motion sensors they
will be installed next.  These types of sensors include smoke
or fire detectors and gas emission sensors.  It is important
to install these in an area where they will get the best results.

Read the instructions that come with the equipment carefully.
Motion sensors are usually installed in either; a passage or a living
room, in a corner at the top of a wall, under the ceiling, and facing
the entry way.  Try not to place them around a
corner.  This will ensure that anyone entering this area will
break the infrared sensor and activate the siren.  These
sensors are not difficult to install and only require a few screws
which are generally provided in your kit.

Programming and Testing
Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes
to programming, plugging in each component in its turn.  The
siren needs to be connected into the control panel first, thereafter
you can program the other features of your security system into the
central control panel.  Most home security systems will
provide a worksheet which will ‘walk’ you through
the steps and prepare you for the required work.  

Once you have installed all the components and programmed the control
panel it is necessary to test the system.  This will be the
last step and the most important.  The control panel will show
a ‘test’ mode.  You need to test each and
every sensor as well as every function of the system.  If
everything works you are free and clear and can start using your new
system immediately.  If not, you will have to consult your
installation instructions and retrace your steps until you find the
fault.  Thereafter you need to test your system on a monthly
basis, doing this will make sure that your system does not fail you
when you need it most. You can rest happily assured that your system is
capable of providing you with top of the range security.