If you live in Queensland, you might have seen the recent Nine news story promoting cheap home security systems—specifically wireless motion sensor alarms—as a way to deter would-be intruders. Battery operated, button activated and simple to install and use, it is easy to see the appeal of these DIY home security systems. However, they do have some downsides worth considering.
Before you decide to go the cheap motion sensor alarm route, read on. We’ve outlined the potential pitfalls and limitations of DIY home security systems. You might just decide that it really does pay to seek the advice of a professional!
Cheap Home Security Alarms have limited battery life
One of the most common complaints we hear about cheap wireless motion sensor alarms is their extremely short battery life. Do a quick online search and you’ll uncover countless product reviews bemoaning the constant need to replace batteries. With today’s hectic lifestyle, it’s an inconvenience most of us could do without.
They’re easy for intruders to disable
Cheap wireless motion sensor alarms are very easy to install in your home. Unfortunately, this also makes them very easy for intruders to quickly remove and disable. They might do this with a screwdriver, water, or simply by smashing the alarm on the ground.
They’re not much use if you’re not at home
The premise of this type of DIY home security alarm is that it makes a lot of noise, alerting you to an intruder’s presence. Ideally, they’ll be scared off by the alarm or your appearance. If not, you can quickly call the police.
However, as there’s no outside siren, the alarm might not be loud enough to alert neighbours if you’re out. Most savvy criminals will also be able to quickly find the motion sensor alarm—often in a highly visible position—and disable it.
Cheap motion sensor alarms might not meet Australian security standards
Cheap home security alarms purchased online or in hardware stores may not be engineered to meet Australian security standards. Cheap materials and manufacture, with very little in the way of quality control, results in a product that is less durable and reliable.Meaning it will need to be replaced more often than a professional system that’s built to last.
Nobody is monitoring your alarm
At Four Walls, we offer an optional alarm monitoring service, ensuring someone turns up to investigate when your security alarm is triggered. With a cheap, DIY alarm, there is no monitoring and no guarantee anyone will hear your alarm if you’re out. And if they do, there’s a good chance they’ll ignore it.
DIYers might not install alarms correctly
Homeowners are lacking the experience, knowledge and training of security industry professionals. This means they might not know how best to position motion sensor alarms in their home. There will also be a difference in installation quality between a professional installer and a DIYer. This, in turn, will impact how the alarm functions.
The design can be unattractive
On a purely aesthetic level, cheap home security alarms can be quite clunky and detract from your home’s décor. Our consultants are able to suggest more streamlined, subtle options to integrate into your living spaces.
They’re more susceptible to false triggers
All alarms, if not regularly serviced and maintained, can be susceptible to false triggers. However, the likelihood of false alarms increases for bargain basement home security alarms.
The sensors might not work in certain conditions
Unfortunately, periods of extreme heat can wreak havoc with your alarm’s motion sensors. This can be a problem if you live in steamy Queensland and leave the house locked up while you head off to the beach over summer…
In conclusion? Cheap, DIY home security alarms are certainly a good interim solution if your budget won’t stretch to a professionally installed and monitored alarm system. They are infinitely better than no alarm at all. However, as outlined above, they have numerous limitations. To determine the best security option for your home or business, call us on 1300 367 233 for an obligation-free chat.
