A home security system is a great way to automate one’s home while giving the entire family peace of mind. However, it can be difficult and costly to have a security company install an entire security system because a great deal of wiring will need to be done behind the walls at the same time.

The answer to this is a self-installed wireless home security system. It is a rather easy project to accomplish in a weekend if one knows the steps to follow. In addition, a wireless system precludes the need for extensive new wiring within the home.

Benefits of a Home Security System

A home security system has many benefits besides the first obvious one, which is:

• Increased peace of mind. Of course, this is particularly important for senior citizens who continue to live independently. Both they and their children will be able to rest securely knowing they are safe.
• Second, a security system can decrease the crime rate in a neighborhood and decrease the chance of break-ins in one’s home. Many people who purchase home security systems will post signs outside their front doors or in some of their lower level windows stating that they are protected. This is a serious deterrent to burglars. In fact, homes without security systems are three times more likely to be robbed than homes with systems are.
• Third, home security systems protect valuable personal belongings and personal property. Even if a burglar enters a home with a security system, he or she is likely to leave without taking anything because the alarm is ringing. In addition, this keeps people safe who are in the home at the time of the break-in.
• Fourth, many home security systems provide homeowners access to emergency help. Many wireless systems that are installed by the homeowner can be hooked up to a telephone line, which will alert emergency personnel if a breach is noted. This is particularly important for elderly individuals who cannot move around quickly or for children who are at home by themselves.
• Fifth, home security systems add to the value of a home. People prefer to move into homes that already have these systems installed because it equals more security and less work for them. This is a great selling point.

Of course, there are also benefits to choosing a wireless security system versus a wired one. The homeowner can usually install wireless systems because these systems do not require extensive professional wiring. Wireless sensors and control panels can also be placed wherever the homeowner wishes them to be because electrical wires do not limit their placements.

Tools and Materials Needed for Installation

Many wireless home security systems are sold as sets, which will include all of the electronic parts that are needed. The set will normally include:

• control panel
• wireless motion detectors
• wireless door and window sensors, and
• remote controls.

A smoke detector may also be attached to this system. The home installer will also need a drill, a screwdriver and a circuit tester to test for electricity.

Steps to Installing a Wireless Home Security System

• First, the homeowner should choose where each sensor will be placed. He or she should also make sure that each sensor can communicate with the control panel from its location. Some sensors may only be able to communicate a short distance. The number of sensors that are installed depends on the desires of the homeowner. However, most security professionals recommend placing sensors on each main level door and window at the very least. Because sensors can be expensive, some people may wish to place motion sensors in some rooms instead of multiple window sensors.
• Second, the homeowner should install each sensor. This usually requires screwing the sensor onto the door or window jamb and screwing in the matching magnetic piece on the door or window itself. The motion detectors should be placed in the corners of rooms where they will be unobstructed. However, they should not be pointed at windows because excess heat can set off the detector.
• Finally, the control panel will need to be programmed and mounted near the main entry door. Because each brand of control panel is different, the installer should follow the instructions in the owner’s manual for this step. A phone line may also need to be plugged into the panel at this step.

Additional Tips

A few additional tips will help one’s wireless home security system be the best that it can be. First, the system should be tested every month to ensure that all of the sensors and signals are working well. If the signal strength from the sensors is not strong enough to reach the control panel, homeowners can add a signal booster. Second, those who install their own security systems should be aware that they will have to pay an additional fee each month to have a security company monitor their systems. A phone line will have to be connected to the system for this service.

Third, homeowners should make their security systems work for their needs. They could consider adding sensors on the doors and windows of their garages, particularly if they store expensive belongings there. In addition, homeowners who are good with technology should find a system that they can control remotely via a smartphone or laptop. Finally, it is wise to choose a system that allows individuals to input temporary security codes for visitors; these codes can then be deleted, and visitors never need to know the master code.

A wireless home security system is the obvious answer for anyone who wants more home security and likes to take on easy do-it-yourself projects. With a properly installed control panel, motion detectors and window and door sensors, families can feel safe whether they are at home or not. Along with the package directions that come with the new wireless system, this guide will certainly help in the installation process.

Further Reading
http://safesoundfamily.com/p/wireless-home-security/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3fVBHymybg
http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/home-automation-part-ii-how-to-install-a-wireless-home-security-system/index.html
http://www.wikihow.com/Install-a-Home-Alarm-System
http://www.prweb.com/releases/wireless-security-tips/tips-for-wireless-alarms/prweb10316479.htm
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/01/garden/01hometech.html?_r=0
http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/household-safety/security/how-to-install-home-security-system.htm
http://voices.yahoo.com/diy-guide-setting-home-security-system-2685952.html?cat=6
http://www.homesecurityinformation.com/how-to-install-a-wireless-home-security-system.htm
http://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/DIY/how-to-fit-a-wireless-burglar-alarm