Home security systems?

[cwa107]

I just moved into a new home in a development in a semi-rural area. Although there isn't a very high crime rate here, I'm worried because the new house has a partially exposed, walk-out basement with a door and two full-sized windows in the back. The house is also situated on a fairly private lot with no neighbors to the right or behind the house.

The bedrooms are on the 2nd floor and I really don't think I'd know any better if someone were to smash in a window or jimmy the door.

Now, I've already done the obvious - installed double-keyed deadbolts on both back doors and also picked up a "secured by ADT" yard sign and window stickers from eBay.

I think a full-blown, wired & monitored security system might be overkill based on the area I live in, but am wondering if anyone has any experience with some of the wireless solutions out there. Also, does anyone know if an existing, exterior light fixture (not a floodlight) can be converted to motion-sensing?

Any suggestions or recommendations would be very much appreciated.

[jl_ss]

Originally posted by cwa107
I just moved into a new home in a development in a semi-rural area. Although there isn't a very high crime rate here, I'm worried because the new house has a partially exposed, walk-out basement with a door and two full-sized windows in the back. The house is also situated on a fairly private lot with no neighbors to the right or behind the house.

The bedrooms are on the 2nd floor and I really don't think I'd know any better if someone were to smash in a window or jimmy the door.

Now, I've already done the obvious - installed double-keyed deadbolts on both back doors and also picked up a "secured by ADT" yard sign and window stickers from eBay.

I think a full-blown, wired & monitored security system might be overkill based on the area I live in, but am wondering if anyone has any experience with some of the wireless solutions out there. Also, does anyone know if an existing, exterior light fixture (not a floodlight) can be converted to motion-sensing?

Any suggestions or recommendations would be very much appreciated.

We are in much the same situation - safe neighborhood but large wooded areas surround us. I installed a wireless security system with components by Magnavox about 7 years ago. I'm not sure if Magnavox is still in the wireless security business, though. I have door/window sensors only on the exterior doors and 5 motion detectors that cover the first floor and basement. In the event that someone forces a door or comes through a window on the first floor/basement, the alarm will sound. It's a minimal system that provides enough protection to make us feel at ease.

[cwa107]

Originally posted by jl_ss


We are in much the same situation - safe neighborhood but large wooded areas surround us. I installed a wireless security system with components by Magnavox about 7 years ago. I'm not sure if Magnavox is still in the wireless security business, though. I have door/window sensors only on the exterior doors and 5 motion detectors that cover the first floor and basement. In the event that someone forces a door or comes through a window on the first floor/basement, the alarm will sound. It's a minimal system that provides enough protection to make us feel at ease.

Thanks - that's exactly the kind of testimonial I was looking for. How often do you need to change the batteries? Also, does the system tell you if a component stops checking in (i.e. the batteries are dead) or does it just sound the alarm?

[jcantanixon]

Originally posted by cwa107
I just moved into a new home in a development in a semi-rural area.

Congrats on the new home!

I'm keeping an eye on this thread because I've been semi-looking for something like this as well. Never thought of putting the ADT sign and stickers out.

[cwa107]

Originally posted by jcantanixon


Congrats on the new home!

I'm keeping an eye on this thread because I've been semi-looking for something like this as well. Never thought of putting the ADT sign and stickers out.

Thanks. We had a fairly small late-80's split-level that was our first home. Now that our 14-month-old is walking, that house was a real PITA. We bought an almost new, traditional-style 4-bedroom home (this time with a nice, big 2-car garage ). It's really everything we've always wanted, but I will miss the 15-year 4.25% fixed mortgage I left to get into a 30-year 6.375% fixed for twice the amount financed. Fortunately, we made enough money on the old house to put down a full 20% in cash - so no PMI!

[jl_ss]

Originally posted by cwa107


Thanks - that's exactly the kind of testimonial I was looking for. How often do you need to change the batteries? Also, does the system tell you if a component stops checking in (i.e. the batteries are dead) or does it just sound the alarm?

I change the batteries once a year. The batteries may last longer, I just always change those at the same time I change my programmable thermostat batteries. The system starts beeping when a sensor stops reporting in and the main control box indicates which one it is. I also have the window sticker and yard sign but do not really have the monitoring service.

[johnabrown]

I have an ADT system and the last battery (replaced last year) was over 8 years old before it gave up. The alarm system is smart enough to tell you when the battery is dead.

[cwa107]

Originally posted by jl_ss


I change the batteries once a year. The batteries may last longer, I just always change those at the same time I change my programmable thermostat batteries. The system starts beeping when a sensor stops reporting in and the main control box indicates which one it is. I also have the window sticker and yard sign but do not really have the monitoring service.

Thanks again, jl_ss. I was actually able to find a Magnavox system (rather cheaply too!). I'm thinking that might be the route to go.

[cwa107]

Originally posted by johnabrown
I have an ADT system and the last battery (replaced last year) was over 8 years old before it gave up. The alarm system is smart enough to tell you when the battery is dead.

As I understand it, you can keep the ADT system even if you don't subscribe to the monitoring service, is that true? I think they give you a pretty deep discount on the system if you sign up for a 3-year contract. I was seriously considering that route, but don't really want another monthly bill.

[jcantanixon]

Originally posted by cwa107


As I understand it, you can keep the ADT system even if you don't subscribe to the monitoring service, is that true? I think they give you a pretty deep discount on the system if you sign up for a 3-year contract. I was seriously considering that route, but don't really want another monthly bill.

I'm not 100% on how it works for residential, but our office had an ADT alarm and they didn't come remove it when we shut off the monthly monitoring. I don't know how long we had it before we shut off the monitoring...so they may or may not have been a contract involved.

I just read that and realized I was no help at all

[tangotango99]

Originally posted by cwa107


Thanks again, jl_ss. I was actually able to find a Magnavox system (rather cheaply too!). I'm thinking that might be the route to go.

Do you have the web-address?

[cwa107]

Originally posted by tangotango99
Do you have the web-address?

I just Googled "magnavox security system" and came up with this:

http://www.homecontrols.com/cgi-bin/...ecurity-System

$229 isn't bad from what I've been seeing. I will likely shop around a bit more and let you know if I find it cheaper.

[jl_ss]

Originally posted by cwa107


I just Googled "magnavox security system" and came up with this:

http://www.homecontrols.com/cgi-bin/...ecurity-System

$229 isn't bad from what I've been seeing. I will likely shop around a bit more and let you know if I find it cheaper.

That's the system. Magnavox offers a monitoring service but I didn't go with it. The system can be programmed to call up to 4 phone numbers if the alarm is set off - I set ours to call my office during the day if it goes off. I bought the basic system and then bought additional motion and door sensors and remotes/sirens. I got it here: smarthome but it looks like they discontinued it. The Magnavox site is here: Magnavox.

[2muchfun]

Here is my previous 'Home Security' who, sadly, departed us last year.

http://www.hondapilot.org/gallery/50...2rott.bmp?5513

[2muchfun]

And here is my New Home security system. Her bonus features are loving companion, love/care for animals and responsibility lesson for the kids. And someone for me to talk to when Im 'in the dog house'.

http://www.hondapilot.org/gallery/50...2shep.bmp?8243