How to choose an alarm for your home or business
An alarm isn't just a siren. It's a system of detection, communication and response. These are the decisions that make the difference.
1. Wireless or wired
Professional wireless alarms install without building work, with encrypted communication and long-life batteries. Wired systems make sense in new builds or where cabling is already in place. Today most homes and businesses choose wireless.
2. Who receives the alert
- Self-monitoring: alerts go to your app and the people you choose.
- Monitoring centre: a security company receives the alert, verifies it and responds. Recommended for businesses and valuable properties left empty for long periods.
3. The right sensors
- Door and window opening.
- Motion (with pet-immune options).
- Smoke, flood and temperature: the same alarm protects against technical incidents.
- Outdoor sensors for terraces and gardens.
4. Verification
Detectors with photo or video let you know within seconds whether an alarm is real before anyone is called out. It's one of the most useful advances.
5. Redundant communications
The alarm must be able to alert you even if internet or power is cut: Ethernet, WiFi and SIM card, with battery backup.
6. Integration
The alarm can show your cameras in the same app, arm itself when you leave and work with home automation (presence simulation, lights off when armed).
Security grades
Alarm equipment is classified in grades under the European standard EN 50131, from lower to higher resistance to tampering. For a home or small shop, grade 2 is usually enough; higher risks require more. If your insurer asks for a specific grade, it's worth knowing before you choose.
A layered design
- Perimeter: contacts on doors and windows and outdoor detectors. They alert before anyone gets in.
- Interior: motion detectors in through-routes.
- Deterrence: indoor and outdoor sirens, and lights that switch on.
- Verification: photos or video to confirm what's happening.
Arming modes
- Full: when nobody is in.
- Night or partial: perimeter and ground floor only, so you sleep protected.
- By zone: useful in businesses, for example stockroom armed while the shop is open.
Pets and false alarms
False alarms lead people to stop using the system. They're avoided with pet-immune detectors, good positioning, away from draughts, radiators and windows in direct sun, and properly set entry delays.
Users and codes
- One code or fob per person, so you know who arms and disarms.
- Temporary codes for cleaning or maintenance staff.
- A duress code that disarms and silently raises an alert.
Maintenance
- The system tells you when a sensor battery is low: replace it straight away.
- Test the siren and communications at least once a year.
- Review the user list and delete anyone who should no longer have access.
What to ask before signing up
- Do I own the equipment, or is it tied to a subscription?
- What happens if I change provider?
- Who receives alerts and how are they verified?
- Does it integrate with my cameras, automation or water shut-off?
Frequently asked questions
Can I install the alarm myself?
Consumer kits exist, but professional installation ensures correct coverage, alert configuration and maintenance.
Which systems do you use?
Usually Ajax, which integrates Dahua and Uniview cameras into the same app.
Can a wireless alarm be jammed?
Professional systems detect jamming attempts and raise an alert, and use several communication paths. It's one of the differences from cheap consumer kits.
Can I install one in a rented flat?
Yes. A wireless system installs without building work and you can take it with you when you move.
Connect · Protect · Automate · Control
Tell us about your project
We look at what you need and propose a complete solution: one company, one point of contact, one project.
- Phone+376 356 249
- Emailinfo@knxandorra.com