New homeowners are puzzled with whether they can use or upgrade the existing security system or wired alarm system kits when they move into a house with home security or alarm systems in place. ”How can I monitor these systems myself on my phone? What should I be looking for if I decide to replace the existing security system like ADT?” Here we want to solve these problems.
Table of Contents:
Existing/Wired Security Systems/Kits, Keep or Upgrade
Option 1: Use Existing Home Security/Alarm Systems
Option 2: Upgrade Existing Home Security Systems
Option 3: Replace Existing Security Systems with New Systems
Factors to Consider Whether to Use or Replace
Dealing with an existing security system when you move into a house, here is the information you might consider:
| Deal with | Existing security systems |
| Upgrade Methods | Integrate with smart home devices |
| Recommended Systems | Reolink security systems |
| Consideration | Age/endurance/service/costs |
Move into a House with Existing/Wired Security Systems/Kits, Keep or Upgrade
Many of us, quite often, bought or moved into a house that has an existing security or alarm system kits such as ADT or Honeywell wired security system or a place that comes with an unmonitored home security system.
Some are still configurable and you might accidentally arm it and set it off every now and then, toying with ideas that you might reconfigure or reprogram it to put it into good use or upgrade the alarm system by integrating with new systems.
While some of these old security systems might have been in idle for years but the cables remain in good shape.
In many scenarios, the existing security system could be used to power new home security cameras or security systems, for example, connecting Cat5 Ethernet cable to CCTV security cameras.
So the options look like:
- Use existing home security/alarm system or unmonitored home security system;
- Upgrade the system to one that can be monitored via phone apps or self-monitored;
- Abandon the existing system and replace it with a brand new system;
It's crucial knowing what you can do with existing or pre-wired home security system when moving into a house with an existing alarm or security system, especially potential benefits and risks.
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Option 1: Use Existing Home Security/Alarm system or Unmonitored Home Security System
If the existing alarm security system is still in good shape, whether it's a hardwired alarm system or wireless alarm system.
For example, a new ADT security system with cellular monitoring or landline monitoring or Honeywell security systems, signing up for the monitoring service with the monitoring service providers or companies seems like a reasonably nice way to shore up your home security.
Pros:
Using or customizing the existing infrastructure, such as PIR motion detectors, smoke detectors, heat sensors, glass break detectors, external sirens not only cut the cost of installation and equipment, minimizes troubles of running wires or installation but also help reduce monitoring burden if you are not interested in self-monitoring and prefer professional monitoring.
Cons:
The downside is that you might find yourself committed to a long-term contract, 2 or 3 years of monitoring service plus monthly monitoring fees, which varies, for example, SimpliSafe charges $14.99/month for standard monthly monitoring.
However, before going down this road, it's wise to give some thoughts to these questions, does the company has a good track record of satisfactory service and support? Do they provide all the services that you are looking for?
To avoid getting stuck with an alarm company that provides unsatisfying services, take the checklist below into account:
• Consult the service providers about the services and features included in the contract
• Read media's and users' reviews of the services and the companies
• Compare the price of security monitoring contracts that you are considering
• Negotiate with monitoring companies to tailor the existing security system services in line with your security needs
Option 2: Upgrade & Self-Monitor Existing Home Security/Alarm System
Pros:
Upgrading the existing security system to something that can be monitored via phone apps seems like a feasible solution if you don't want to be locked into a contract, paying monthly monitoring fees or having your house monitored by someone else.
Cons:
While programming or reconfiguring the existing alarm systems either wired home security systems or wireless security systems to a self-monitored home security system, for example, unmonitored ADT security system, window/door sensors, control panels or other components, might require a lot more researching, customization, technical support, networking or engineering.
Also note that some used alarm systems are still bound to valid contracts with monitoring service providers.
So, if you convert home security system to self-monitoring without offering proper notices to those companies, they may require penalty and even give you bad credits.
To avoid such troubles, you'd better cancel home security contracts properly ahead of the conversion.
How to Upgrade Hardwired Alarm Systems
We have rounded up some of the feasible methods to convert wired alarm systems to self-monitoring ones:
#1. Add a control panel: If you are looking for a control panel to integrate to your existing wireless system that uses Z-Wave, Zigbee, Insteon, X10, UPB, or A10 technology and turn it for self-monitoring, we suggest reaching out to the manufacturers first to see what options do you have.
#2. Convert wired alarm systems to wireless ones: Here is a step by step guide on how to switch your DSC system to be Wi-Fi enabled with notifications and monitoring from a phone.
#3. Integrate with smart home devices: You can DIY the existing wired home security system and use existing equipment and turn it into an unmonitored security system and integrate into your home automation by using SmartThings Smart Home Hub or HomeSeer.
Here is an enthusiastic entrepreneur dedicating himself to converting the wired alarm system into a SmartThing smart home monitoring system.
#4. Add DIY IP security systems: You are also able to choose a good security camera system for a pre-wired house, for example, a Cat 5 camera system Reolink RLK8-410B4.
#5. Turn analog systems to IP security systems: If the home security cameras are in a good working order but you might just want to remotely access the security cameras, you could upgrade the analog system into an IP security system.
Here is one example of upgrading existing home security system to IP camera system.
Takeaway: You may also refer to this helpful guide for more solutions to activate, monitor, and upgrade existing alarm security systems. And join the discussions on upgrading existing security or alarm systems in many forums, such as Reddit.
Option 3: Abandon the Existing Security System & Replace It with Brand New Systems
Pros:
If the existing security system, unfortunately, is very outdated.
It neither can be re-activated to continuously monitor your entrances nor does it have features like Smartphone-based control, home automation potentials, phasing it out and replacing it with new and modern security cameras or systems goes a long way in protecting your property.
Modern smart home security systems beef up home security like this DIY solid 4-camera setup RLK8-410B4 security system for your pre-wired house.
Especially those are packed with advanced mobile app controls, wireless sensors, or high-resolution HD smart security cameras capable of motion detection like Reolink Argus 2 wire-free camera, face recognition, motion tracking, or smart home integration like IFTTT, Alexa voice control or command.
Takeaway: Check out this post to learn more benefits and features of self-monitoring security systems.
Cons:
It surely adds up cost and increases spending on new monitoring equipment.
Use or Replace Existing Alarm Systems at Your Home: Factors to Consider
No matter what option you choose, there are various factors that you might need to weigh on when moving into a house with pre-wired or existing security systems.
Factor 1. The Age and Endurance of Existing Security Systems
Supposed that the existing alarm systems at your home have been put into use for less than 5 years, they may still function well without outdated features and you may continue using them to secure your home.
Generally speaking, the average expected endurance of a home security system is around 10 years.
If you keep using over 10-year-old alarm systems, chances are high that the alarm systems don't work properly from time to time and the monitoring companies charge your extra repair fees since the surveillance equipment is too old.
Moreover, some used analog security systems may not integrate with new IP security cameras and modern smart home devices as well.
If the systems are over 10 years old, it is best to consider their lifespans and features and decide whether to replace them or not.
Factor 2. Your Expectation and Needs for Home Security
When moving into a house with ADT systems, you may find there are multiple components like security cameras, smoke detectors, door/window motion sensors, sirens, etc.
However, all these devices may not necessarily cover your security needs.
So, before making up your mind to use existing home security systems, think about your plan for home security and evaluate whether the used ones meet your needs.
Factor 3. Services & Costs of Current Monitored Home Security System Contracts
As explained earlier, some home alarm security systems are still under contracts with monitoring companies.
To figure out whether such systems fit your home, contact the monitoring service providers and learn more details including but not limited to:
• Services included in current contracts
• Total costs like activation and monthly monitoring fees to reactive the existing alarm systems
• Termination date and renewal clauses of the current contract
• Warranties and after-sales services
Make sure that you are clear about the services and costs of the existing alarm system contracts, so as to reduce the risk of getting locked in a contract that you are not happy with.
Moving into a house installed with alarm or security systems could help cut down installation and equipment cost up front and beef up home security. Read more on safety tips when moving into a new house.
Contemplating those possible options to deal with existing and wired alarm system kits carefully and conducting thorough research before taking any further steps are always a safe call.
A factor that should be mentioned is that most of the NEW alarm systems are WIRELESS, and almost ALL of the wireless systems can be HACKED by a smart intruder, wirelessly. Some of them even broadcast the disarming code in the clear, easily captured with modern equipment. The burglar then just waltzes in and turns your whole system off.
Despite the inconvenience, for the most part, you want a fully wired system. When an old system already has the wires in place, that's a big advantage in cost.
Hi Phattius, good point! An old security system with wires in place surely help cut down the cost.
We have a hard wired system that was installed by ADT many years ago both burglar and fire at a new location for us. It is no longer being monitored and we are interested in just using it within the premise to alert us if something is wrong. We do not need phone connections, just the noise if we have an intruder or fire. Is this possible?
Hi, Cherie, you may consult the ADT support team to see if this works. And in case you need to replace your current security system with new ones, Reolink can also offer you a wide range of options. Just feel free to let me know if you need more help.
Have you looked into Konnected.io? The technology uses existing wiring/sensors to integrate into Samsung Smartthings platfrom. I did a 12 zone kit and love it.
Me and my wife moved into a home with a wired security system installed by CPI Security. we have called the security company to get the master code so we can reprogram the system and self-monitor but they did not want to give it to us. Is there a way to get the master code or reprogram it without? It is a GE R2/S1 security panel with a concord keypad. Any advice you can give would be greatly appreciated. Sorry for the long length for this question.
Hello Papi, the company offers security monitor systems with monthly fees, and they will help you to monitor your existing systems, which means that you cannot self-monitor this system.
So that's why the company stuff won't have the master code to you.
And you can replace your current systems with the DIY type security cameras, so that you can monitor your own systems without being ”watched” by others.
There are a couple of viable options with konnected systems @ konnected.io to either replace your alarm board or run in parallel with it. It does however require the use of a smart hub such as SmartThings, Home Assistant, OpenHAB or Hubitat. All DIY, no monthly fees. Shoot, you can also set it up to connect your garage doors or automatic sprinkler system.
I have a monitored wireless alarm system now and I own the box/card for the cell signal (we do not have a landline). I would like to convert to a self monitored system but was wondering if there are any that can make use of my current system hardware (was installed 3 years ago) .
Hello JC, check if you have canceled the security contract properly first. We have shared several ways on how to make sure of the existing system in Option 2 of this post and you may click here to learn more https://reolink.com/use-upgrade-existing-home-security-alarm-system/#Upgrade.
I have and old Gemini Home Security System wired to windows and doors with a motion sensor, which I want to upgrade and hook to a monitoring system. Also I have a brand new Qsee DVR with 4 HD IP cameras, which I would like to install at home to do my own monitoring. I found there are a lot of options in the market and companies try to sell what they have which is not necessarily my best option. Just I am looking for advice how to proceed. thank you
Hello roreru, you may take a look at this guide, community.smartthings DOT com/t/convert-your-wired-alarm-system-into-a-smartthings-smart-home-monitor-system-for-under-25-with-nodemcu-esp8266-2017/84285, that we have mentioned in part 2 in the post. Hope this helps.
Hello Ken, you may examine all the wired security devices around your home first to decide whether you will keep them or change them with modern ones. Then, consult the sales team of the security system brand that you are using at your home and ask them to provide more professional suggestions on how to upgrade your system and change the keypad without spending too much. Hope this helps.
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