Simple alarm systems from hardware stores or supermarkets rarely provide adequate protection. This is also shown by test results from Stiftung Warentest. For its June 2017 issue, the foundation tested five sets of self-installing alarm systems priced between 179 and 440 euros – with very poor results. “Self-installed alarm systems were inconclusive in testing,” concluded product testers. Only the set from the manufacturer Abus was rated “satisfactory” and thus achieved acceptable results.
“With each set, thieves can easily rip the alarm panels off the walls,” the inspectors complained, among others. “Additionally, some motion detectors can be compromised by crawling.” Auditors saw another serious point of criticism in the fact that some systems shut down unnoticed when the battery was low. Without the owner realizing it, there is no longer any protection.
Additionally, all products tested were highly susceptible to false alarms. “In professional systems, there are technical solutions to prevent false alarms,” says Stiftung Warentest. “Before citizens enter an alarm-protected surveillance area, they must disarm the system.” This function was not present on the self-installation devices tested, meaning people or pets could easily trigger the loud alarm by accident.
If this results in a police operation, it could be very expensive. “If neighbors alert the police, there is a risk of running costs,” the testers warned and recommended: “For the initial stage, it is advisable to program the system so that it only triggers a silent alarm and calls a mobile phone.”
To ensure that the technology works reliably, you should contact a specialist. This takes care of the planning and installation and can ensure the reliable and long-term functioning of modern technology. You can also assign a professional to perform ongoing technology maintenance.
Systems installed by a professional are much more expensive – depending on how many windows and doors need to be secured and which system you choose, industry experts say you should expect to pay two to three times the cost of installing an alarm system yourself.
Additionally, you can seek expert support from the start. For example, the police offer free on-site consultations where experienced officers provide advice on how theft protection in your home can be improved sensibly and inexpensively. You can find security experts and specialist companies from your area on the police website k-einbruch.de.
