Why You Need Home Alarm Wiring?
Home Alarm wiring is of paramount importance to understand before you install a home alarm system, especially if you are doing it from a do-it-yourself kit. Understanding wiring and gauges is the primary issue here. Using a 4 conductor wire is recommended over a 2 conductor wire since many devices run better on 4 conductor cables. Although the cost difference is nominal the performance difference could be phenomenal.
If you have sirens in the circuit of the wiring system, it is always recommended to use the 4 gauge wire since they would also have power transformers that dissipate high power in short bursts. In case you are using a 2 conductor wire, in that case double it up and make it a 4 conductor cable. Wire rated 22/4 is the best to use in these cases and it can be freely used for all detection devices and all sorts of inter-connects except for fire alarm systems. Fire alarm systems would work well with it but the standard is to use red jacketed wire for better identification.
The following is a list of common components of a home alarm wiring system:
Keypads = 3/4 wires (brand dependence) Modules = 3/4 wires (brand dependence) Contacts for doors and windows = 2 Motion sensors = 4 Audio glass breaking sensors = 4 Glass shock sensors = 2 Smoke detectors = 2 or 4 (model dependence) Heat detectors = 2 Gas and CO detectors = 4 Sirens = 2 Strobes = 2 Power transformer = 2 As fire detection is also a part of home alarm system, it is recommended that you use a red cased 18 ga fire wire for the installation of the same. Locally, it is known by different names and it is also normally used for home alarm wiring that involves strobes, power transformers, sirens and keypads, in case you have any fire detection devices in your home alarm system. In case you are looking forward to installing only the burglar alarm, you will not need the 18 ga fire wire. Each device in your home alarm system should be in its own zone with the exception of smoke detectors and windows. This is very important since, it becomes easier to troubleshoot the home alarm wiring system in the event of any mal-function. Also while installing the alarm wiring it is important to keep in mind the functional classifications and rig all controls into a single room or place where you have an easy access. All devices comprised in your alarm system should be wired through a fuse for each category of items. This will prevent any tripping of the entire alarm system due to any mal-function in a single component. Checking the functionality of the alarm on weekly basis would be recommended lest you find that the alarm has mal-functioned when you needed it the most. Bring in your DIY home alarm system today and enjoy the fun and benefits.
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