View Full Version : Home Alarm Systems Life Span
What do you think is the acceptable average life span for a home alarm system before PIR's start malfuntioning, magnets need to be replaced and even the keypads play up.
I would have thought 10 yrs plus!
Also, where can Joe Soap buy magnets, PIR's from, so you dont have to pay a callout fee PLUS labour to simply replace a magnet.
rorz0r
12-11-2010, 10:30 AM
I like www.s4s.co.za. Very good service from them. A couple of online security shops around though. Not sure where in ct.
Cadavre777
12-11-2010, 11:24 AM
Working on an alarm system without all the documentation for all components is unwise. Also without installers notes or experience, your DIY task could be a costly exercise. An installer should advise you on how to keep the system functioning way past its warranty.
My installer advises taking out a maintenance contract. He says wires corrode, magnets corrode etc - and he cannot say how long components can last.
To pay someone to simply come to my house to replace a magnet or 2 is a waste of my money, when you add in call out fees and labour costs.
To replace keypads I agree the installer is needed.
Sharan
12-11-2010, 12:32 PM
+1 on s4s.co.za (http://www.s4s.co.za). Purchase through their website, and tell them you'd rather collect at their supplier in Cpt. They based in Montagu Gardens. They'll even give you the required manuals.
rorz0r
12-11-2010, 12:37 PM
Wires and magnets corroding? Not likely. Corrosion comes from exposure to oxygen and generally any wires in your alarm system with have the individual insulation and the comms cable insulation. Unless you have perimeter stuff all the stuff is indoors and should last a really really long time.
I'm 300m from the beach - corrosion is a problem.
rorz0r
12-11-2010, 12:57 PM
Ok then you're screwed :p How much is the maintenance contract?
Ok then you're screwed :p How much is the maintenance contract?
Its not too much really, its just the thought of paying for work that I can do in minutes
rorz0r
12-11-2010, 02:26 PM
I'm sure you could do pretty much any replacements yourself. But maybe if it's like R20 and replacing some wire might involve getting into a roof I'd maybe take it...