How long should a home alarm system last?

Author: Dortha Walsh  |  Last update: Monday, March 10, 2025

The expected lifespan for consumer electronics is four to five years. However, according to Fidelity-ADT, many homeowners keep their alarm systems for around seven years. As security systems age, they become less reliable and may not provide the same level of protection as they did when first installed.

What is the lifespan of an alarm system?

Most experts say the average lifespan of a wired security system is about ten years, and once it passes this mark, there is a high chance that the system will not function reliably. It also means that some companies will charge higher prices for repairing the older, out-of-date system.

How often should you change your house alarm?

Aim to change your burglar alarm batteries every three to five years. Most modern alarms come with a button which can test the life within your existing battery and inform you if it requires replacing.

When should an alarm system be replaced?

Your home security system's age is a significant indicator of when it needs to be replaced. The average life span of a home security system is 10 to 15 years. Once it starts nearing this point, you might want to consider getting home security upgrades.

How long do wired alarm systems last?

Some parts of your security system, like the wiring, can last for 50 to 70 years if installed correctly. However, due to the ever-evolving nature of technology, security cameras, digital video recorders, and software systems may become outdated or experience early failure.

Choosing the Best Security System in 2025 | The Ultimate Guide to Home Security Systems

Should I get my house alarm serviced?

Overall, it is incredibly important to service your intruder alarm system at least once a year to ensure that your commercial or domestic property is fully protected and that it will respond accordingly to any situation to protect those around you as well as your valuable belongings.

Which home alarm system is best?

The Best Home Security Systems of 2025
  • ADT - Best Equipment and Professional Monitoring.
  • SimpliSafe - Best Home Security Video Monitoring.
  • Vivint - Best Professional Installation.
  • Alder Security - Best Professional Monitoring Response.
  • Cove - Most Affordable DIY System.
  • Frontpoint - Best Customer Service and Support.

Can an electrician fix a house alarm?

Professional electricians with the necessary training can service a home alarm system. A qualified tradesperson can repair server faults and resolve other electrical issues. Unless you have previous experience working with electrical alarm systems, we recommend leaving service and maintenance work to the professionals.

How do I know if my house alarm is going off?

Most home security alarm systems don't just have an alarm - they also have a strobe light located at the front of the property. If an alarm has been triggered, the light will flash until the disarm/rearm code is entered into the keypad, even if the audible alarm has stopped.

How long should house alarms last?

Alarms fitted to your home/business or vehicle should not become a source of nuisance to your neighbours, you have a legal responsibility to ensure that any alarm activated should ring for: a maximum 20 minutes – home/business; and. your vehicle alarm should have a 5 minute cut-out device fitted.

How much should an alarm service cost?

Annual Service Contracts

This can be a more cost-effective option, particularly for monitored alarm systems. Cost: Annual service contracts typically cost between £80 and £200 per year, depending on the complexity of your alarm system and the frequency of the maintenance visits.

How often should you upgrade your alarm system?

You should upgrade your security system every five to 10 years because technology evolves rapidly. Regular upgrades ensure that your system remains effective in protecting your property.

How do I know if my house alarm battery needs replacing?

If the keypad for your home alarm system starts beeping, it's a sign that the power supply is low and the battery might need to be replaced. The keypad may beep infrequently at first, but it will beep more consistently as the power supply drains.

Do people still use wired alarm systems?

Wired security systems may have already become a rarity in today's home security market, but they're not completely phased out. Especially with our top-pick wired security systems that offer a mix of wireless and wired equipment, you can still get your money's worth.

How often do ADT batteries need to be replaced?

We recommend changing all your wireless sensor batteries on an annual basis or as directed by your ADT system.

How do you test a house alarm?

6 Easy Steps on How to Test your Security Alarm System
  1. Set up the test with your monitoring station. ...
  2. Arm your security system. ...
  3. Trigger the alarm. ...
  4. Let the alarm go for one full minute. ...
  5. After one minute, turn the alarm off and reset it. ...
  6. Lastly, talk with your monitoring station.

How much does a home security alarm cost?

Home security systems can start at $150 for a basic DIY alarm kit and can cost as much as $2,000 or more for a comprehensive, professionally installed system.

Can I reset my house alarm?

You're going to need to cut off the system's power supply momentarily in order to reset it. That means unplugging the transformer from the wall outlet. There are transformers included in both wired and wireless systems, and they're usually the only component that actually plugs into a wall outlet.

How much is ADT a month?

Let's recap – ADT packages start at $269. The monthly fee for professional monitoring ranges from $24.99 to $49.99. The installation fee is optional, but starts at $100. There's also a three-year contract if you get your system installed by a technician.

How much is a full house alarm system?

The starting house alarm supply and install cost is £500 +VAT. The price may fluctuate depending on the size of your property and the sophistication of the system installed. An electrician may be required if you choose a wired system. A burglar alarm installation takes approximately one to two days.

Does ADT call the police?

If the alarm is verified, an ADT agent sends the alarm information to the 911 center for dispatch. If your session expires, we will only call your designated emergency contacts that have not been notified via Alarm Messenger. If we still do not get a response, we will dispatch first responders.

How long should a house alarm last?

Low Battery Indicators. Most manufacturers recommend changing your system's battery every 3–5 years. Newer devices may last up to 7 years. If you don't know when your system was last serviced, start looking for a replacement battery now.

Does an alarm system reduce home insurance?

Most companies will offer you an immediate discount once you tell them that you installed an alarm system. Call up your insurance provider and ask about the requirements your security system must meet to help save you money.

Do I need a landline for my alarm system?

Do home security systems need a phone line? Home security systems do not need a phone line. Modern security systems can use cellular signals, internet connection, or VoIP to send alerts to their respective monitoring centers.

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