Can I Expand Upon My Current Security System?

Yes, you can expand upon your current security system. There are many ways for you to go about doing this. You can add new sensors to the system, including security sensors and life-safety sensors. You might also add some smart home automation devices, or other accessories like cameras.

If you already have a capable alarm control panel, then it likely that you can use it to perform most of the functions of a newer or more modern alarm system. Sure, there are some features and functions only available on the most advanced and newest systems, but you may be surprised as to what an older panel can accomplish. Depending on the panel, you may be able to make some small upgrades to get your system to do exactly what you want. This is true both in terms of security and automation. Once you have your panel equipped with a communicator and activated for monitoring, then you can really get creative.

One of the most obvious things you might do is get some new sensors for your system. Perhaps you started out with some basic sensors, but you now want to increase the coverage of your home or business. You might add door and window sensors to every possible opening. Some additional motion sensors could give you better coverage of your property. Or you might integrate some glass break sensors in case an intruder smashes a window. And it's not just security sensors that you can add. You can also get life-safety and environmental sensors like smoke detectors, CO detectors, flood sensors, temperature sensors, and more. Just make sure to keep your total number of available panel zones in the back of your mind when planning.

If you want to make your life more convenient and possibly cut down on energy costs, then you might consider getting some additional Z-Wave devices. These can include useful tools like lights, locks, and thermostats. If you are not familiar with Z-Wave devices, you can control these devices remotely through an interactive service platform used with your alarm system. This can include Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. You can also establish smart scenes to have your Z-Wave devices activate respond automatically based on certain system activity and/or a set schedule. Remember that your panel will need to have a Z-Wave controller installed before you can start adding Z-Wave devices for use with your system.

Lastly, you might want to get some accessories to expand upon your system. If you upgrade to a monitoring plan that includes video surveillance, then you can start adding security cameras to monitor your home or business. There are excellent security cameras for Total Connect 2.0 and for Alarm.com, so you will have plenty of options to choose from. You can even view these cameras remotely from pretty much anywhere using the associated mobile app for your respective platform. Alarm keypads also make for a nice accessory for expanding upon a system. These devices will let you control your system from a second location in your property. Remember that you can also control your system using the Alarm.com Mobile App or the Total Connect 2.0 Mobile App. But if you want to add extra keypads, the option is certainly available.