Can I Install My Own Window and Door Contacts for a Honeywell Security System?

You may be able to install your own window and door contacts for a Honeywell Security System. This usually depends on what type of window and door contact is being installed. The type of window and door contact generally determines how much wiring and drilling the process will involved.

When setting up a new door and window contact, the process of programming the device to the security system is usually no problem for the end user. Most users who are familiar with programming new sensors to their panel can complete this process on their own. If the user is unfamiliar with this process, they can usually complete this task with a small amount of help from a trained technician online or over the phone who can walk them through the procedure.

However, the actual physical installation of the device can prove to be more challenging for an end user. In this case, it largely depends on what type of door and window contact is being used and, if hard-wired, how far it will be placed from the security panel. Although some types of sensors are extremely easy to self-install, other projects may require some serious wiring and drilling that should only be attempted by a professional. Typically, wireless contacts are easier to install than hard-wired contacts, and surface-mount contacts are easier to install than recessed contacts.

By far, the easiest type of installation involves wireless surface-mount contacts, such as the Honeywell 5816 or the 5800MINI This type of installation involves no drilling or wiring whatsoever. Once this type of sensor has been programmed into the panel, the user can easily mount it by screwing it into the door or window frame. Alternatively, a double-sided adhesive (which is included) can be used to mount the device, making the process even easier.

Another relatively easy installation involves wireless recessed door and window contacts. These devices are inserted into a hole that is drilled into the door or window frame. Recessed contacts are slightly-more challenging to install, due to the fact that some minor drilling is involved. However, most end-users who possess a basic understanding of power tools can complete this process on their own. An example of a recessed door and window contact is the Honeywell 5818MNL.

Things potentially become challenging when hard-wired door and window contacts are involved, such as the Honeywell 944T. The problem that end users face with hard-wired contacts is the process of getting the wire from the contact to the security panel. In situations where the contact happens to be right by the security panel, this is usually not too difficult. But in cases where the wire needs to be fished carefully through several walls, an end user may have a tough time. Because of the heavy amount of drilling and complex maneuvers involved, it is usually best to leave these tasks to a professional installer.