Burglar Alarm Guide: 5 Types of Alarms and How They Protect Your Property

A well-designed alarm system can deter burglars, detect intruders, and trigger fast alerts to protect your house, garage, and property. At Sting Security, we design personalized home security systems that combine reliable devices, professional installation, and 24/7 monitoring service to keep your family safe. In this guide, our experts explain the main home security systems, how each device works, and the real-world pros and cons so you can choose the right coverage.

What Is a Burglar Alarm System?

A burglar alarm system is a security setup that uses sensors, a control panel, and an alert device (like a siren or app notification) to detect unauthorized entry through doors, windows, or motion, warning occupants and often connecting to a monitoring service for rapid response.

At Sting Security, every installation is handled by experts, ensuring proper coverage across doors, windows, garages, and living spaces. With real-time alerts sent straight to your phone and direct links to our monitoring centers, we provide faster intruder intervention and peace of mind for your family.

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The 5 Main Types of Burglar Alarms for Home Security

1. Wired Burglar Alarms

Traditional, robust security system architecture using hardwired sensors and zones.

How it works

Discrete cabling links door contact sensors, window contacts, motion detectors (often passive infrared), and shock sensors to a central control panel/control box with a wall keypad. When a protected entryway opens or activity is detected, the panel sends a signal to sound the siren and (if enabled) notify our monitoring centers.

Pros

• Reliability & noise immunity: Stable alarm circuits/electric circuits, minimal RF interference.
• Tamper-resistant: Cutting a cable typically triggers a tamper alert.
• Longevity: Fewer batteries to replace; great for multi-floor homes and permanent installs.

Cons

• Installation process: Requires cabling; best handled by professional installation.
• Aesthetics/retrofits: Finished walls may need careful routing (we plan paths to keep wiring hidden).

2. Wireless Burglar Alarms

Modern, flexible systems using encrypted RF transmitters.

How it works

Battery-powered security sensors, including PIR motion detectors, magnetic contact sensors, and glass-break microphones, communicate wirelessly with a central base station via a built-in radio receiver. The mobile app offers real-time alerts, user access management, and system control. A cellular backup ensures uninterrupted notifications even if your Wi-Fi connection fails.

Pros

• Fast setup: Perfect for condos, rentals, and townhomes.
• Scalable: You can add cameras, video doorbells, and new detectors as your needs grow.
• Smart features: Voice control with Alexa and Google Home, integration with smart locks, and customizable home automation routines.

Cons

• Battery maintenance: Periodic replacements on motion sensor/door contact sensor devices.
• Range/interference: Needs thoughtful coverage planning around metal or concrete.

3. Audible (Bell-Only) Alarms

Deterrence-first alarm that sounds a loud siren/chime on trigger.

How it works

In the event of unauthorized entry or motion, a high-decibel (105 dB) siren is triggered to drive away intruders and draw immediate attention.

Pros

• Cost-effective option: Lower upfront cost.
• Simple & direct: Immediate audible response; can pair with lights for extra deterrence.

Cons

• No escalation: Without a monitoring service, response relies on you or a neighbor.
• False alarms: Improper sensitivity calibration or pet interference may cause false alarms. Our team can adjust settings to ensure accurate detection and fewer disturbances.

4. Monitored Burglar Alarms (24/7 Response)

Human-backed protection via professional monitoring centers.

How it works

When an alert is triggered, monitoring operators verify the activity, contact the occupants, and dispatch police if necessary. Cellular backup and redundant communication paths ensure continuous signal transmission, even if Wi-Fi fails.

Pros

• Intruder intervention: Verified events get a prioritized response.
• Peace of mind: Someone’s watching every hour, every day.
• Insurance benefits: Many insurers recognize professionally monitored home alarm systems.

Cons

• Monthly fee: Ongoing service cost (at Sting Security, we offer clear packages, warranties, and support).

5. Smart Burglar Alarms (App-Driven & Integrated)

Connected security system with automation, video, and voice control.

How it works

Your mobile app puts you in control. You can arm or disarm your system, view live cameras, access cloud-stored footage, and automate routines. For example, when motion is detected, the system can turn on lights, lock smart locks, and begin recording. It also integrates seamlessly with Alexa-enabled devices, Google Home, and video doorbells.

Pros

• Remote control: Manage users, settings, and schedules anywhere.
• Visual verification: Security cameras, video doorbells, and cloud video storage clarify what happened.
• Expandable: Easily add extra sensors, cameras, or smart devices over time, ensuring your system grows with your home’s security needs.

Cons

• Connectivity dependence: Needs reliable Internet or a plan for cellular backup.
• Cloud plans: Make sure to understand storage tiers and subscriptions before you buy.

Need Help Choosing a Burglar Alarm System? Contact Us for Advice!

DIY vs Professional Installation: Which Fits You?

DIY security systems work well for smaller spaces, giving you full control over setup, sensor placement, and ongoing maintenance. However, for larger homes, complex layouts, or properties with multiple entry points, professional installation is often the better choice. Expertly installed systems are optimized for transmitter range, sensitivity levels, control panel placement, noise reduction, and privacy, ensuring reliable coverage and performance throughout the entire property.

At Sting Security, we take the guesswork out of setting up a burglar alarm. Our team handles everything from choosing the right sensors for your doors, windows, and entryways to placing your control panel where it delivers the strongest coverage. By relying on our professional installation, you gain a reliable, customized home security system backed by local expertise and ongoing support.

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Why Use a Burglar Alarm For Your Home 

• Deterrence: A visible security system with yard signs, a smart siren alarm, and outdoor security cameras sends a clear signal to potential intruders that the house is protected. Even simple video doorbells or well-placed lights make most break-ins less appealing.
• Early Detection: Well-positioned motion detectors (such as passive infrared motion sensors, magnetic detectors on windows and doors, or a glass-break microphone) catch suspicious activity in real-time. These devices link back to the control box or base station, triggering instant alerts.
• Awareness: Real-time app notifications, combined with an audible alarm and visual video clips from cameras, keep you aware of what’s happening. In monitored setups, our operators can contact the police immediately for faster intruder intervention.
• Lower Risk & Cost: A professionally installed home security system not only reduces the chance of loss but can also lower long-term costs by improving insurance rates. Flexible packages, extended warranties, and optional subscriptions for cloud storage or cellular backup ensure you’re covered every hour of the day.

Home Security Systems: How Effective Are They in Protecting Your Home?

Frequently Asked Questions About Burglar Alarms

How much does a burglar alarm cost?

The cost of a home security system varies based on factors like the size of your home, the number of motion detectors and cameras, and whether you choose a DIY setup or professional installation. At Sting Security, we offer flexible, transparent pricing and customizable packages, so you get the protection you need without paying for what you don’t.

Do smart burglar alarms work with home automation?

Absolutely! Smart alarms connect with Alexa, video doorbells, lights, and other smart features. Using smart home automation, you can program your system so that when the control box receives a suspicious signal, it automatically turns on exterior lights, locks your doorbell-linked smart locks, and records video for storage.

Can burglar alarms really lower my insurance costs?

Yes, many insurance providers acknowledge that professionally monitored home security systems reduce risk. By investing in trusted equipment, extended warranties, and active subscriptions for video storage and monitoring, you’re seen as less likely to file claims. As a result, your security system can help lower premiums and offset long-term costs.

How can I reduce false alarms?

Proper calibration is essential for reliable performance. Our technicians fine-tune motion detector sensitivity, configure key fob and keypad settings, and position sensors to avoid false triggers from pets or HVAC systems. We also provide practical maintenance tips, from checking batteries and power connections to reviewing your system subscription for the latest feature updates.

Sting Security: Your Trusted Security Partner in the Greater Montreal

At Sting Security, we design personalized home security packages with the leading security system products, precise coverage, and smooth professional installation. Our team configures your keypad, trains users, optimizes settings, and supports you long after day one.

Ready to protect your home? Book a security audit. We’ll size your home alarm system, recommend the best options, and activate 24/7 monitoring so your family and your property stay secure! 

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