Repair or replace – the latest on how to deal with ageing security systems

As with all electronics, security systems will age and suffer from wear and tear.

Unlike other electronics, a security system needs to be operational at all times because your safety is in the balance. So realistically, how long should your security system last and when should you call in experts to either repair or replace it?

Charnel Hattingh, head of marketing and communications for Fidelity Services Group, said the current life span for consumer electronics is around four and a half years.
“We do, however, see a trend in security that people tend to keep their alarm system for an average of seven years. Electronic components and cables age and deteriorate, which causes unreliable behaviour.”

She suggested repairing and maintaining the peripheral devices, such as passive infrared detectors or outdoor beams, for the first four and a half years and then considering an upgrade.

“This not only improves reliability but also features as technology improves,” she said.

But what are homeowners facing cost-wise to replace rather than repair?

Hattingh said it’s important to remember that few suppliers still do component-level repairs. The component will either be replaced or exchanged.

“In terms of cost, a warranty covers most devices for an initial period, which is typically one year. In this period, there is no cost to the end user for repair or replacement unless the failure is due to lightning or power-related issues.

“As the supplier, we need to weigh the cost of shipping products internationally for repair versus the replacement cost. In most cases, we do get a small allowance from suppliers in the form of an oversupply to cover in-warranty failures. Nowadays, out-of-warranty failure means buying a new device which will be more cost-effective.”

She said if you are moving into a new house; it is not always easy to know the age of the security system already installed.

“We do a full system check before we link any new homeowner as a customer. We must do this to make sure you do not have an overactive alarm system. If the security professional finds the system is outdated or discontinued, or there is no support available, I would highly recommend replacing it.”

“At the end of the day, an alarm system is only effective if it is reliable. Speak to a professional and ask about your options on repairing versus replacing. You need to weigh up the cost of the repair, how long the repaired part will last compared to a new part, and so on. Your safety is worth investing in,” Hattingh concluded.