Your home is a safe haven for you and your family. You spend every moment of the day in this space, so it’s time to have a security system that fits seamlessly into what you already have set up.
If Simplisafe sounds too good to be true, then it probably is! It may sound like a perfect solution but there are things about the product and process which will help make sure that your peace of mind remains intact – while giving you peace of mind on a budget.
Discover if Simplisafe can work with your existing sensors, and learn about the benefits for homeowners who decide to make this purchase.
Can Simplisafe Work with My Existing Sensors?
SimpliSafe packages come with additional sensors to work with your existing sensors. If you have an alarm system already, these will still work for you! SimpliSafe’s base station has a cellular connection, allowing it to communicate with all of your sensors as well as SimpliSafe’s monitoring center. You may still use your SimpliSafe base station to connect to your Wi-Fi network.
The DSC Alarm System is a DIY security system that enables user to build their own customized and affordable alarm. Simplisafe, on the other hand, can be integrated into an existing smart home network with its use of Envisalink4 (EVL4). The EVL 4 was created by 3rd party hardware device manufacturer and simplifies building an alarm for your house or business in just minutes.
However, it does not support customizing sensors like smoke alarms because they are not compatible with the device.
SimpliSafe is a security system that can be installed on the exterior of your home or apartment. The SimpliSafe doorbell was designed to work without an existing doorbell, so it’s important to know if you have one in order for IFTTT integration and other features like SmartThings compatibility to be possible.
NB: You can actually make your SimpliSafe security system work with an existing sensor, however, you may need to call a professional to install this mechanism for you.
How does SimpliSafe connect to sensors?
The base station of the Simplisafe system connects to and controls all sensors. When you purchase a Simplisafe system, you can connect as many sensors as necessary.
SimpliSafe is a security system that connects to sensors. Simplisafe will connect to the sensor in two ways: through the original or with a new one.
If you are looking for a home security system that is easy to install, then Simplisafe can work with your existing sensors. The Envisalink4 (EVL4) technology allows users to create all devices and only need device types for contact, motion, smoke and co2.
The EVL4 creates all device types needed by SimpliSafe software and only requires the user to select which devices are contact/motion/smoke or co2 based on their needs.
Also, Simplisafe can connect to ring sensors by using the Retrofit Alarm kit. When you buy a Ring Alarm system, it comes with the necessary contact sensors to start protecting your home. However, if you want to expand your security coverage and connect wirelessly from an app or control panel, the Ring Retrofit Alarm Kit allows for this functionality.
The professionally installed kit allows for up to 8 contact sensor zones that are wired by power cable into 1 box which is then connected via ethernet cable onto your wireless ring alarm system. This device can be used in virtually any home and is a great way to add sensors without having to invest in more contact sensor hardware.
Does New SimpliSafe work with old sensors?
Not all of the newer SimpliSafe devices are compatible with older sensors. If you have a system that has an analogue keypad and digital sensor, then it is not possible to upgrade your existing setup without replacing some parts or buying additional sensors.
The base station and keypads, motion sensors, entry sensors, smoke detectors and stand-alone sirens are backwards compatible with the Video Doorbell Pro that was released in 2014.
Factors to consider when using or replacing existing alarm systems
Age and endurance of security system
When choosing a new alarm system, it is important to consider the age and endurance of your present security systems. A lot of time has been put into these older systems so you may have a hard time finding one that will work with them.
If you’re looking to upgrade your security system, it’s best to stick with a hybrid. Most systems that are over 10 years old won’t work properly. Analog and non-integrated video monitoring can be replaced by wireless cameras which will allow for greater flexibility in terms of equipment integration.
Expectations for home security
There are multiple factors to consider when using or replacing existing alarm systems for your home. The most important factor is what you expect from the system, and whether those expectations can be met with a given security company or not. Simplisafe offers affordable packages, easy installation and doesn’t require long contracts.
Services and costs of current monitored home security system contracts
Some alarm security systems are still under contracts with monitoring companies. It is important to consider the total cost, like activation and monthly monitoring fees when deciding to use or replace an existing monitored home security system.
The current monitored home security system contracts can range from $99 to around $1,000 a year. It is important for consumers to know the total cost of their contract and whether it fits their needs before signing an agreement with any company.
Programs that work with existing sensors
Simplisafe can be added to a system in two ways: either adding the SimpliSafe hardware to an existing system or connecting it wirelessly.
One has to consider whether they want the advantages of wireless functionality, as well as how much additional equipment costs and how difficult it would be for them to install.
Programs that work with existing sensors:
- Single motion sensor with keypad or
- New sensors can be added to existing systems with Master PIN.
