How to Remove Old Security System

Prior to talking about how to remove old security system, let’s explore its history. Since the 1970s, companies like DSC, CPI, and ADT have been keeping homes and businesses safe with their security systems. Think of these systems like a protective shield around your house that stays alert 24 hours a day. The main control panel works like a brain, taking in information from all parts of the system and deciding what to do if something goes wrong.

Each system includes several key parts working together. A keypad near your door lets you turn the system on and off with a special code, just like unlocking your phone. Small sensors attach to your doors and windows, and they immediately know if someone tries to open them. Special motion detectors watch your rooms and can tell if someone is moving around when they shouldn’t be. There are even clever microphones that can hear the specific sound of breaking glass.

If any of these sensors spots trouble, a loud alarm goes off to scare away intruders and alert everyone nearby. The system also calls a special monitoring center through your phone line. At these centers, trained professionals work around the clock. When they get an alert, they quickly check what’s happening, try to reach you, and call the police or fire department if needed.

While newer wireless systems are popular today, many people still trust these older systems because they’re so reliable. They don’t need the internet to work, hackers can’t break into them online, and they keep working even during power outages thanks to their backup batteries. That’s why you can still find these systems protecting homes and businesses today – they simply work well and keep working year after year.

These companies each brought something special to home security. DSC became known for making solid, reliable equipment. ADT, which started way back in 1874, became famous for its monitoring services. CPI focused on creating custom security setups that perfectly fit what each customer needed.

How to Remove Old Security System By 5 Easy Steps

Evaluate Your Current System

We need to begin with a thorough assessment of the existing security system. We can identify which components remain functional and which need replacement. For example, we will check each sensor, keypad, and control panel for signs of wear or outdated technology. Our evaluation should include testing the communication capabilities and battery backup systems. Then we can create a list of components that require immediate attention or replacement. Also, we should consider whether partial upgrades could extend the system’s life before committing to a complete replacement.

Removal Process

First, we will locate the main control panel of the security system. Second, when we remove the devices of the system, we have to remove the backup battery to prevent any unexpected alarms later. Besides, we should disconnect the main power supply to ensure our safety. We can proceed to detach any connected keypads and sensors from their mounting positions. Do not forget to carefully label all wires before disconnecting them to maintain organization.

What to Do with Old Security System Wires?

We will first shut off the power at the circuit breaker for safety. Then we can trace each wire back to its source location. We must decide whether to remove the wires completely or leave them in place for future use. If we choose to remove them, we should pull them carefully to avoid damage to walls. We can use fish tape to help guide new wires if needed later. For any wires left in place, we must cap them properly with wire nuts and label them clearly.

How to Remove Old Alarm Keypad from Wall?

Before gently pulling the keypad away from the wall to expose the wire connections, we should locate all screws securing the keypad to its mounting plate. Then we will disconnect each wire carefully, making note of their positions. Next, we must remove the mounting plate from the wall using appropriate tools. After that, we can patch and repair any holes left on the surface of the wall.

Replace It By New Security System

We will prepare the installation locations for our new security components. We can use existing wire pathways when possible to minimize wall damage. Then we should mount the new control panel in an accessible yet secure location. Importantly, we should connect all sensors and keypads according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Next, we can program the system with new user codes and preferences. Last but not least, we must test each component thoroughly to ensure proper.

Key Differences on DSC, CPI and ADT Security System Removal

All three systems share some common elements in their removal process. The basic wiring infrastructure typically stays with the house, regardless of the provider. Power must be disconnected before removal begins. And proper safety procedures must be followed. Wall repairs may be necessary after removing sensors and keypads. Documentation of the removal process helps with future security system installations. Professional removal services from all three companies include proper disposal of batteries and electronic components.

Remove DSC Security System

DSC systems are easier to take down compared to other security systems because you actually own all the equipment. It’s just like owning your own TV or refrigerator – you can decide what to do with it. If you know your way around basic tools and wiring, you can remove the system yourself without calling a professional.

Getting into the system’s control panel is straightforward. You’ll need something called an installer code, which is like a special password. Most homeowners either already have this code or can get it by calling the company that installed their system.

Here’s a nice bonus – all the wires in your walls belong to you too. You can either take them out or leave them there to use with a new security system later. This can save you money and avoid making new holes in your walls.

Another good thing about DSC is that they only make the equipment – they don’t provide the monitoring service. This means you won’t have to deal with canceling any complicated service contracts. You can simply unplug the system and take down the parts whenever you want, just like you would with any other electronic device in your home.

Remove CPI Security System

Taking down a CPI system isn’t as simple as removing your own equipment because you’re actually renting it from CPI, not owning it. Think of it like a rented apartment – you can’t just make changes without talking to the landlord first.

Your first step is to officially end your contract with CPI. If you’re still in the middle of your contract period, you might need to pay some fees to end it early. This is similar to how you might have to pay extra to end a phone contract before it’s finished.

Only CPI’s own technicians are allowed to take out their equipment. This rule helps keep your warranty valid and makes sure everything is properly disconnected. It’s like how some car warranties only stay valid if you get your car serviced at official dealers.

You’ll need to give back all the equipment to CPI, and it needs to be working properly. If anything is broken, CPI might charge you extra fees. The good news is that any wires running through your walls can stay there – those belong to your house.

CPI’s technicians will handle everything during the removal. They have special codes to turn off the system, and they’ll give you paperwork showing exactly what they took out. This makes it easier if you want to install a new system later.

Remove ADT Security System

Among all security companies, ADT has the strictest rules about taking out their equipment. They’re very clear about one main rule – only ADT’s own technicians can remove their system. It’s like having a car lease where only dealership mechanics can work on your car.

Before anything gets removed, you need to officially end your contract with ADT. This means sending them a written notice, and if you’re ending early, you might need to pay some extra fees. Think of it like canceling a gym membership – you need to tell them officially and maybe pay if you’re leaving early.

When it’s time for removal, ADT sends their technicians to your house. These technicians bring special tools and know secret codes that only they have access to. They carefully take out all parts that have ADT’s name on them, but they leave the wires in your walls alone since those belong to your house.

You’ll need to give back all the ADT equipment, and they keep careful records of everything they take out. At the end, ADT gives you an important paper called a removal certificate. This certificate is like a receipt that proves the system was properly removed. You might need this paper later if you’re selling your house or want to put in a new security system.

This whole process might seem strict, but it helps ensure everything is done correctly and safely. Just like how you’d want a professional to handle any important home service.

Key Difficulties During Removal

The removal of old security systems presents several challenging obstacles that homeowners and technicians commonly face. The age of the system often creates the first major hurdle, as older components can become brittle or damaged over time, making them difficult to remove without causing wall damage. Years of paint layers might also seal sensors and keypads tightly to surfaces.

Wire removal creates another significant challenge. Old security wires frequently run behind walls, under floors, or through tight spaces. These wires might become tangled or stuck over time, and pulling them out risks damaging the house’s structure. Some wires might also be integrated with other electrical systems, requiring careful identification before removal.

System documentation poses a frequent problem, as many old systems lack proper installation records or wiring diagrams. Without these documents, identifying the purpose and connection points of various wires becomes a time-consuming process. The control panel might also require special codes or keys that were lost over the years.

Power disconnection presents its own risks. Some systems contain backup batteries that can still trigger alarms even after main power disconnection. Multiple power sources might need identification and proper disconnection to prevent system reactivation during removal.

Lastly, wall repair often becomes necessary after removal. Patches, repainting, and sometimes even drywall replacement might be required to restore the walls to their original condition.

Who Can Remove An Old Alarm System?

If you feel hard on the above operation, it is highly-recommended to ask help from three types of qualified experts. Licensed Security System Technicians are the most common choice, bringing specialized knowledge of alarm systems, wiring configurations, and monitoring connections. Their expertise ensures complete disconnection of all services and proper removal of components.

Licensed Electricians offer another reliable option for system removal. Their deep understanding of electrical systems allows them to safely disconnect power sources, remove wiring from electrical panels, and properly secure any exposed wires, preventing potential hazards during and after removal.

For systems installed by major security providers like ADT or Brinks, Security Company Representatives can handle the removal process. These companies often provide removal services, particularly when customers are upgrading to newer systems or ending their service agreements. They are familiar with their own equipment and can ensure proper disconnection from their monitoring services.