Replacement alarm

machiavellianme

Hi, sorry to ask yet another new alar question but I've been reading this forum for some time and am struggling to figure out what to do.
I am looking to replace an ancient Phonewatch alarm (installed when the first became available back in the 90s's and still has the telecom eireann logo. It is possibly the worst install job I've ever seen - wires visible, three large boxes by the front door, holes drilled through the middle of the wall to external bell etc.
I've decided to rip the lot out and replace it with something modern. Roughly, I'm looking for 15 wireless contacts for openings, three door contacts and 2 pirs, a keypad and 2 fobs. This may change depending on advice from a survery by a competent profesional.
Ideally I would like to be able to self monitor but am open to getting a monitoring company down the line.
I've scoured the forum and believe that GSD are probably my best bet (possibly the i70) considering they offer free app access with an IP based solution, since Siemens dont specialise in wireless systems and HKC charge a monthly fee. However, my partner is convinced HKC is the best and this forum certainly seems to show there are a lot installed (and a lot of problems). I've had a quote for a HKC system and to remove the existing alarm but it was well north of 2.5k and I was hoping for something less.
I'm finding it hard to figure out from the installers list who specialises in what manufacturer but is there any installer in Co. Dublin who could advise on all 3 (GSD, HKC and S-V) based on their experience and quote on each or will I have to get three independents and try and compare/contrast myself?

KoolKid

The quote seems a little high. Having said that I'm not sure exactly whats been specified . The HKC is going to cost you that + another €900 taking your system gives you 15 years of good life. Also being very modest and taking there will be no price increases in that time.
GSD does seem to fit your needs.I would recommend getting someone out to survey the property and see what you need.You may be able to bring that installation cost down a bit as well.
Bear in mind , all systems that companies would be installing all must conform to EN50131-1 so there is not going to be a great deal of difference other than costs and charges (despite what some installers will try sell tell you.
You should be looking to cover all accessible points of entry with contacts & sensors and then have a couple of internal PiRs.

machiavellianme

KoolKid wrote: »

The quote seems a little high. Having said that I'm not sure exactly whats been specified . The HKC is going to cost you that + another €900 taking your system gives you 15 years of good life. Also being very modest and taking there will be no price increases in that time.
GSD does seem to fit your needs.I would recommend getting someone out to survey the property and see what you need.You may be able to bring that installation cost down a bit as well.
Bear in mind , all systems that companies would be installing all must conform to EN50131-1 so there is not going to be a great deal of difference other than costs and charges (despite what some installers will try sell tell you.
You should be looking to cover all accessible points of entry with contacts & sensors and then have a couple of internal PiRs.

That's the plan. Almost all windows are accessible, hence needing 15 contact/sensors.
Tbh, I'm just looking for a good installer that can offer a couple of different systems rather than only quote for one brand.

KoolKid

A good installer should be able to offer you multiple options across all panels. Always beware of the one trick ponies.