Break-ins and attempted burglaries can happen unexpectedly. You can never predict when a break-in will happen and therefore, safety and security should be high on the priority list.
Lookout Fire & Security supply and install a wide range of burglar and intruder alarm systems for businesses and homeowners throughout the North West.
In this blog, we cover the key question; what’s the difference between burglar alarms and intruder alarms, and is there in fact any difference at all?
Key topics we cover include:
- What is a burglar alarm?
- What is an intruder alarm?
- Key differences between burglar and intruder alarms
- Which alarm system is suitable for you?
- Business and domestic – which do you need?
Seeking an immediate quotation for a new alarm system for your premises?
Call us today at 01942 387035 or use the contact form and we’ll get back to you promptly.
What Is a Burglar Alarm?
A burglar alarm is a security system specifically designed to alert occupants and authorities when an unauthorised person attempts to enter a property. These alarms typically consist of sensors placed on doors and windows that trigger a loud siren or send alerts when a breach is detected.
Features of a Burglar Alarm:
- Focuses on perimeter protection, mainly entry points such as doors and windows.
- Uses loud sirens to deter burglars from proceeding with their break-in attempt.
- Offers monitoring options, with some systems sending alerts to homeowners or security services.
- Simple to install and operate, making them ideal for residential use.
Burglar alarms work well for protecting against break-ins when the main concern is preventing unauthorised access. However, they might not be comprehensive enough for businesses or high-risk properties that require broader security coverage.
What Is an Intruder Alarm?
An intruder alarm is a more advanced security system designed to detect and respond to unwanted movements from people who aren’t allowed within or around a property. Unlike burglar alarms, which primarily focus on entry points, intruder alarms use motion detectors, infrared sensors, and sometimes CCTV integration to detect suspicious activity inside and outside the premises.
Features of an Intruder Alarm:
- Equipped with motion detection technology, including Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors to identify unauthorised movement.
- Allows for zoned security, enabling users to customise different areas of protection within a property.
- Can be remotely monitored, with many modern systems connected to security services or accessed via smartphone apps.
- Scalable and suitable for both small and large properties, including commercial or industrial spaces.
- Can be integrated with other security measures such as CCTV, access control systems, and smart home security devices.
Intruder alarms provide a more comprehensive level of security, making them ideal for businesses, warehouses, and properties with big or ultra-valuable assets.
Key Differences Between Burglar Alarms and Intruder Alarms
Both burglar and intruder alarms are designed to mitigate risk against break-ins or theft but there are some main differences:
- Focus Area: Burglar alarms focus on entry points like doors and windows, whereas intruder alarms monitor movements inside and outside a property.
- Detection Type: Burglar alarms rely on contact sensors at access points, while intruder alarms use motion sensors, CCTV, and other detection technologies.
- Security Level: Burglar alarms offer basic security, while intruder alarms provide a more advanced level of protection with zoning options.
- Best For: Burglar alarms are best suited for homes and small businesses, whereas intruder alarms are ideal for large properties and high-risk areas.
- Response Time: Burglar alarms trigger an immediate alert upon a breach, whereas intruder alarms may offer monitored responses to unauthorised activity.
- Price: Intruder alarms are generally more expensive but they are more complex too so it makes sense for this to be the case.
Which Alarm System Is Suitable for You?
You should definitely consider a few things before choosing whether it’s best to get a burglar alarm or an intruder alarm for your property.
Firstly, the type of property you’re looking to protect is important.
If it’s your home and you’re mainly looking to prevent break-ins through front doors and windows then a burglar alarm will be the most effective.
For businesses, warehouses or facilities that are much bigger in space and there are more entry points, intruder alarms will be needed, almost definitely.
If your building is in a high-crime area or you’re looking to protect high value assets then you should think about intruder alarm systems. They offer more in terms of functionality and can often integrate with other security systems like CCTV and lighting.
If your property would benefit from either system then burglar alarms would certainly be more affordable, while intruder alarms offer more extensive coverage at a higher price. Think about your budget versus your needs and requirements.
In essence, think long and hard about your specific needs and desires to come to a sensible conclusion.
Business and Domestic – Which Do You Need?
The most suitable alarm system also depends on whether you are securing a home or a business.
For Homes:
- Burglar alarms are typically sufficient for houses and apartments where the main goal is to deter break-ins.
- If additional security is needed, integrating a smart security system with cameras and motion detectors can be beneficial.
For Businesses:
- Intruder alarms provide a higher level of security for commercial properties, ensuring that unauthorised movements are detected in real time.
- Businesses handling high-value inventory or sensitive data should consider monitored intruder alarm systems.
- Integration with CCTV and access control can further strengthen business security.
Contact Lookout Fire & Security Solutions
Hopefully, you’ve now got some good information from this blog about burglar and intruder alarm systems. Whether you have a residential, commercial or industrial building, there’s almost certainly an alarm for you that will be perfect in protecting you from unwanted visitors and break-ins.
Here at Lookout Fire & Security, our team has been supplying and install both burglar and intruder alarms for over a decade and continue to provide an unrivalled service.
If you have any questions on either of these or would simply like more information, we’d love to help.
All you need to do is call us on 01942 387035 or use the contact form to discuss your requirements.