Second-Hand Security Equipment: 3 Reasons You Shouldn’t Buy It
Why Second-Hand Security Equipment Creates Safety Risks
With the security industry evolving at a fast pace and regularly introducing new products, it is not uncommon to see used security panels or used security cameras for sale in pawn shops, or even online for a fraction of what professional security companies are selling them for. These second-hand security devices often appear as burglar alarms, surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and control panels from various manufacturers.
Although a second-hand price might seem appealing at first, when you buy such devices you are truly taking a gamble. You risk not only your finances but also the safety and integrity of your home security solution. Pre-owned security equipment carries hidden risks that can compromise your entire home protection system.
Here are our top 3 reasons why you should avoid buying second-hand security equipment.
System and Device Lock Outs Prevent Equipment Function
When professionally installed, security panels and cameras are registered to a specific customer account and sometimes to a specific security company. This means if the previous security provider does not deactivate the equipment properly, the cameras and control panel become unusable for new owners. Depending on the specific devices, door sensors and window contacts may also use a proprietary radio frequency. This proprietary frequency limits their use to equipment from a specific security company.
Even if the security panel appears compatible with your system, the device will not enroll or connect properly. Proprietary lockouts are becoming more common in the security industry. Many security providers implement these lockouts to limit customer options or enforce long-term contract agreements and lease arrangements.
Reliability and Confidence Issues With Used Equipment
When you think of home security, you want to know your home remains protected at all times. You need to be confident in your security solution because you depend on the system to work when you need it most. When you buy second-hand security equipment, you may not know how old the device is. You also cannot determine how the previous owner maintained the equipment, whether the backup batteries are dead, or even if the sensors work properly.
Security sensors and detection devices have built-in tamper switches. These tamper switches alert security companies when someone touches or attempts to disable a device. These switches can be very delicate components. A majority of the time you would not know if there was a tamper switch issue unless the device was enrolled to an active security panel.
Support and Technical Assistance Limitations
If you run into issues with your secondhand security solution, how will you find the technical support to get your system operational again? What does a specific trouble light indicate on your particular model? How are the backup batteries changed and are they specialty batteries that require specific replacements?
Adding new security devices, re-setting system times, or entering programming codes for various functions can change how your system operates or reports alerts. System changes normally require an installer access code and professional technical insight. Without proper support or professional service, you may need to call a security company. However, they will be limited on the amount of support they can provide for equipment they did not install. This limitation may result in further investments into your home security solution once again.
Professional Security Equipment Purchasing Recommendations
When it comes to home security, we recommend that you always buy new equipment from a trusted security partner who understands the protection needed for your home. A professional security company will also be able to provide you support and service should any questions arise about your security system.
Check customer reviews and company ratings on sites such as Better Business Bureau, Renovation Find, Google, Facebook or other review platforms. If reviews are consistently bad, or many customers are selling hardware from a specific security company, this could be a red flag about the company’s service quality.
Ensure you ask detailed questions when buying a security system and confirm your equipment will be new, not refurbished. Make sure to take advantage of your buyer’s right to cancel if you aren’t getting the service and equipment quality you’re paying for.