Can I use a home security system with existing equipment in Charleston?

As you research the different smart home services you can use, you could wonder if you'll have to use brand-new equipment or if you can incorporate your home security system with existing equipment in Charleston.

Using existing alarms and cameras depends on the circumstance. You can take your existing equipment and transfer them to a Vivint system, but only if they use Z-wave linking and are compatible with the new system. Here are three scenarios where you may be able to use your old component and slip it into the new system.

Your new place has a pre-installed home security system

Many times after you close on a home, you’ll see that the old owners used a security system. All the components function well, are hung in the right areas, and are ready to go. In this case, all you might have to do is to call and establish a new service contract. A Vivint professional will still come out to ensure there are no usability problems, and they might offer ideas on an upgrade or two. It's a quick visit, and you can get your monitoring set up without paying for any new components -- unless you get some new devices.

The outgoing homeowners can move an existing Vivint contract to you for a nominal set-up fee to make the process easier. If the outgoing residents are moving to an apartment or smaller home, you keeping the Vivint service may be a condition of the sale.

You are looking to move and take your old components with you

You might need to bring along your favorite Vivint system with you to a new home when you move. Luckily, it's fairly simple to accomplish, as modern smart devices are portable. You can take down each component yourself or use a professional installer to come and dismantle everything. Then an expert will set up the same components -- and any new things you want -- in your new place. Your home security contract will remain the same.

You have one device and want to add on

Your doorbell camera, garage door sensor, or small motion detector helped you notice the benefits of a smart home, and now you want to add on. Don't fret too much if you’ll be tossing away that lone device because it may link in with your new system. Companies like Vivint have crafted their programs from the ground up and welcome 3rd party alarms and cameras.

You might erase the video clips you have in the cloud, as they might not integrate into the Vivint app. But your smart item will still operate like it would when it was a single alarm or camera. You may even discover some new activities available now that the device is part of a larger smart home.

Call Vivint for your home security needs

Whether you're setting up a home security system with existing equipment in Charleston, or you need one customized to your specification, look to Vivint. A Vivint agent will discuss your needs and will build the best solution for your home. Call (843) 892-5638 or complete the form below to get started.