14 Messages
New to SimpliSafe - some set-up help requested
I just purchased a base system a couple weeks ago to being self installation and, ultimately, cancelling ADT. Unfortunately, I can't get rid of ADT and their ridiculous monthly charges until I finish my SS build and get back-ordered smoke detectors. Some questions:
- My intention was to add to the system as I determined needs, wants, etc. What that means is that I only bought a few items during the 50% off sale. Now that I have a better idea that we're going to maintain SS as our provider, it seems that I can only add components at full price. That doesn't seem right, especially since I'm still in the 60-day return period. Has anyone had any success getting the discount extended? I have a bunch more to add.
- How loud do I need to "clap" during test mode for the GB sensors? I tried this a few times and I really needed to clap loudly or very close to the sensor. Given the size of the room, it almost seems ineffective. Sensor is mounted about 10-12 feet away from the windows on a direct line. I was this location would provide coverage for multiple rooms and a foyer but that seems impossible.
- Does the GB sensor need to be facing the windows at +/- 90% angles? I can get it A LOT closer to the windows if I mount it on the ceiling above them or on the wall between the 2 windows.
- I've not activated a plan yet. How long can I run the system in test mode? Can I run the system "live" but simply turn the alarm off for the same effect? We have 2 cats so finding the perfect location for the motion sensors may take some time.
- Can the outdoor cameras be used indoors? I prefer the wireless set up of the outdoor cameras. And are they really as bad as a lot of people say? Mine are on back-order, so hopefully being improved before I take delivery.
I'm sure I'll have more questions the deeper I get into the system install but so far I'm liking what SS has to offer at a reasonable price and non-permanent sensor installations.
Thanks!
- My intention was to add to the system as I determined needs, wants, etc. What that means is that I only bought a few items during the 50% off sale. Now that I have a better idea that we're going to maintain SS as our provider, it seems that I can only add components at full price. That doesn't seem right, especially since I'm still in the 60-day return period. Has anyone had any success getting the discount extended? I have a bunch more to add.
- How loud do I need to "clap" during test mode for the GB sensors? I tried this a few times and I really needed to clap loudly or very close to the sensor. Given the size of the room, it almost seems ineffective. Sensor is mounted about 10-12 feet away from the windows on a direct line. I was this location would provide coverage for multiple rooms and a foyer but that seems impossible.
- Does the GB sensor need to be facing the windows at +/- 90% angles? I can get it A LOT closer to the windows if I mount it on the ceiling above them or on the wall between the 2 windows.
- I've not activated a plan yet. How long can I run the system in test mode? Can I run the system "live" but simply turn the alarm off for the same effect? We have 2 cats so finding the perfect location for the motion sensors may take some time.
- Can the outdoor cameras be used indoors? I prefer the wireless set up of the outdoor cameras. And are they really as bad as a lot of people say? Mine are on back-order, so hopefully being improved before I take delivery.
I'm sure I'll have more questions the deeper I get into the system install but so far I'm liking what SS has to offer at a reasonable price and non-permanent sensor installations.
Thanks!
davey_d
Community Admin
•
5.7K Messages
3 years ago
Hi johnion,
Yep, so theoretically you could return your entire package within 60 days, and then re-order with even more components, so you could get a discount for all of it. But since that's a hassle for you, more expensive for us for all the extra shipping, and even a negative impact on the environment, our Sales would be more than happy to just apply a custom discount to your order for additional components. It's just that our Sales team at 800-548-9508 would have to create that custom discount over the phone.
The Glassbreak Sensor is essentially a non-recording microphone that looks out for a specific sequence of sounds. So overall range can be affected by the acoustics in the room. Pressing the Test Button on the unit lowers the sound threshold so that a clap can trigger. But for both the clap test, and the real deal, it should be able to detect a shattered window from 20ft away.
In terms of angles, facing the windows that you guard over would be best.
Since you're still in the process of testing your system out, I suggest activating your system without subscribing to Monitoring Service. You'll be able to set up app access, including cameras, and system settings, and even Push Notifications.
Then, you can set your Motion Sensors to "Secret Alert", which means that whenever they're triggered, you'll get a notification. But it won't set off an actual alarm with a siren.
But if you choose to activate Monitoring Service, the first 72 hours will be your Practice Period. If any actual alarm events are triggered, you'll see then in your Timeline event log, but there won't be able calls from an operator, and there's no chance of them calling your local authorities.
The Outdoor Camera is usable indoors. Though since it's designed for outside use, it currently doesn't respond to the armed state of your system, and would trigger notifications whenever there's a person in the scene.
Keep those questions coming!
(edited)
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BarbaraR
11 Messages
3 years ago
I had a similar need to add some additional components after initial setup, and was able to call in and place an order and get the same discount as my original purchase.
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