In my area, I've noticed a real uptick in clients asking if their security setup can turn off lights or fans automatically. I began testing a few wireless relays that work with common alarm panels to handle this. Take this with a grain of salt, but adding this demo to my service call has made homeowners really happy. It's a simple add-on that makes the whole system feel more modern to them.
Remember when every install meant pulling wire through walls and attics? Now, with all these wireless kits, it's easy to skip that hard work. But last week, a customer's whole system went offline because their router reset. The wireless sensors couldn't reconnect, but the old wired door contact I put in years ago still triggered. It made me think we might be relying too much on tech that can fail. I'm not saying ditch wireless, but maybe keep a wired backup for key points. How do you guys handle mix and match systems now?
I was doing a routine install at a family home last Tuesday. The dad casually mentioned his toddler loves climbing on furniture near the windows. It hit me that my standard sensor spots were too low. I moved them up higher right then and there. Now I make it a point to ask about kids and pets during every estimate. That one conversation saved me from future headaches. Honestly, listening to clients makes our jobs way smoother.