Out of sight is out of mind, and that could be true of your garage. Garages will often contain many valuable items, such as cars, bikes and tools. These things are not cheap, so it makes sense to keep them as secure as you can, and a garage alarm could be just the protection you need.
A garage alarm system needn’t cost a fortune, and it could help to deter potential burglars and alert you in the case of any break-in attempts. Today’s alarm systems are more advanced than ever before and come equipped with motion sensors, door sensors, and cameras that can provide real-time monitoring and send alerts to your phone or other connected virtual assistants like Alexa. They provide a valuable added layer of security to your home as thieves are more likely to target homes that appear vulnerable or lacking in security features.
So, what do you need to protect your garage and its valuable contents? Here are some reasonably easy-to-install solutions to beef up your garage security.
The best garage alarms at a glance:
Editor’s choice: Yale YES-ALARMKIT – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best simple garage door alarm: Defender Shock Contact Alarm – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best garage alarm with 3G notification: Ultra Secure Direct 3G UltraPIR GSM Alarm – Buy now from Amazon UK
The best garage alarm in detail
Editor’s choice
Rrp: £119.99
Rrp: £119.99
Once the system is installed, it’s easy to set up as there’s no wiring to be done, and all the elements have been pre-linked before purchase. Arming and disarming is easy using the intuitive control panel interface.
Pros
- Everything you need is included
- The system can be easily expanded
Cons
- No remote control to arm and disarm the system
Best simple garage door alarm
The alarm has passed attack testing to Gold Sold Secure SS503 standard and holds the Secured by Design Police Preferred Specification.
Pros
- Gold standard Sold Secure classification
- Loud alarm siren
Cons
- Battery life could be improved
Best garage alarm with motion sensor
Rrp: £19.99
Rrp: £19.99
Power is provided by four AA batteries, which can provide up to 2 years of use. There is a low battery light to tell you when they need to be replaced.
Pros
- Motion detection
- Loud siren
Cons
- Code choice is limited by the four-digit keypad
Best garage alarm with 3G notification
The system is armed and disarmed using the remote-control unit, which has a range of up to 100 metres. The remote also has an SOS panic button should it be needed for further peace of mind.
Pros
- Notifies you of an alarm when you are away from your property
- Can be used as a stand-alone alarm with no 3G
Cons
- Standard size SIM card is required
Best garage alarm with contact sensor
The system is easily installed; just attach adhesive pads to the door and the door frame, fix the alarm and the magnetic strip, and you’re good to go.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Can be integrated into a larger system
Cons
- AAA batteries not included
What to look for when choosing a garage alarm:
If you are going to fit an alarm to your garage, there are a number of things you may want to consider before making your choice.
Type of alarm: Would you prefer a wired or wireless system? Wired alarms require the installation of wiring and sensors, while wireless alarms can be installed more easily and can be monitored remotely.
Sensors: Choose an alarm with sensors that are appropriate for your garage. For example, motion sensors will detect movement inside the garage, while door sensors will detect when a door is opened.
Sound: Consider the loudness of the alarm’s siren. You want an alarm that is loud enough to deter would-be intruders and be heard from inside your home.
Price: Consider your budget when choosing an alarm for your garage. Prices can range from just a few pounds to hundreds of pounds depending on the features and capabilities
Compatibility: If you have a smart home system or other security devices, consider choosing an alarm that is compatible with your existing system.
Alex Boyd is a Commercial Content Writer at Bauer Media writing for Parker’s and CAR and loves travel, gardening, DIY and music.
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