Once you know the benefits of a home security system and have decided to install one or upgrade an existing one, it’s important to choose the best system for your home. In this article, we will discuss some tips to help you make an informed decision.
Choosing the right security system requires understanding the benefits and primary goals you are after, knowing the various elements that form a robust system and which are applicable to you and your home, as well as considering the cost of installation, maintenance and monitoring. Let’s proceed to discuss these.
Benefits of Having a Home Security System – Your Goals
Protection of Property and Valuables
No one wants to lose his valuables especially when they are irreplaceable. A home security system that has an alarm is more reliable in putting to flight thieves even before they make any serious attempt to break into your home.
Remote control of Household Activities
Even when absent from home, a security system puts you in control of your home security, giving you peace of mind knowing your home is secure and protected. Using your smartphone you can monitor your home from anywhere if cameras are installed around your house. The awareness and access to Household functions from anywhere are surely helpful in overseeing the affairs of your family while at work.
Spend less Money for Security reasons
A home security system is preferable to paying monthly or yearly security fees. You don’t have to pay repeatedly for the system’s installation; it only needs to be done once. However, when you choose to install a smart security system, be sure to buy genuine parts and hire an expert technician for installation.
You can also save money by using sensors that detect motion and sound rather than purchasing expensive cameras. These sensors turn on the lights or sound an alarm when they detect movement or noise inside or outside your home. You can also buy door, window, and pet sensors to further increase your home’s security.
Manage Home Energy Consumption
Smart home technology can help you manage energy consumption in real-time. Smart thermostats, for example, use algorithms to analyze temperature data from the past few days and take that information into account when adjusting the temperature of your home. This way, you can ensure that your home is comfortable while reducing wasteful energy usage.
Crime Deterrent
It ensures a good environment by making it a crime-free zone and creating a safer neighborhood for everyone. Smart home technology gives you the ability to monitor your home from anywhere. You can set up motion sensors, cameras, and alarms that will alert you if there is any suspicious activity. Additionally, you can buy door, window, and pet sensors to further increase your home’s security. Doing so will make it difficult for burglars or intruders to enter your home and will deter them from attempting to break-in.
Peace of Mind
This is the primary reason why everyone wants to safeguard his family and home. The security system provides a sense of calm and peace. You get to know you’re being protected and the confidence of feeling safe will help you be a more productive, healthy, and focused person.
Elements of a Home Security System
A robust home security system will incorporate some or all of the following components. It is important to note that home security systems come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing you to tailor the system to your particular needs. [1]
- Key Fob and/or Keypad
- Motion sensors
- Door and window sensors
- Glass-break sensors
- Panic Buttons
- High-Decibel Sirens
- Yard Signs and Stickers
- Floodlights
- Surveillance Cameras
- Carbon Monoxide and Smoke
- Detectors
- Control panel
In this article, we exhaust the features and principles of operation of each of these components.
Now, how do you decide what home security system to deploy? What components should be present in your system?
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Home Security System
Security System Costs
Cost is a huge consideration in selecting a home security system. You need to make sure the system you choose meets your budget. Basic systems with limited features can be cheaper, while more comprehensive systems that provide multiple layers of protection may cost more. It’s important to weigh these costs against the long-term benefits of an effective home security system.
In opting for a professionally-monitored security system, there is the consideration of the service plan or package to subscribe to, with different levels of security that range in price. More worth may require more cash. In order to discover the ideal fit, you should balance your priorities and money. When it is set up by a professional, more services and charges are attracted than when it is done by yourself, but there are also savings that result such as not having to repair or replace parts due to improper selection or faulty installation.
The Size of Your Home
Your home’s size will have an impact on the type of security system you choose to install. A larger home requires a more complex and advanced system that can be customized to fit your specific needs. The smaller the area, the fewer components you’ll need – such as cameras, motion. sensors, and control panels.
The Location of Your Home
If your home is in an isolated area, you’ll need a different system than if it’s in the middle of a busy city. The same goes for areas where there are lots of trees or other natural obstructions that could block signals from cameras or motion sensors.
Contract Requirements
This is a key consideration when professional service subscription is involved, or when building your own system. It is important to factor in warranties, additional services and customer service plans. Find out what type of monitoring is available and how it can be customized for your needs. Find out the implication if you’re considering moving out to another location, what are the contract termination notice requirements and whether there are any additional costs that come with the move.
System Integration
This is also an important factor when constructing a security system. Many alarm systems today provide integration with other devices such as smart locks, lighting control systems and video surveillance systems. Make sure to research which type of systems are compatible with your setup and ensure they reflect the specific needs of your property.
Installation and Maintenance
Another factor to consider when shopping for a security system is the installation and maintenance process. Make sure you understand how long it will take to install, what type of maintenance is required and if there are any additional fees or charges associated with the installation and/or maintenance.
Professional installation vs DIY installation
You are to choose if the professionals should do the installation or you could do it yourself.
Professional installation means you have to summon an expert to do it for you, let them into your home, and typically pay for the installation cost. Given the ease of access to installation training videos nowadays, DIY enthusiasts do not see any risks with not engaging professional help.
However, professional installation is highly recommended as they are trained to handle the task; from the wiring to setting up the system and running tests to ensure all components of your home security system perform optimally. They will also be able to guide you on any upgrades or changes you may need for your setup, such as adding a new camera or sensor.
Moreover, professional installation can save you a lot of stress and time since the experts are well experienced in installing security systems. This is especially beneficial for those who do not have experience with wiring and technical devices setup. Professional installers also provide warranties and guarantees that all their work is done correctly and safely.
But doing it yourself simply involves purchasing these devices, reading through the manuals, mounting them to the desired place, and connecting them to operation. Luckily, many DIY systems come pre-programmed so that all you have to do is set them up yourself as you desire.
Monitoring Options
You may want to set up a monitoring system after installation or you just leave it unmonitored by doing it yourself and taking full charge of an alert received. [2]
Monitoring system implies an authorized response team taking responsibility whenever an alarm is being triggered. The police or firefighters are being notified immediately in case of any threatening danger. The other option is that you might not set up a monitoring system but respond yourself in an impending danger.
Very Importantly, Think About What Features Are Important To You
Type of Equipment – Wireless and Wired
In recent times, wireless technology has outplaced wired security systems. Using a wired system at home is not so secure since thieves can easily break through by cutting off connections. Wireless is both neat and durable.
Type of Connection
There are three connection options: landline, broadband, and cellular connected to the center but these are for professional monitoring. Connecting to a landline is the cheapest option but it has its downside. If someone cuts the line, you no longer have a connection to the monitoring center. Broadband connection uses high-speed internet to communicate with the monitoring center. Unfortunately, a security system is useless if it goes offline due to power outage. Therefore proper power backup is necessary to keep things running even if the internet goes out. Some providers offer backup batteries to make sure that your system stays functional even if the Wi-Fi cuts out. Cellular monitoring is usually expensive. It operates in the same way your phone works by using signals to make calls and send texts. It’s a reliable method because the signal is unlikely to cut out. [3]
Other important feature considerations are also explored in detail in our article on important features of home security systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth investing in a home security system?
Yes, it is worth investing in a home security system. There are several benefits in buying a security system, including providing real-time monitoring, deterring burglars, and offering additional protection if a burglary should occur. Furthermore, security systems often provide peace of mind, allowing you to relax knowing that your family is safe and secure.
What are the qualities of a good security system?
- A good security system should have an alarm that is able to keep-off thieves and protect the home.
- The system should be reliable in detecting and transmitting security alerts.
- The system should be able to verify security incidents to minimize false alerts.
- The security system should be relatively easy to install, use, and monitor.
What questions should I ask a security company?
Consulting with a security company is the best way to make sure you get the right system for your needs. Here are a few questions that can help you make an informed decision:
- What type of monitoring service does the company provide?
- Does the company have experience with similar systems?
- How quickly will a response team be dispatched in the event of an emergency?
- What type of equipment does the company offer?
- Are there any additional fees for installation, monitoring, or other services?
- What warranties and guarantees are included with the system?
- How long has the security company been in business?
- Are there any references available from past customers?
- Does the company offer additional services such as home automation or environmental monitoring?
- Is the system compatible with other security systems?
- Does the company provide technical support and training for customers?
- Are there any discounts available for long-term contracts or multiple systems?
- What payment plans are available to customers?
- Does the company offer monitoring services, such as video surveillance or remote access control?
By asking these questions, you can get a better sense of what type of system is best for your needs and how reliable the security company is. With the right information, you can make an informed decision and trust that your home is safe and secure.
References
- Best Home Security System Buying Guide – Consumer Reports. https://www.consumerreports.org/home-garden/home-security-systems/buying-guide/
- How to Choose a Home Security System – Best Buy. https://www.bestbuy.com/discover-learn/how-to-choose-a-home-security-system/pcmcat1638976912002
- Complete Guide to Home Security Systems. https://www.security.org/home-security-systems/