Searching for the perfect home security system can seem like an overwhelming task, but with the right knowledge, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs. There are five main considerations when choosing a home security system, which include:
- Types of home alarm monitoring systems
- Technology and home automation capabilities
- Customer experience and support
- Security system costs
- Company reputation
So looking through these five elements of choosing a home security system will help you decide which available alarm system is best for your family.
Step One: Reviewing the types of home alarm monitoring systems
There are a variety of different types of security systems, so it’s best to start by reviewing each system and determining which would be the best choice for protecting your loved ones and valuables.
Monitored System
Monitored alarm systems are one of the most popular choices for home security in part because it will alert a call center if the alarm is triggered. The call center then contacts the police.
One downside, though, is that these systems typically are wired through the home’s outdoor phone line. Many people are without landlines today, and a burglar can locate and cut the lines before ever entering the home. You would still think the alarm alerted the call center, but the line would be damaged and never go through.
Another disadvantage is the time it takes for the alarm to alert the call center, who then has to contact the police. This allows far too much time for a thief to steal expensive items during the lengthy process. Look for a professional service with quick access to emergency services.
Unmonitored System
This security alarm system sets off a loud siren inside and outside the house if the alarm is set off. It relies on scaring off potential thieves with the noise and on your or your neighbor’s ability to call the police at the sound of the alarm. It can also include flashing lights to help neighbors or emergency personnel know from which house the alarm is emanating.
While you will not have to pay monitoring fees, making this system affordable, it does not have the professional monitoring station available 24/7, making it less reliable than other systems.
Wireless Alarm System
This system can be purchased at a local hardware store and self-installed. With no wires involved, they are easy to install and include a variety of settings that can be personalized to your needs, such as sensors, cameras, and motion detectors.
However, this system does have its downside. It also relies on the sound of the alarm to scare off the burglar and for you or your neighbors to call the authorities in case of a break-in. Additionally, it may get expensive to place enough sensors and cameras throughout your property in addition to requiring battery replacement frequently.
Cellular Home Alarms
Cellular home alarms are an innovative and progressive alternative to traditional landline monitoring systems. They do not function through the landline, so a burglar cannot cut the line or a breach cannot otherwise occur, such as through a power outage. Cellular security offers homeowners the ability to monitor their home from their smartphone.
For instance, Citywide Alarms cellular home security package allows homeowners to control their alarm system though Verizon Cellular Alarm Radio, which communicates directly with Citywide Alarm’s professional monitoring station, protecting your home 24/7.
Smart Alarms
With smart appliances and smart homes, it makes sense to look into a smart alarm. These alarm systems include video monitoring solutions to allow you to live-stream remotely using any smartphone, tablet, or computer. You’ll be able to view your home and property from work or on vacation. Some popular video solutions available with smart security systems include:
- 24/7 Video IP camera systems
- Motion-activated indoor and outdoor IP and analog cameras
- Wireless motion-activated indoor and outdoor systems that store footage to the cloud
- Video doorbell
- Email and text alerts if motion is detected in or around the home
- Systems powered by Alarm.com, top alarm service trusted by millions
Smart alarms are wireless, so they stay connected even if the power goes out, the phone lines are cut, or the internet goes down. They will automatically detect and alert the monitoring station if the system is tampered with or an attempt is made to destroy the system in any way. They offer two-way voice connection to communication with the monitoring station from the security panel.
In addition to the security features, smart alarms also offer weather warnings for daily weather updates as well as severe weather warnings. They measure and monitor energy consumption and allow you to automatically adjust your lights and thermostat settings based on your living patterns.
Step Two: Determining what technology and home automation capabilities you require
After you’ve looked over the types of alarms available, you should consider which features you would like have along with the bare minimum of what you would need.
For instance, if you live out in the country and have three German Shepherds, you may only want the basic requirements. If you live in an area where your cell phone service is spotty, you probably want to get a monitored system rather than relying on neighbors or yourself to call the police if the alarm sounds. If you have a lot of valuables, you may worry more about a break-in and choose the highest alarm system available.
Of course, no matter what your living situation, you must consider the fact that you are not only protecting your possessions but also your family.
Step Three: Considering customer experience and support
When searching for the perfect home security system, one must consider the customer service and support that is offered with each package. Do-it-yourself alarm systems rarely have any type of support. Monitored systems are the best option for ensuring that you will have the tech support and high-level of customer experience if anything were to go wrong with your system.
Check to see if you will have access to a phone number, even after regular business hours. Companies that offer online chat or active social media accounts are also typically more helpful than those who do not.
Step Four: Determine which security system is within your budget
Security system costs vary greatly from cheap do-it-yourself packages at home improvement stores to full-service smart alarm packages. Determine your budget and review which features you require, then shop around the local alarm monitoring companies. Remember that price should not be the only factor in determining which system to get. Safety and protection of your family and valuables are worth the extra cost of a reliable system.
Step Five: Check out the company reputation
Once you think you’ve settled on a company with the type of home security system that you like at the price you can afford, the last step is to check out the company’s reputation. You can look at sites such as Yelp! to read reviews from others, ask around among family and friends to see what company they use, and head to social media to see what others are saying.
Additionally, a company that has won awards or been otherwise recognized for its value, service, and product is definitely worth looking into. However, no matter what others think, sometimes it just takes you picking up the phone and speaking to a company representative to make a determination yourself.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve reviewed all aspects of a home security system, it’s time to choose the perfect one to fit your needs. Citywide Alarms representatives are ready to speak with you about our packages for monitored, cellular, and smart alarm systems, all of which are excellent choices for protecting your family and come in a variety of features and price ranges.
