A home security system is an essential investment in helping to keep your family safe and protecting your assets. Additionally, a good system can lower your homeowner’s insurance costs by a good percentage. However, with numerous security solutions on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one. This article highlights some key tips that can be helpful in choosing the right security system for your home.
Know Your Needs
Before you start browsing home security companies in your area, first identify the protection you need. Do you need a solution that will alert you when someone tries to break into your house? Do you want to check on your kids while you are away from home? Do you have pets? Do you want to be able to see who is outside your home? Do you require a record of events? Do you want to be able to arm and disarm the system when you are away from home or give someone access without a trigger? This is especially important if you get guests or service providers coming to your home when you are away for work or on holiday. What about smoke and leak detectors? Would you like a system that integrates with your smart tech such as Alexa? By taking time to evaluate such factors, you will choose a system that meets your needs. Moreover, you will avoid paying for features you don’t need. Make a list as you go through your needs.
Monitored Vs. Unmonitored
This is a major choice you must make when selecting a home security system. An unmonitored system will simply sound a siren to notify you when there is an intruder in your home. Another class under the unmonitored is the self-monitored system whereby one gets a notification on their phone whenever there is an issue. The notifications can also be through an email. The key benefit of an unmonitored system is low cost. You only have to pay for the cost of the equipment and installation. The drawback of such a system is that you will have to call for help yourself when there is an intruder or another issue. Another concern with such a system is that one may miss a notification on their phone or the neighbors may not call for help when they hear the alarm.
The second option you have is a monitored system. The initial cost of the system and type of the equipment is basically the same as an unmonitored system. The only key difference is that with a monitored system you are connected to a monitoring center. Guys from the security company will get a notification when the alarm is triggered. They will then call the homeowner to confirm if there is an issue or it was a false alarm. If it wasn’t a false alarm, the monitoring center will call for help on your behalf. The key benefit of a monitored system is that you get help fast and without having to do much. However, it is more expensive as you have to pay a monthly cost.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Some companies offer free installation, especially if you are getting a monitored system package from them. If you don’t get such an offer, you can either do the installation by yourself or hire someone to do it for you. While DIY is the cheaper option, you should only take that path if you are confident that you can do the job well. Otherwise, consider hiring someone to install it for you, as a good expert will not only do the installation but also teach you how to operate the system and how to avoid false alarms. Some security companies don’t have DIY installation options.
Reputation of the Provider
Finally, don’t forget to check the reputation of the provider. Firstly, evaluate the quality of the equipment you are buying. Secondly, if you choose a monitored system, go for a company with great customer service and fast response. Reading online reviews written by other homeowners will give you an overview of the quality of certain security products and the reputation of service providers. Lastly, if you are hiring someone for installation, don’t forget to check their expertise and reputation.
The key to choosing a great security system is by taking your time to evaluate a number of factors before making a decision. To get the very best, explore different options on the market, make a list of packages that suit your needs and compare their features, prices and reputations.
