Home security systems have come a long way from that first original setup credited to Marie Van Brittan Brown.
It had a closed-circuit television system, two-way communication, and a remote controlled door. What’s more, the price is no longer a hindrance to getting yourself one because there are systems available for any budget, low or high.
FBI data shows that approximately 1,515,100 burglaries took place in the United States in 2016 alone. Though slightly less than 2015, the alarming number provides sufficient reason to take owning a home security system seriously. To make things easier, here are 5 tips on how to select right:
Nature of Monitoring
Monitoring refers to how your security system communicates with the monitoring center. There are three monitoring methods namely landline, broadband, and cellular that you need to compare.
As the name suggests, for landline, a phone line is the medium of communication with the monitoring center. This mode is outdated and as it involves wiring, a burglar can very easily bypass it by cutting the relevant wires. At the same time, it is a relatively affordable option for basic security
For broadband monitoring, the medium of communication is the internet. In speed and safety, it is better than landline monitoring. In cost, it is better than cellular monitoring. Home automation is possible. The only downside is if you have no internet, you have no security either.
The cellular connection mode is the best in terms of ease of installation and safety because no wiring is involved. It is also the most reliable. Sadly, it is also the most costly.
DIY or Professional
Would you rather install the system yourself or bring in the professional hands? It goes without saying that the second option is heavier on the pocket. The former is preferable if you are a renter because whenever you shift home, you can take the system along with you and reinstall.
Installing yourself gives you a sense of control from putting the pieces together to deciding where you want the devices and sensors to be installed. You are putting in the effort but also saving money. And if you encounter difficulties, there’s always customer support.
Professional installation is completely managed by the security company from checking out your home layout to ideal placement and the setting right of possible glitches. Also, in case of a fire, break-in or other emergency, authorities are automatically alerted in contrast to you having to make the call.
Options for home automation
Home automation is associated with higher-level home security packages. Options include the ability to remotely arm or disarm the system, adjusting temperature, switching lights on and off, watching video surveillance live, controlling small home appliances, and locking or unlocking doors. The options available will differ with company and package.
Pricing
As mentioned earlier, do-it-yourself installation costs less than professional installation. Other factors that have a bearing on pricing include kind of technology and degree of protection. When discussing a quote, don’t forget to touch on initial installation and monthly monitoring.
Don’t hurry with choosing a service provider
Take your time with selecting a home security system service provider. Make sure any company you are considering is suitably licensed in your jurisdiction. Ideally, find out if the company does criminal background checks prior to hiring. Check out online reviews and do whatever else possible to determine if the company you’re dealing with is reputable and reliable. Compare costs, duration of contract if any and packages.
Take customer satisfaction into consideration. Aspects to consider include patience, knowledge, how willing they are to help and how detailed in their answers to questions, and response time to emergencies.
Lastly, you might want to talk to a few realtors in Miami or wherever else you are based, to compare their opinions on a trusted home security system service provider.
We wish you all the best in your search for the right security solution. Stay safe!
Author Bio
Harold Camaya: She is a blogger who loves to write in different verticals. She co-authored Supercharge Organic Traffic: A popular course focusing on Organic Traffic for Ecommerce.. Her hobbies are travelling and reading novels.