What are the best home security systems for you and your family? Which, if any of them at all, do you really need? There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the appropriate security system for your home. These include quality, price, and last but not the least, the features. Explore these options below:
1. Monitored system
1. Monitored systemA monitored system refers to a home security system that alerts, communicates with, and sends help signals to the monitoring center (or call center) 24/7 when the alarm is triggered. This is perhaps the most common home security system and usually requires professional installation and monthly fees.
It can be done through different means:
- Landline – You can use a landline phone to communicate with the monitoring center when the alarm is triggered, and the monitoring center will then contact the emergency service that is needed. The disadvantage of a landline connection is that it goes through the phone lines and a burglar can locate those lines and cut them, thus the alarm system will be rendered useless.
- Cellular – It is pretty much the same as the landline, but it uses a cellular connection to communicate with the monitoring center when the alarm goes off, and the alerted monitoring center will then contact the emergency service. Since this mode of communication is wireless, it is typically more reliable and faster than the landline.
- Broadband – The broadband sends signals to the monitoring center when the alarm is triggered. Once the monitoring center receives the signal, it will then contact the emergency service. The broadband system has the capability of receiving signals about four times faster than landline, and it is less expensive than cellular. But since a broadband also uses lines, it is less reliable than the cellular communication.
2. Unmonitored system
2. Unmonitored systemThe unmonitored home security system involves the use of loud alarms and sirens inside and outside the house. When the siren goes off, it either scares off the burglar, or alerts the neighbors or somebody else nearby your house to call the police when you’re not home. Flashing lights can also be installed with this system to warn off intruders.
You don’t have to pay monthly fees and professional installation is not required. Just purchase a home security system kit and you can easily install it all by yourself.
The disadvantage about this system is that it relies only on the neighbors to hear the alarm when you’re away. Or if you’re not the “gung-ho” type of homeowner to quickly act on the crisis, or are known as a deep sleeper, this type of system may not be able to protect your home well enough.
3. Wireless alarm system
3. Wireless alarm systemThe advent of high technology has given birth to state-of-the-art and more sophisticated home security systems. They are easy to purchase and to install. And you don’t also need any monthly monitoring fees to provide protection for your home. These wireless systems include security cameras, motion sensors, beams, no-key locks, and more. They can be programmed through the use of Wi-Fi and smart devices like smartphones, tablets, and smart watches. Maintaining them can be pretty expensive though, as they require the use and replacement of batteries. Be sure to learn more about how to prevent robbery at home as well.
There is no top rated home security system; it all depends on your preference and requirements. Make sure that you read home security system reviews and comments online to help you decide which one will work best for your needs and your home.