No one can emphasize enough how important it is to make your home as secure as possible. It is where you and your family live. Also, it houses your things and belongings.
When staying at home, you have to feel safe. There’s something wrong if you feel like danger’s constantly lurking around. Therefore, it is wise to invest in security systems. Moreover, it is highly recommended you do it the smart way.
Smart security systems are today’s go-to security solution. However, choosing one for your home could be a daunting task. Don’t worry. You have this article at your disposal. Here, you will find a breakdown of the basic structure of security systems. Also, it will teach you what to look for when buying one.
The majority of home security systems include two main parts. One is the actual equipment that you install at your smart home. That would be the smart cameras, video doorbells, and sensors.
The other one is the monitoring service. It keeps your security system connected to your provider’s 24/7 security monitoring centers.
You should check if both suit your needs before buying a piece of equipment.
Aside from that, it would be best if you also looked at the rates. Now, the rates you will see while
shopping reflects a small selection of included equipment and the monitoring service. To get a more accurate and customized rate, reach out to the provider you are considering. Ask them for a free quote. Any reputable company would provide you with that. If the company you contacted did not, don’t buy from them. Likely, they’re not trustworthy.
The Basic Structure of Home Security Systems
Reliable Security Equipment
You have so many options for your smart security system. There are smart sensors, video doorbells, and HD indoor and outdoor cameras.
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Two devices are almost always present – the door and window sensor and the alarm panel & keypad. That’s enough most of the time because most burglars would use your doors or windows to break in. They would not have the equipment to blast through your walls. And even if they do, they would not do that because it would make too much noise.
While that system is enough, leaving it at that is not advised. As the common saying goes, prevention is better than cure. This system only activates when the burglars have already broken in. Thus, getting security cameras is a good move. They will help scare away suspicious people and prevent burglary. Also, they provide you with video recordings you can provide the investigators.
Suppose you plan to buy smart home devices but don’t have specific ones in mind. The best thing to do is dump that money on smart home security systems.
Security Monitoring
The other half of the home security system is the 24/7 monitoring service. It does not mean that someone from your provider micromanages your settings. Instead, it means that the servers at your provider’s end constantly get updates on your system’s status. It will know when your system is armed or unarmed. Likewise, it will know when sensors are activated or standing by.
Then, a security professional immediately takes action when your alarm goes off. They will get in contact with the police. Furthermore, they will also contact you to check if you are safe. They will also tell you what to do next.
Home Security System Types
There are other features home security systems offer on top of the two main parts mentioned above. The extra feature on the type of security system. Here is a guide to every type:
Landline or Wireless
Alarm systems often use a landline phone connection to connect to the provider. But that’s in the past. These days, more security systems use wireless cellular networks instead. This type is more effective because burglars can’t disable this as easily.
Smart or Analog
You can go with the typical security system. But if you want better security, opting for a smart home security system is highly recommended. This type comes with automation. For example, your lights turn on and off at random times of the day when you are on vacation. That would make burglars think you are home. And so they are not likely to target your home. You can also view the live camera feed using your smartphone.
Camera or Non-camera
To some people, having sensors with 24/7 monitoring is enough. But there is a glaring flaw in this system. Yes, police can act quickly. But by the time they have arrived, the burglar has already escaped. And you may not have seen their face. So, it is not as effective. Cameras record videos, which you can view to find evidence and figure out the culprit’s identity.
Monitored or Unmonitored
Some security systems only come with the equipment part and not with the monitoring part. This type has a lower cost. However, it will not alert your provider when someone breaks into your home. Thus, everything is in your hands.
Which Security System Should You Pick?
Different homes and families’ needs vary. So, there is no definitive answer to the question: Which is the best security system?
Here’s how you can choose the best security system for your home. It would help if you listed your main concerns and priorities. Find products and services that meet those needs. And that should be it.
Factors You Should Consider
- Do you often leave your home unoccupied for extended periods? You will need a smart home security system if you do because it provides you with remote access to your home and security system.
- Are you on a tight budget? This factor will affect what equipment and service to choose.
- Is there a second entrance door in your home that’s not visible from the road? You will need a camera there because the chances of burglars using that are high.
- Do you have children that arrive home from school earlier than you arrive from work? A smart door lock would be handy in this case.