An alarm system is an important part of any home security plan. It can act as a deterrent against criminals, and if the alarm does go off, it also alerts you to the activity that’s taking place in your home or business. If you’re thinking about installing one, there are several things you should consider first.
Read Reviews
Before you make a big purchase such as an alarm system, you should always do research to find out what other people have to say about the product. Reading reviews from previous buyers can save you from wasting your money on a poor quality product that doesn’t work, or that never gets installed properly. There are many sites online where previous customers can leave their feedback and complaints. Even news sites also feature the best home security systems of 2022, so take advantage of this kind of information before investing in an expensive home security system. Home security is a significant investment but it is only worth it if done properly. Your diligent research can go a long way by ensuring that the products you buy meet your household’s security needs and are of excellent quality.
Get Quotes
While it’s good to know what you should invest in alarm monitoring, keep in mind that quality alarm monitoring costs more than low-quality services. This does not mean you need to spend thousands of dollars on professional or commercial grade monitoring; there are plenty of monthly plans available for around $20-$30/month (or about $2-$3 per day). Shop around before committing – be sure to ask questions when getting quotes from different companies. Do they answer when you call? Do they have an automated phone system or do you actually speak with an actual representative? What will your monthly phone bill look like? How long will it take to resolve a situation if the alarm trips, and how often do false alarms happen to which you would need to be notified?
Do You Need All The Bells And Whistles?
While it’s good to know what equipment comes standard in different alarm packages, don’t limit yourself purely on what’s included. There are plenty of options available…additional detectors for motion, doors/windows, smoke, carbon monoxide, etc.; glass break sensors; contact pads for entryways; panic buttons; key fobs instead of remotes; pre-programmed control panels that allow you to arm and disarm the system via your phone; integrated home automation (lighting, thermostat, TV, etc.).
Do You Need A Video Surveillance System?
While most alarm systems now come standard with at least one camera that is connected to the control panel (and therefore can provide you real-time access), not all companies allow you to view this footage remotely. If having a security system but not being able to check in on your house remotely seems like it would be a burden, make sure the company offers mobile alerting and/or cloud storage of video footage. Ask them how many cameras come standard and what they charge for additional equipment. Also, note that most smartphones have free apps available that allow you to check up on your house from wherever you might be (although this may not be as reliable as a professional monitoring service).
Do You Have A Yard?
While many companies like to sell the idea of home security systems by advertising that they can monitor your house even if you’re not there, this is typically only true if the alarm system has been installed in a place where it can connect to all key sensors and entry/exit points. If your alarm box is located inside or underneath your front porch, any motion detection by the door will still go off whether you’re at home or not…as well as increase false alarms because these detectors are often set to very sensitive settings for maximum range. Even more importantly, how much extra would it cost to install additional equipment? If the company suggests you need to upgrade your equipment or purchase an additional alarm box for this feature, ask them to send a quote.
How Much Security Can You Get For What Price?
Even if it seems like spending more money is going to get you more security, that’s not always the case. The best home security companies typically provide the same level of service for less than their competitors because they have streamlined their processes and use better technology (reducing installation costs), are able to charge monthly fees at rates comparable with low-end providers due to economies of scale, and are able to invest in continued research/development of new alarm systems/equipment. If price is your only factor, don’t assume that choosing the cheapest provider will result in poor customer service.
An effective way of protecting homes and possessions is an alarm system. It uses sensors that are linked to a control panel that tells the alarm what to do in the event of intrusion (usually activating siren or flashlights). Buyers should consider which features their home needs before purchasing a new alarm system.
