Your home is one of the biggest investments you could ever make, and keeping it secure should be a top priority. Due to progressive technological advancements, there is a plethora of home security systems that provide various solutions to fit distinctive needs.
Without a security system, you’ll be more susceptible to home invasions, theft and other threats. Suppose you have already installed a security system. In that case, you should consider looking at the Amazon Alexa and Total Connect 2.0 Integration Guide, which illustrates an effective alternative for monitoring your security system.
On the other hand, if you are yet to purchase a home security system, it’s vital to start considering doing so. To help you with your search, here’s a guide that sheds light on all you need to know about home security systems.
What Are the Various Types of Home Security Systems
Smart Home Security Systems
A smart home security system is convenient since it gives you total control over the safety of your home. It combines innovative home technology with security systems allowing you to automate different systems around your home remotely, including:
- Home security
- Surveillance cameras
- Temperature control
- Lighting
- Door locks
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Monitored Home Security Systems
Monitored security systems can be broken down into two categories:
- Professionally Monitored Security Systems – These security systems are usually monitored by a monitoring company 24/7. If your home’s alarm is tripped, the monitoring company will first confirm that the alarm wasn’t set off by accident before altering and the authorities on your behalf
- Self-Monitored Home Security Systems – This type of home security system leaves the monitoring to you. In the event that your alarm is tripped, it’ll be up to you to contact the authorities. Although self-monitoring is cost-saving, it comes with a couple of downsides:
- You might miss or overlook potential risks
- It takes too long to alert the authorities yourself
- Your attention might be deterred, leaving you vulnerable to threats
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Wired and Wireless Home Security Systems
These security systems send alerts to your phone in the event of a break-in or whenever your alarm is tripped. Wired home security systems are connected via cords to an internet connection and a power source. The recordings and data they capture are automatically uploaded to a local storage drive or the cloud.
On the other hand, wireless home security systems can be moved around if need be. They blend well aesthetically, and like wired security systems, they send data to your preferred storage device.
What Are the Elements of a Home Security System
A comprehensive home security system should include:
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Smart Locks
Smart locks help guarantee your home is secure by automatically locking your doors. This eradicates the need for physical and hide-a-keys which can easily fall into the wrong hands.
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Burglary Detectors
These detectors are activated when you arm your security system and trigger an alarm during a break-in.
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Door and Window Sensors
These sensors are helpful, especially to individuals who forget to lock their doors and windows. When someone tries to open a door or window, these sensors go off, triggering an alarm.
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Glass Break Detectors
These detectors come in handy when a burglar tries to get in by breaking a window. In such an event, the detectors will instantly sound an alarm.
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Garage Door Control
Most people forget to lock their garage door, leaving their homes vulnerable to intruders. This home security feature allows you to secure your garage remotely.
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Protection From Disasters
Break-ins aren’t the only thing that threatens your home’s security. Flooding, fire, and carbon monoxide poisoning can also pose a threat. So it’s safe to opt for a system that includes a water sensor, carbon monoxide detector, and smoke alarm
Additionally, home security companies offer window stickers and yard signs. These are powerful deterrents – they let people know your home is well-protected.
Find Out What Works For You
Choosing a home security system can often seem like a daunting task, but this guide should make your decision easier. You should also consider security costs, installations, contracts, reviews, and customer services to narrow down your search. And hopefully, you’ll find a home security system that works for you.
