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What to Consider Before You Buy a Home Security System

Home Security

What to Consider Before You Buy a Home Security System

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What’s the difference between a home alarm system and a home security system? Technically… nothing! Basically, what matters most is the level of home automation, the installation, and the monitoring options. There are many home security systems to choose from, and this needs careful consideration. The best way to come to a good decision is by answering the following questions.

* Do you own or rent your current home?
* Will you need remote mobile access, and what are the options?
* Is a camera necessary?
* Are you planning to move anytime soon?
* Do you need more than an anti-burglar system?
* Any good referrals?
* What is the reputation of the security system?

These simple questions will guide you to the choice of home security and ensure you get precisely what you need. You will find that most home security systems come with extra features that you don’t need and most likely will never use! Being a smart shopper will save you money and a lot of headaches. Just do your homework properly.

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So what next?

After answering the above questions, it’s time to go into the actual home security system options and get the best that suits your needs or that you prefer. The following is a summarized list of features to always look out for when investing in a home security system.

Home Security

* Cost – this covers buying the equipment, installation, and monthly monitoring subscription costs. It would help if you considered the price of the equipment and the installation cost that comes with the home security system bought. Some wireless security systems require a simple DIY, but you can also hire a handyperson if your DIY skills are never developed! Make sure you get the best bargain as you will get different quotes for the same thing.

Tip: Wireless home security systems are cheaper and easier to install compared to wired systems.

* Installation – the next thing you should consider is the installation requirements and procedure. While some simple systems installations are DIY, you might need to hire a third-party professional handyperson and pay by the hour to get it fixed properly. Otherwise, most security companies will do the installation for you, which is charged as part of the overall cost.

* Monitoring – how your home security system is monitored is very important. Most security companies will have a central monitoring station that is human-crewed 24/7. There are basically 3 ways that monitoring channels can be set up. Cellular monitoring is the safest option and the most expensive, phone line and internet, which is the cheapest of the three. Please note that central monitoring costs can run up to $60 per month, and you may not actually need it! Also, self-monitoring may be a good idea but not always the best option.

* Home Automation – this is one feature that has gained popularity in recent times. Please note that you’ll need to pay extra for this. Basically, what this will do for you is allow you to control appliances and the security equipment while you’re out of the house. You can be able to view life or recorded CCTV camera feeds and disarms or arm the alarm from wherever you are through your smartphone or any other web-enabled device. A system that supports various detection and sensor while allowing you extended control options is the best.

* Contracts – always remember to read the fine print. Many security companies will slap you with a contract when installing the home security system for you. Check the period of the contract and the terms before signing anything. Also, confirm if the contract covers moving the system to your new home if you need to move. Contracts are binding legal documents, and you will want to be on the safe side of the fence when things go unexpectedly wrong!

* Warranty On Equipment – you will want to consider this very keenly before purchasing any security or home monitoring equipment. Most security companies offer a warranty covering free replacements or repairs for a certain period of time. Confirm the warranty information to avoid any future problems.

* Scalability or Add-On Features – another thing you will want with a security system is the ability and ease of upgrading or downgrading as required. As lifestyles are known to change, it’s important to find out beforehand if the security system will allow you to incorporate the changes or additions without complications.

* Remote Access – a good home security system will also allow you to have remote access via mobile apps or web-based dashboards.

Final Word

These few features will help you get the best home security system to bring you the peace of mind and security you deserve in your home. Just ensure your research and evaluation are thorough before entering into any related deals.

Calvin M. Barker

Typical tv scholar. Problem solver. Writer. Extreme bacon fan. Twitter maven. Music evangelist. Spent a year consulting about salsa in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Spoke at an international conference about lecturing about junk food in New York, NY. Earned praise for promoting robotic shrimp in Phoenix, AZ. Spent 2002-2007 working on catfish in Naples, FL. Spent several months developing yogurt in Orlando, FL. Spent high school summers managing dandruff in Africa.

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