How to Choose a Home Alarm System: A Guide

Home alarm systems protect our property and loved ones from dangers and intruders. They keep us safe during the day when we are away at work or school and let us sleep peacefully at night. It’s not easy to select a home security system because there are so many choices available. But, with a little research you can make a wise decision. There are two simple steps to select a home security system. The first step is to find out about the different types of security systems. Then the second step is to determine which system will suit you best.

There are a couple of other considerations. If you are a renter you should look at systems you can install on your own and can take with you. That way you will not have to pay installation fees again when you install your system at your new place. If you own your home your options are broader including a built-in land-line system with a cell uplink back up to provide effective security for any kind of situation.

Look for companies that often many options and you’ll be sure to find one that works for you.

Three types of alarm systems

There are three basic types of home alarm systems that vary in the way they interact with their monitoring centre. Every system should do that in order to make sure that effective communication takes place from your security system to the monitoring centre in case of an emergency. 

A land-line system uses your home phone to communicate with the monitoring centre. That can be a wireless as long as its still communicates with the monitoring system. A cellular system will use a cellular uplink and is considered more reliable than a landline because the system will still communicate even if the telephone lines go down. Broadband is the third system and it operates through a signal sent through a broadband internet connection. It is relatively fast but not as secure as the others, but the cost is much less than all the others.

Install or do it yourself

You can choose to install the home alarm systems yourself or find an authorized contractor who will sell you the equipment and install it for you. If you choose to do it yourself it is relatively easy with the detailed instructions you will receive. Or you can go on YouTube to watch videos to guide you through the installation process. This route can save money, but it is also a bit technical.

You can also save some money by choosing to have a professional install your home alarm system. They will give you a good discount on the equipment if the company installs it, so that is something you should consider as well. A professional installation is typically done by a company representative and they do charges a fee for this service. This installation could be for both wired and wireless and every time you move you will have to pay for the professional installation of your home alarm system.

Remote Control?

One of the latest innovations in home alarm systems is the ability to automate your whole system and to operate it remotely. You can even monitor your home from a far away location using your smart phone or a web-enabled device to control different functions at your home. This means you can turn your alarm on and off and control the lighting, thermostat, and computerized small home appliances from wherever you are. With some automated home alarm systems, you can even view live video surveillance and pre-recorded clips of your house through the system.