Getting the Right Home Security System for You
Modern home security has advanced well past a good sturdy bolt lock on the front door and Fido. To find the right security system requires some research and comparing packages from various systems that best meet your home and lifestyles needs. There are two basic systems to choose from.
The older unmonitored system emits a loud alarm noise that in addition to scaring off the intruder also alerts most of the people on the block that your home has been broken into. This is both a positive and negative based on how often your system has false alarms. No one likes the house that constantly cries wolf. The alarm usually will continue until manually shut off or sometimes there is a preset duration.
A monitored home security system sends an electronic signal to the monitoring service’s call center where the home owner and police are notified that there is an apparent break in. The home owner has the ability to let the service know if it is a false alarm and its stealth nature allows police the chance to respond without alerting the burglar increasing the chances he will be apprehended.
When selecting a specific system there a several components you have to choose from. The more elaborate, the safer, but also the more expensive. The first decision you will need to make is if you want a hardwired system or wireless. The hardwiring tends to be less expensive but can be more difficult to install, especially if trying to conceal the wires and cables from running all over your house. Despite costing a little more, most people opt for wireless to avoid their house looking cluttered with the wiring and the relative ease of installation.
You will then need to decide on the actual components for your system. The first choice is your control panel. This is the mother station of your system and it is important to read and understand the operating system as this controls the whole security system. Next you will have to decide your specific security needs. Basic equipment includes motion detectors that detect suspicious movement in your house. These have settings so Fido won’t trigger false alarms. These can also be located inside and outside the house. Another basic component is magnetic locks. These are pairs magnets place on windows and doors that when the magnetic seal is broken the alarm is triggered. A more expensive addition is security cameras but many homeowners find great comfort in being able to record activity at their homes when they are away. These are placed strategically around the house and provide the eyes to the security monitoring company. These can also be discreetly placed as is popular with nanny cams.