Are home security systems worth it?
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For any owner, the safety of your family is a top priority. And there are many ways to ensure your home and family are protected. It’s there that home security systems Come in.
As the name suggests, a home security system is a method of securing your home and belongings through a system of connected components and devices. These electronic devices connect to the main control panel, which sounds – and emergency response can be notified – when intruders open an entrance or protected space in your home.
Today’s home security systems are both technologically advanced and you don’t have to spend a fortune. A smart home company like Vivint can give you a better idea of the costs and benefits of a home security system. Get a free quote today!
Are home security systems worth it?
Home security devices provide peace of mind that your home is protected while you are away or asleep.
When purchasing a home security system, you can choose to have your system monitored by a professional or do it yourself. Professional monitoring, which requires a monthly fee, provides around-the-clock protection from security guards who are notified as soon as your alarm sounds. If necessary, these specialists can contact emergency services on your behalf.
You can avoid monthly fees by opting for DIY monitoring and you will still receive alerts when your alarm is activated. However, you will also need to alert the authorities yourself in the event of an emergency. Learn about the different smart home companies, such as Vivid and ADT – have to offer.
To determine if home security systems are worth it, you’ll want to look at the benefits and weigh whether or not they’re worth the cost. Here are some of the top reasons to get a home security system.
5 benefits of a home security system
Generally, most of today’s systems are wireless and can be controlled using your smartphone from anywhere. And that’s just the beginning of the benefits and advantages of a home security system, which include:
- Protect your home: If you have irreplaceable or expensive items that you want to protect, a loud security system can scare off intruders and alert local authorities of a break-in.
- Potentially deter burglaries: Potential burglars may be more likely to move on and look for a different target if an alarm is present at the scene.
- Reduce your home insurance costs: A home security system and other security measures can reduce your Home Insurance bonus up to 15%, according to PolicyGenius.
- Monitor your home remotely: If your system has security cameras, many providers allow you to monitor your home from your phone. Depending on your system, you may even be able to remotely control thermostats, keyless door locks, and other smart devices in your home.
- Receive gas and fire alerts: Depending on your system and provider, you may be able to receive alerts when your smoke or carbon monoxide detectors go off while you’re away. Some providers even offer instant notification to authorities when these emergencies arise.
If any of these benefits appeal to you, consider get a new home security system now.
How much does a home security system cost?
Generally, there are four costs to consider when purchasing a home security system:
- Equipment: Costs may vary depending on the manufacturer and system chosen. When choosing a system, it’s wise to look for the best value with the features you want, not the cheapest price.
- Facility: Installation costs are usually around $200, or you can save some money by installing it yourself.
- Activation: Keep in mind that some providers charge activation fees, ranging from $25 to $100.
- Supervisory fees: If you opt for a professionally monitored home security solution, be prepared to spend up to $60 (maybe more) per month for the service. While the expense might be inconvenient, it might be worth knowing that your home has an extra layer of protection against intruders.
How a Home Security System Works
Most home security systems on the market today operate wirelessly using your home’s Wi-Fi and radio signals to create an integrated home defense system.
Your home security system can include a wide range of additional features, including smart home integration, environmental sensors, glass break sensors and key fob or keypad entry. Here are some typical features they include:
- Control Panel
- Door and window sensors
- Motion detectors
- base station
- Security cameras, which may include a doorbell camera
- Glass break sensor
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Temperature sensors
- Siren or high decibel alarm
Here’s a breakdown of how some of these features work:
- Video surveillance: Wireless cameras use radio frequency or a radio transmitter to send video to your receiver, which is connected to an internal storage device. This device typically stores security video content in the cloud so that you can record and access video footage remotely. Your monitor or receiver should display a link to display the video images.
- Door and window sensors: These entry sensors are another main component of any security system. These sensors consist of two parts, a magnet and a sensor that form magnetic fields when placed close to each other, such as near an entry point. But when a burglar or intruder opens the door or window, this magnetic field is disturbed, causing the sensor to signal the control panel to trigger the siren.
- Motion detectors: Unlike entry detectors, motion detectors sound the alarm and alert you when motion is detected in protected areas inside your home. Motion detectors act as an additional layer of security to protect specific objects or areas, such as artwork or expensive collectibles.
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