Did you know that one home gets burglarized every 15 seconds, culminating in around 5,000 break-ins daily? As a result, homeowners are increasingly investing in home security systems to protect their families and belongings, deter burglars, and attain a sense of security and comfort.
Whether you own or rent, buying the right home security system can be challenging with so many options on the market. Below are six tips for choosing a home security system for optimal safety and peace of mind.
Identify Your Needs
Start by asking yourself the purpose of the security system. Do you want to keep off intruders, prevent a fire, or monitor your home when away? In addition, you must establish the level of protection needed based on your locality’s crime level and the part of the home you need to protect.
If you want to protect your home when away for business or leisure, you may need door sensors, fire alarms, and motion detectors. Homeowners interested in intruder detection can opt for security alarms, motion sensors, and window films. A wireless long range camera can be ideal for homes with kids and pets and extensive yards.
Determine Your Budget
Before shopping for a home security system, decide how much you want to spend. Apart from the equipment cost, also consider installation, activation, and monitoring expenses. The equipment cost depends on the size of the property, brand, and features.
Bigger homes, for instance, require more equipment, driving up the cost. Some providers charge additional fees for activation, professional monitoring, and cancellation; it pays to familiarize yourself with these costs.
Consider Monitoring Options
When it comes to monitoring, you choose between self-monitoring and professional monitoring. Self-monitoring lets you track various components of a security system yourself. You get a notification when suspicious activity is detected and respond accordingly. Self-monitoring is suitable for small properties and owners without a busy schedule.
On the other hand, professional monitoring involves a security provider watching your home for alarms and suspicious activity. They contact emergency services to avert burglary and disaster if something is amiss.
Choose Ideal Network
A home security system can be wired or wireless. Wired systems are a good option for areas with sparse internet connection. They use a landline connection to transmit data and require professional installation.
Wireless systems are the future of security systems and utilize Wi-Fi or cellular connections to transmit data. They are easy to install and appeal to many homeowners, especially those on a budget. If you opt for a wireless security system, ensure it uses encryption for maximum security.
Identify Installation Method
You can install security systems yourself –DIY or have a trained professional do it. Whether you settle for DIY or professional installation depends on factors like time, comfort level with the equipment, and budget. Nowadays, most systems are pre-programmed and easy to set up for a seamless and stress-free DIY installation. In a professional installation, you gain from a professional’s expertise and experience. In exchange, you pay an installation fee and work around their schedule.
Security Add-ons
There’s no one-size-fits-all security system, and the best system should have features that suit your lifestyle. Typically, most security systems come with sensors, alarms, and detectors. Other features include smartphone connectivity, facial recognition technology, key fobs, video doorbells, remote sirens, and smart home integration.
Security systems with a home automation feature are desirable because they enhance security by performing tasks like switching off lights and locking doors at night. Some systems have panic buttons and pendants for extra protection for vulnerable people. Camera integration is a highly-sought feature, especially among homeowners with expansive outdoor areas.
The right security system protects your family and valuables and keeps off burglars. Understanding your home’s security needs and budget, and available options is fundamental when choosing a security system.