Eliminate threats to your home with modern home security systems
Are you debating whether to get a home security system or not? Are you uncertain if you even need one?
Today, there are many reasons why people install security systems in their home.
According to Statistics Canada, 11 out of 33 metropolitan areas in the country reported an increase in crime rate, with more incidents of breaking and entering. Saskatoon, Thunder Bay, Guelph, Regina, Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa had consistently recorded an increase in their crime rate.
The good news is that the crime severity index, or CSI, continues to drop in almost all provinces and territories. Breaking and entering remains to be the most common property crime followed by theft and mischief. The rate of property crime has been steadily declining in Canada and this could be attributed partly to higher level of vigilance among residents and the prevalence of home protection systems using the best technology available.
At 3homeprotectionquotes, we aim to help you understand the different types of home alarm systems you can choose from and how to get the best alarm system that suits your budget. There are so many security companies offering similar security systems at different prices. Doing your own research can take a lot of time and confuse you even more.
We have prepared this comprehensive overview of home protection systems, their benefits, features, and cost, to help you find the most practical and affordable solution for protecting your home and your family.
Reasons People Need a Home Security System
Secure entry and exit with home security systems
Your home is not just a physical structure; it holds everything you consider valuable. Your loved ones, your material possessions, and your memories can be hurt or lost if you don’t have a home protection system.
Your security system can set off a fire alarm to notify the fire department which greatly decreases the loss of life and possessions. It can have sensors that alert you if someone tries to open a window or enters the door. It can have a 24/7 monitoring system that alerts authorities at the first sign of trouble in your home.
These are but a few of the security benefits you can obtain from a home security system. Ultimately, enhanced security in your home will keep you and your family safe, obtains help when needed, and will protect you from the loss of your material possessions from fire or burglary.
Research shows that just by having an efficient alarm system installed in your home can deter criminals. This means you can sleep fitfully at night and have peace of mind even when you are away from home.
Best Home Protection Systems – How do they Work
Today, home security focuses on 2 things – protecting you and your home using a comprehensive system with advanced technology and an efficient monitoring system that coordinates with the proper authorities for help.
For example, if your security equipment is triggered, it will produce an alarm sound and transmit a signal to the customer monitoring center. Attempts will be made to contact you to verify the situation and if that fails, the police, fire department or emergency response unit will be alerted.
Types of Monitoring for Home Security Systems
Advanced technologies offer high level of home protection
Security companies that provide home security systems have 24-hour monitoring to manage all levels of your home’s security day and night; this included protection from intruders, theft, fire, and other emergency situations.
Advanced technology has made it possible for security companies to monitor your home using a variety of options.
- Landlines can be used to monitor your home with your control panel accessing your phone line to contact monitoring center in cases of emergency.
- Broadband monitoring allows the control panel to communicate with the monitoring center with your internet connection. It is faster and less expensive. However, internet connections can also be unreliable.
- Cellular monitoring is also widely used in the security industry and is the most technologically advanced. The control panel of your home security system contacts the monitoring center using a cellular uplink. Intruders won’t have any lines to cut. A home using this type of monitoring is required to have reliable cellular signal.
Each home security company offers monitoring with security packages that come with motion and entry sensors that can protect you and your home from intruders. For senior citizens, panic buttons can be part of your home security that allows you to get personal response like emergency alert services.
How Much Does it Cost to protect your Home?
Many home security systems in the market can be purchased at a reasonable price. It is critical to weigh the benefits and the cost in order to choose the right one for your home.
When looking at available home security systems, you should check if the system comes free with monitoring. In some cases, you need to pay for the equipment and do your own installation whereas others need professional installation.
The average price for installation of a new home security system can be between $600 to more than $1,000, with monthly monitoring fees starting at $30. There are cheaper plans that go for $15 or expensive ones that top out at $100 a month. More and more security companies are working to make home security more affordable.
Lowering Fees – Options for Alarm Installation
Some security companies offer to reduce startup costs with a contract for monthly monitoring services. For individuals who don’t want to pay a hefty price, this could be an ideal option. Upfront fees usually include equipment costs, installation, and activation fees.
Another way some companies make home security systems less expensive is to offer a do-it-yourself alarm system. This can be a good option for those who are willing to pay a higher upfront cost and a minimum monitoring fee. If you agree to pay for the equipment upfront, you can also avoid a long contract for a DIY security system.
In considering whether it is worth the price of owning a home protection system, it is important to bear in mind what you stand to lose without one. How much is your peace of mind worth to you?
Common Features of Home Protection Systems –What can you get?
Protect your home inside and out with home security systems
Long ago, a security system meant a burglar alarm system. With rapidly advancing technology, a modern home security system today can go beyond just burglary protection.
The past few years have provided many innovative and life-changing features from a security system. Using wireless technology and camera technology, your home protection system can deter criminals, watch over your property to prevent mischief, record property crime that can be used for putting criminals behind bars, alert authorities, and emergency services when you need help.
More control over your property with Home automation
Another wonderful innovation that comes with home security is home automation. Using 2-way wireless communication and mobile applications, this system allows you to :
- ) see what is happening inside your property
- ) use your smartphone for real time monitoring
- ) view the feed from your security cameras
- ) Turn on and off your lights, adjust thermostat and lock or unlock doors.
Majority of home security systems have the following components:
- anti-burglar alarms
- smoke/ fire warning
- carbon monoxide warning alarm
- water/temperature sensors
Security alarm systems have complex monitoring capabilities using hard-wired or wireless components that make it possible to protect lives and property.
Going DIY or Professionally Installed – Which Alarm System is better?
Homeowners can choose user friendly DIY home security systems with easy installation
Many homeowners think twice about getting home protection systems because of price. You should know that you can get a security system into your home at cost effective ways. There are several options open to homeowners so price should not be a deterrent when it comes to protecting your most valuable possessions.
Your decision will rest on the level of home protection you want. While there is no price tag you can attach on your safety and peace of mind, the cost of security doesn’t mean you need to break the bank.
Budget conscious homeowners can choose a DIY system. Many security companies offer this option to individuals with simpler security needs or smaller budget. They are simple to set up and more affordable. You can still have central monitoring if you want but you can save on the installation cost.
Things to Look For in A DIY System
If you choose the DIY route, you may feel dizzy with the options you find in the market. Aside from price, it is important to look for the following in your DIY system:
- Easy Set-up and Usage
A security system’s reliability should not be confused with complexity. There are good DIY security systems that are intuitive and user friendly. You can have a system that works with your mobile device for remote access and control. - Customization
One of the benefits of a DIY wireless home security system is the option to tailor fit it to your individual needs. You can augment when required such as when your family grows or you move to a new house. - Customer Service and Support
Choose a DIY security system that comes with at least a year’s warranty. Even if you choose not to have central monitoring, you can still get customer support for technical issues or installation questions.
When to Consider Professionally Installed Home Alarm Systems
Security professional installing gate security system
Are there benefits to choosing professionally installed home alarm systems? For larger homes and more complex home protection requirements, you may need to go for a professionally installed system. It costs more and would come with an annual contract and monthly premiums.
The biggest advantage from professional installation is that you don’t do anything and simply let experienced professionals do it for you. If you don’t have time to do it yourself or don’t know if you can, you can let a security company install it for you.
Another advantage is the added assurance that your system is correctly set-up and you receive professional advice about your home’s requirements.
Whether you choose to have a DIY system or professional installation, the important thing is to ensure your home is well-protected and easy for you to work with.
Tips For Choosing Your Home Security System
Relax far from home without worrying about your property
It is critical to choose a reputable security company with a proven track record. There are many security alarm companies that fail; you don’t want to own a system without someone to do the job of monitoring it.
To make the right decision, you can do your research by requesting 3homeprotectionquotes to compare products and price.
Majority of home protection systems are wired and need professional installment. You can choose wireless technology with DIY alarm systems that cost less and are easy to install. There may also be a monthly monitoring package and a contract which locks you in for a certain period of time. Make sure to read the fine print before you sign so you don’t get surprised by additional costs or loopholes.
FINDING THE RIGHT SECURITY COMPANY FOR YOUR HOME ALARM SYSTEM
If you choose to get a security company to provide and install your home protection system, there are important factors you need to consider.
You can check on the company’s reputation and affiliation with the Canadian Security Association to be sure that you are dealing with a trustworthy company.
You can also check on consumer feedback through the Better Business Bureau or call the local law enforcement to see if they have received any complaints about the company.
Protecting your home is a serious business; you need to be assured that it works, can be properly maintained and monitored, and will give you the best defense against crime.
To see your best options, get your free estimates with 3homeprotectionquotes today to begin comparing alarm companies, services, and pricing.