Security System Buying Guide

Installing a home security system is a good way to burglar proof your home. Home alarms and CCTVs have become more in demand in recent years as homeowners are becoming more concerned with crime and safety. Studies have shown that homes that are installed with security systems are only a third as likely to be burgled compared to those that do not have alarm systems. Those that are burglarised also suffer less losses.

With high demand for security systems in the market, one will find many brands and models offering varied features. Choosing the best one for your home can be a daunting task. Read our security system buying guide below and get tips to help you make your decision.

Security System Buying Guide

Here’s an easy to use security system buying guide:

There are two things you should consider: the system components or equipment, and whether you want a wired or wireless security system.

There are several components to a home security system, whether you want a basic system or a more advanced one.

1. Alarms – Alarms are connected to the sensors and are triggered to go off during a disturbance to alert you. Alarms can vary in form. Some alarms are programmed to be silent and simply make a phone call to you or your provider, or they can include loud sirens to alert your neighbors and hopefully scare the burglar away.
2. Sensors – Usually attached to windows and door frames, sensors trasmit a signal to the control panel to initiate an alarm when there is disturbance detected. You can also install heat detectors and visual sensors. The latter will be most useful if your have family members who have difficulty with hearing as the sensors will flash lights in case of a disturbance.
3. Motion Detectors – These are placed inside doorways or around the exterior off the home and will trigger an alarm or a camera if there is motion or activity detected.
4. Control Panel – This receives the alert from the alarms and sensors during a disturbance, and trigger an alarm. The control panel should be installed in an area that is convenient for you, but not easily accessible to intruders.
5. Video Cameras – A video camera can be placed at the entrance of your home to monitor activity. If you plan to install multiple cameras in your home, you will need a CCTV to monitor the video feed.
6. Monitoring Services – You can choose to employ the services of a security company to monitor your security system. During a breach, the security company is notified, who in turn will contact you and the police.

Choosing between wired and wireless security systems will depend on your needs and preferences. Here’s a quick security system buying guide comparison between the two:

Wired System

Pros:
– cheaper
– great choice for homes that are being constructed as you can incorporate the system to your structured wiring network
– connects to your monitoring service through the wired connection and there is no need for a mobile phone

Cons:
– installation can be challenging especially if your house is not prewired
– if the wires are cut, the security system is disabled
– uses a keypad inside the home where code must be entered to disarm the system

Wireless System

Pros:
– easier and faster to install
– uses batteries, providing no way for intruders to cut the connection
– uses remote devices to control the system

Cons:
– more expensive
– needs a mobile phone to be connected to your monitoring service
– there is a constant need to monitor the battery life, when the battery dies, the system will fail to operate

Here are some additional tips on our security system buying guide:

— Buy an alarm that comes with a panic button. This will allow you to trigger the alarm yourself if you see or hear something suspicious, without waiting for the intruder to trip the alarm.

— Get a battery back up in case of a power failure.

— Ask if you can get the alarm system with heat and smoke detectors.

Get more help on our security system buying guide from experts by calling us today.