Considerations for Buying a Home Security System
There’s a lot of bogus web marketing occurring with security systems nowadays that it’s so easy to be drawn into forking an excessive amount for products or services you won’t even actually need, or be stuck with an Alarm service that has a bigger budget for marketing than for customer support.
Before purchasing a home security system, the following are FAQ’s and answers you will surely find helpful:
1. What choices do I have?
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One thing you might be wondering about at the moment is the difference between “home alarm” and “home security.” An alarm system is more wide-ranging, and includes fire and smoke sensors. A home security system could also come with central station monitoring, security cameras, automation options (for instance, for your lighting or door locks) and remote control with the use of a cell phone. A home security system as well involves a monitoring center, automation options fro your lights and door locks, and remote control utilizing your cell phone.
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2. What costs am I looking at?
A simple burglar alarm may be bought online for as little as $20. A self-monitored alarm system comes with a whole set of sensors, including freeze, water and carbon monoxide sensors. An expansive home security system is tracked by a main station and is typically offered with bells and whistles (home security cameras, for example). It generally keeps you under contract for three years, with the monthly rate beginning at $20, plus at least $100 to be paid for the installation.
3. Will it include an installation/set up?
For most choices in home security, it will. The burglar alarms you buy on the Internet online are DIY. You just stick them to your windows and doors with some kind of adhesive tape. If you use a national security system company, there will probably be professional install options, if that is what you would prefer.
4. Do I have to sign a contract?
Contracts apply only to home security systems that are monitored, in which case you will have to pay a monthly service fee. And contracts change depending on the clients’ needs, but the longer the contract, the less expensive it will be. Also ensure that you go over the document exhaustively prior to you signing it to avoid being caught off-guard with any mistakes or hidden costs.
5. Must I install a phone line?
There is no need for this today. Older alarm systems were dependent on phone lines, but they were as well prone to cutting by intruders, especially in older houses where the phone lines were out in the open. The more modern systems, including the DIY ones, provide a broadband (through your Internet connection at home) or cellular (through cell towers) signal option which is a lot safer and reasonable for most homeowners.
6. What’s happens if somebody actually breaks into my house?
This will depend on the kind of alarm system you’re using. If it’s DIY, you will be notified when there’s a burglar. If you’re using a monitored system, the central station will tell you of the incident first, and if you’re unreachable, they will do what they have to do. They will send local cops to your home to avert further damage.
