Before making a decision on installing a home security system, it is helpful to understand the common types of security systems, their pros and cons, and average costs. This will prepare you for some of the questions a contractor might ask and provide valuable insight before the installation process kicks off.
The options you’ll need to consider when installing a new home security system are wired versus wireless systems and whether you want a monitored or unmonitored system. Below we outline the pros and cons of each choice, plus the benefits of some common equipment, such as cameras and alarms.
Wired Security Systems
With a wired security system, all home entry points are connected to an alarm panel via a low-voltage electrical circuit. Other devices such as keypads, cameras or motion detectors are also connected to this panel. When this circuit is disrupted, such as by a window unexpectedly being open, the alarm is triggered.
For more information about wired systems and to determine if they are the best for your needs, please visit Wired Home Security Systems to learn more.
Wireless Security Systems
A wireless security system features similar security and safety components to its wired counterparts. However, as the name suggests — there are no wires. Rather than the alarm being triggered when the electrical circuit is broken, wireless security systems rely on a series of sensors that use radio-frequency transmitters to communicate with the control panel and set off the alarm.
To find out if wireless systems are the right choice for your needs, visit Wireless Home Security Systems for more details.
Monitored Security Systems
A monitored security system is one of the most common systems on the market. These systems work by alerting an alarm company call center or emergency services dispatcher when the system is triggered. The emergency service personnel then respond to the incident in real-time.
The systems typically include a combination of motion and door sensors, security cameras and sirens. You can also opt for self-monitoring solutions that seamlessly connect your system to your smartphone or tablet for easy observation, or alarm activation and deactivation.
Visit Monitored Home Security Systems for more information about these systems and to determine if they meet your needs.
Unmonitored Security Systems
An unmonitored home security system, sometimes referred to as a DIY home security system if it is installed by the homeowner, usually works by setting off an alarm when the system is triggered. This security system relies on you or someone nearby to contact authorities on their own. Despite the fact that you will need to take emergencies under your own control, these systems feature many of the same equipment and smart device integrations of their monitored counterparts.
To learn more about these systems and determine if they are the best fit for your needs, visit Unmonitored Home Security Systems.
If you are having trouble deciding which type of home security system is right for your home, Modernize can connect you with up to four home security pros who can walk you through your options.
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