Tips for Choosing a Home Security System

If you're thinking about buying a security system for your home, the seemingly vast array of equipment and services to choose from may seem a bit daunting. Not only are there several different security companies ready and willing to set up your system but there are also different types of systems to choose from. Just how many bells and whistles do you need? Can you install the service yourself, or do you need the job done professionally? Is it worth it to pay for a monitoring service or will a loud alarm be good enough? All these are questions you need to figure out before you can choose a service. The good news is that keeping a few things in mind can quickly streamline the decision making process. For one thing, most home security equipment is made by only a few different manufacturers. That alone will help make choosing which equipment you'd like a lot less onerous task. Also considering your budget and how DIY-oriented you are will also make the decision easier. Read on to learn more about the types of security systems available and how to choose the one that's right for you.

Types of Security Systems

Modern home security systems are actually made up of several different components, such as motion detectors, glass break detectors, smoke and heat detectors, water detectors, backup communication systems and key fobs controls. When all of these components are put together, they become a package. Packages often include remote access and control through computers, smart phones, tablets or other mobile devices.

A particular type of home security package that's gaining popularity is what's known as "interactive home security." This type of system gives homeowners control over who can enter the home and when in addition to the ability to turn lights off and on, adjust the thermostat, view live cameras and receive notification of events such as when motion is sensed, when doors are opened or when events do not occur as scheduled. Websites such as http://www.circlecityalarm.com/ are a great source of information on these types of systems.

How to Choose

There are several things to consider that will help you narrow down your options such as:

• How much security do you really need? Interactive home security is a fantastic option if you travel often, have a large home, or need to let people in and out at various times when you're not at home. However, it might be a bit much if you live in a smaller house and are home most of the time. Additionally, what components of a home security service do you need? Heat and smoke detection make sense for everyone but if you live on high ground in a dry climate and don't have a basement, you could probably live without water detection.
• Do you want professional installation or DIY? In this case, it's extremely important to run the numbers before deciding if DIY is worth it. Some home security companies will sell you equipment that you install yourself. This saves money on installation fees. However, other companies will give you a deep discount on the equipment itself if you agree to professional installation. Sometimes if you are a member of AAA or other similar organizations, you can get additional discounts on home security services and installation. In those cases, it's actually less expensive to go ahead and let the pros do the install.
• Do you need a monitoring service? A monitoring service means that when your alarm is sounded, the security company and/or local law enforcement is alerted. There is a monthly fee for this service. If you don't feel this is necessary, it can save you anywhere from $20 to upwards of $50 a month.

About the Author: Thomas M. Bird is a home security expert and contributing writer who enjoys helping homeowners choose a security system that's right for them.

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