Home security systems promise to provide true peace of mind by helping you look out for intruders, water leaks, and everything in between. In order to put your worries aside, it’s important to select a system that aligns with the needs of your household.
Unfortunately, with so many security systems on the market today, digging through the options can feel quite overwhelming. The features may start to blur together, leaving you at a loss as to which one you should select.
If you need help weighing your options, you’ve come to the right place. With this guide, you can learn about all the steps that will lead you to a home security system you can trust..
1) Think About Why You’re Getting a Security System
Home security systems have come a long way from simply watching out for intruders. Modern systems can let you check in on your kids or pets while you’re away, monitor for water or carbon monoxide leaks, and so much more. So, you’ll need to reflect on just why you want a security system to find ones that have the right features for the job.
If you want to check in on the kids, for example, then the system should have cameras and a two-way intercom. But if you’re just wanting to monitor your house for burglars and other hazards, you might benefit better from one with motion and leak detection equipment integrated into the system. Once you have your goals in mind, you can move onto the next step to better understand what features are available to you.
2) Check Out the Features Offered with Each Model
Home security systems are all built a little bit differently to suit customers’ varied preferences. There are systems for those who want it all, while others might just offer a minimalistic experience. By taking a peek at all the possible features, you’ll know just what to look for as you weigh each option.
Smart Functions
Most modern home security systems can connect directly to your other smart home devices and send notifications to your phone. They allow you to use voice controls to set and deactivate the alarm, look through your cameras, and setup household routines. If you’re away from home, you can use your smartphone to check the status of your sensors, peek through your cameras, and use the intercom system.
Cameras
Cameras let you view specific areas of your home on demand and they activate automatically upon detecting motion. You can find security systems with indoor nanny cams and outdoor camera systems, including ones that work as a doorbell or floodlight above the garage. While looking at the cameras in real-time, you use the two-way intercom to speak with your family members and pets.
Smoke and CO Detectors
Basic smoke and carbon monoxide detectors do very little to alert you to the problem if you’re not home. Thankfully, you can get ones that hook directly to your home security system to send you a mobile alert any time a problem is detected. That way, you can call the authorities and have them check it out instead of walking into a potentially dangerous situation.
Water Leak Detectors
Water leaks do not need much time to devastate your home and leave its building materials in shambles. To detect leaks in an instant, choose a security system that hooks to series of sensors. These sensors monitor appliances, pipes, and the like for leaks. You can also install freeze sensors that let you know when temperatures drop to levels that could impact the health of your plumbing.
Door and Window Monitors
If you want to primarily monitor for burglars, you’ll love the models that have door and window monitors. These sensors beep or send a notification to let you know when a door or window opens and can even tell if the glass breaks.
Each year, home security companies add more features to their lineup. Make sure to carefully read through all the features each model offers to verify it aligns with your expectations.
3) Look at the Layout and Specifics of Your Home
To best work in your home, the security system must have enough cameras, sensors, and other equipment to adequately protect every corner of your dwelling. Count your windows and doors, reflect on where you’d like the camera equipment, and think about the best spots for the other sensors to get a good idea on what your home will require.
Then, compare that info to the security system specs to rule out models that just won’t cut it. You may be able to ask the company about add-on packages that increase the number of sensors, but not all offer that option.
Also, don’t forget to assess what connectivity systems you have available. Home security systems can hook to the landline, broadband, or cellular services. They may also come with wireless broadband connectivity in case you do not have a hardwire connection near the installation point. If you do not have a landline or broadband connection, you can have them installed by an expert for an extra charge — or just go with cellular instead.
4) Think About Your Budget Before Settling on a System
Although you cannot make the choice on price alone, your budget matters when it comes to choosing the best home security system. If your ideal system is outside your budget range, you will either need to look for a lower cost model with comparable features or keep saving.
Don’t just consider the initial cost either. If you want a system that has requires professional monitoring, you’ll have to think about the monthly costs as well. If you can’t swing the monthly rate, then you might want to consider a self-monitored system instead.
Your budget will also likely come into play as you decide if you want to go with a DIY or professional install. If you have an expert install the equipment, expect to pay high installation fees upfront. Self-installed systems may have a higher equipment cost, however, since they arrive ready to go.
5) Select Your Top Option with Confidence You’ve Made the Right Choice
Now that you’ve narrowed down the options, take a deep breath and select the system that aligns best with your needs. Although nothing is ever perfect, you’re likely to be quite happy with your selection since you’ve put so much work into picking it out. Just make sure to speak with your installer or look through the manual to learn how to use all the key features.
