Home Alarms Systems

Home burglar alarm security system

There are indeed many different types of burglar alarm systems on the market and it can be quite a daunting task when trying to find the right system for your particular needs.

Here are few basic things to consider when shopping for a good system. The first question is do you own a home or do you rent ?

This is the first issue in regards to getting the proper system. In most cases , the larger alarm companies do not sell or install systems to renters. There are a few reasons for this, one is to do with house insurance, if you are not the owner then you will need permission from the landlord in order to install a professional system.

Another factor again deals with installation, in the case of a wired system, the wires need to be placed within the walls of the dwelling, thus requiring holes to be drilled into the walls and other modifications which require the authorization of the owner. There is also the cost of monitoring, most alarm companies offer contract terms over a period of a few years in regards to the monitoring service. So if a tenant signs a contract for a 3 year monitoring service term, and then decides to move out after one year, who is going to be responsible for the payment of the monthly fees ?

However there are some very good alternatives on the market for those who rent and would like a burglar alarm system installed. There are many wireless do it yourself alarms that can be purchased from most hardware stores. These are relatively easy to install and can cover any security ‘points’ in the dwelling such as window and door sensors and a central electronic key pad system to control the whole system to name just a few features. The best way to learn more about these systems is to look up “do it your self alarm systems “online and you will find many great and inexpensive systems that can do a good job in protecting your premises.

However if you are a home owner, the questions is : Do I want an wireless or do I want a wired system ?  So what is the difference besides the obvious?

A wired system is the more expensive of the two , simply because it is a permanent system that needs to be professionally installed. The advantages of a wired burglar alarm system is that it normally requires less maintenance and is a more robust system in general.  Wired systems are usually hardwired into the homes electrical system, and
have emergency battery back up power in case of a power outage. Depending on the sophistication of the alarm, there can be indoor and outdoor perimeter detectors such as outdoor motion sensors, automatic lighting and even surveillance cameras on the property. All this can be controlled from an integrated central command center via a
keypad control panel.  The sky is the limit depending on your budget and needs.

Wireless burglar alarm systems are generally less expensive and in many cases can be installed by the home owner. Again the level of sophistication will vary depending on the type of alarm you choose. A more expensive wireless alarm will require professional installation and cover more security points in the dwelling.  Some of these include window and door sensors , interior motion detectors , heat sensors and central keypad system.
Less expensive systems rely on battery power, in which we can already see possible issues with security if the system is not periodically tested for optimum performance.  A more elaborate alarm system will rely on the home’s electricity but can also come equipped with battery back up power.

Both types of system can offer monitoring services if you choose. In case of emergency , the live monitoring service can contact the proper authorities depending on which type of situation arises, be it the police dept. fire dept or ambulance.

To save money on monthly monitoring  fees, you can also put up signs on your property to discourage would be thieves. This is also a great deterrent and in combination with other security devices you can certainly create a high level of security for you and your family.