Home security has come a long way from the time when people simply locked their doors and windows, and for good reason. Homes today have televisions, smart phones, computers and other expensive items that thieves find very enticing if there aren't sophisticated, effective ways to keep them out.
Luckily, home security came along for the ride into the 21st Century, with high-tech options that fit every lifestyle and ensure that both you and your possessions stay safe.
Security For The 21st Century
Today's home security is a marvel in high-tech engineering. If you have a laptop computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can operate every aspect of your home security system anytime, from anywhere as easily as if you were inside your home.
Because many of these systems operate wirelessly, the security touch pad or other system components can be strategically placed so intruders can't see them and where they won't interfere with appliances or computers. What's more, there are no wires to run along floors, walls or ceilings.
Programmable For Your Individual Needs
Almost every aspect of a modern home security system can be tailored to meet the needs of your specific living situation.
For example, older surveillance systems ran in real time, which meant you had to check a screen at regular intervals, often to see that nothing was happening. The new high-tech cameras can be programmed to ignore what's normal for your household--the kids coming home from school--to focus on something out of the ordinary--a package delivery or some suspicious activity--and send you an email with an attached video clip. No more checking a screen every few minutes.
Many homes have separate systems that monitor or control HVAC, fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and even inside and outside lighting. With a modern security system, you can combine all these into one programmable system that can be managed with a computer or smartphone.
If you own a vacation home far away from where you live, you can purchase an option to have your security system alert you if the pipes freeze or the basement floods.
Some systems are even designed so they can move with you from your old house to your new house without any ill effects.
How To Choose The Right System and Options
Before you start looking at new security systems, step back and consider a few things.
• Consider what features you really need in a security system and what you can live without. There are so many options that it can quickly become both confusing and overwhelming when you start to compare. It might be helpful to talk with a security expert for an opinion of what will work best in your home.
• Know what you want to spend. Basic alarm system components and installation cost around $500, but sophisticated systems can be considerably more. Start with what you can afford and add on from there over time. Don't forget that there could also be a monthly fee for an alarm service.
• Check out several alarm companies and what they have to offer. Most will come to your house and give you a free, detailed estimate of what their system will cost. Talk to friends and neighbours to see who they use and why they like them.
• Request a certificate you can give to your insurance company for a possible discount on homeowner's insurance. If the company is UL certified, you could get an even larger discount.
• Go with a company that's been in business for at least two years, get references before making your final decision, and know what's covered by their basic and extended warranties.
Once your new security system is programmed and installed, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from having ultimate control over your home's protection.
Luckily, home security came along for the ride into the 21st Century, with high-tech options that fit every lifestyle and ensure that both you and your possessions stay safe.
Security For The 21st Century
Today's home security is a marvel in high-tech engineering. If you have a laptop computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can operate every aspect of your home security system anytime, from anywhere as easily as if you were inside your home.
Because many of these systems operate wirelessly, the security touch pad or other system components can be strategically placed so intruders can't see them and where they won't interfere with appliances or computers. What's more, there are no wires to run along floors, walls or ceilings.
Programmable For Your Individual Needs
Almost every aspect of a modern home security system can be tailored to meet the needs of your specific living situation.
For example, older surveillance systems ran in real time, which meant you had to check a screen at regular intervals, often to see that nothing was happening. The new high-tech cameras can be programmed to ignore what's normal for your household--the kids coming home from school--to focus on something out of the ordinary--a package delivery or some suspicious activity--and send you an email with an attached video clip. No more checking a screen every few minutes.
Many homes have separate systems that monitor or control HVAC, fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and even inside and outside lighting. With a modern security system, you can combine all these into one programmable system that can be managed with a computer or smartphone.
If you own a vacation home far away from where you live, you can purchase an option to have your security system alert you if the pipes freeze or the basement floods.
Some systems are even designed so they can move with you from your old house to your new house without any ill effects.
How To Choose The Right System and Options
Before you start looking at new security systems, step back and consider a few things.
• Consider what features you really need in a security system and what you can live without. There are so many options that it can quickly become both confusing and overwhelming when you start to compare. It might be helpful to talk with a security expert for an opinion of what will work best in your home.
• Know what you want to spend. Basic alarm system components and installation cost around $500, but sophisticated systems can be considerably more. Start with what you can afford and add on from there over time. Don't forget that there could also be a monthly fee for an alarm service.
• Check out several alarm companies and what they have to offer. Most will come to your house and give you a free, detailed estimate of what their system will cost. Talk to friends and neighbours to see who they use and why they like them.
• Request a certificate you can give to your insurance company for a possible discount on homeowner's insurance. If the company is UL certified, you could get an even larger discount.
• Go with a company that's been in business for at least two years, get references before making your final decision, and know what's covered by their basic and extended warranties.
Once your new security system is programmed and installed, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from having ultimate control over your home's protection.
