home alarm system features Archives - Page 3 of 3

The Future Of Home Security Systems Has Arrived

Alarm systems have come a long way in the past few years, allowing homeowners in Lubbock, Texas to have the best home security systems possible. The days of needing a dedicated phone line and hard-wired sensors are gone and modern security systems have developed to better fit today’s technological world. New technologies are transforming the way home security systems work with the introduction of wireless features and the ability to store information on the the cloud.

Wireless home security systems

Landline phones were the only connection options available to most homeowners looking for home security just a couple of decades ago. Today, landlines are no longer necessary for alarm systems, although they can still be used. Most modern home security systems are wireless. Instead of relying on a landline to communicate with the security company, newer home security systems in Lubbock, Texas and other areas use wireless connections. The systems communicate with the nearest cellular tower and send messages to the alarm company.

Wireless connectivity has eliminated one of the biggest vulnerabilities of home security systems. Burglars became quite adept at identifying alarm system landlines and cutting them before entering a property. With wireless connectivity, burglars can no longer stop an alarm system from triggering. The alarm system continues to work even if the burglar cuts everything going into the house.

Storing home security system information on the cloud

In the past, all of the settings for a home security system were contained in the central control panel. When the system was installed, the Lubbock technician would program the control panel to operate as the homeowner needed it to. This programming process required the technician to go through many settings one at a time and often took an hour or more to complete.

The biggest vulnerability of older programming methods is what might happen if the control panel is damaged. The technician must go to the residence with the alarm system, replace the control panel, and then reprogram it.

With wireless home security systems, homeowners in Lubbock, Texas do not have to worry about damaging the control panel. Instead of having all the programming contained in one central control panel, the settings can be controlled and stored in the cloud. The cloud refers to a storage area containing many computers, so the information can be accessed through the internet. The homeowner can change settings via a smartphone application and the alarm company can reprogram a control panel remotely. Using the cloud to program alarm system information eliminates extra work and makes it possible to adjust security settings quickly.

Modern technology has transformed the world of home security systems, so it is now possible to have home security without the worry and stress of non-wireless systems. At 1st Alarm, we can provide you with a wireless home security system that best meets your needs. To learn more about how to secure your home or business in Lubbock, Texas, call 1(800) 276-5559. You can also email us for more information or get a price quote today.

How To Monitor Home Security Systems With A Smart Device

Many electronic devices and products being released today are wireless. You can connect to just about anything, anywhere, without a cable attached to your electronic devices. You can even connect to your home security system using a smart device, which means you can see if your security system is armed from almost anywhere.

How to use a smart device to monitor your home security system

Most modern alarm systems are connected to monitoring centers via wireless connections. Alarms and updates are sent to a cell tower, which relays messages and alerts to the monitoring service. The same wireless signals can also be used to alert homeowners via smart devices.

To connect, the device will need a special application, usually provided by the monitoring service. This app connects to the home security system and can send out alerts, both emergency and non-urgent, as specified by the homeowner. These alerts allow you to see what is going on, and react as needed. Some monitoring apps offer two-way options and the ability to arm and disarm the system remotely.

What kind of home security systems can you monitor?

For you to have remote connectivity, you will need a home security system that has a compatible connection. Older alarm systems may not have a wireless option available and it may also not be available on newer systems that cost less. Contact your home security system provider and ask if you can have remote access using a smart device. The alarm system provider can review your current system and let you know if it is possible to have a wireless connection. If you don’t have the option of connecting to your alarm system with a smart device, the provider may recommend certain upgrades to allow for remote access.

Other available options for monitoring your home with a smart device

The remote access you gain with your home security system can be extended to home automation. This wireless option allows you to monitor and control other systems within your home, including the thermostat of your HVAC system and internal security cameras.

One application gives you the ability to monitor your security system and other systems within your home. The same application can monitor your activities and give you suggestions on how to further customize your automation to suit you and your family’s needs.

If you are interested in having remote access to your security system, or to add home automation to your residence, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm. We provide alarm services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo. You can reach us at (1800) 276-5559 or Contact Us by email with your questions, or to get a price quote.

Myths and Facts About Home Alarm Systems

Home alarm systems have sometimes been the subject of myths and have been seen as an unneeded luxury for many homes. However, it is important to know the myths and facts about home alarm systems so you can make an informed decision about your security. Myths about home security systems include that they are only for the rich and that homes are no more safe with them as without them. It has also been falsely thought that installation of the systems requires wiring the entire house and that they are not worth the cost. Another common myth is that home alarm systems do not work well with pets.

The myth that home alarm systems are only for the rich

A few decades ago, the myth that only the rich could afford home security systems was actually a fact. Systems were expensive and installation was highly complicated. The monitoring services were costly and required a dedicated phone line for connectivity. However, home security systems have now become affordable. The equipment is connected wirelessly and does not require complicated installation. Alarm system monitoring can be done for a low monthly fee and wireless systems are now available.

The myth that homes with alarm systems are no more secure than those without

The myth that homes with security systems are not secure has been proven wrong by convicted thieves. Many thieves confess that they target homes without security systems, because they can get in and out quickly, without alerting the homeowner or police. Even a basic home security system provides protection against burglary. Thieves often bypass homes that just have a alarm company sign outside.

The myth that installation of home alarm systems requires wiring the entire house

Wireless devices have revolutionized the home security market in the past few years. Just a decade or so ago, all sensors and cameras in the home had to be connected via wires, which required special tools and equipment. Now, it is possible to set sensors on windows and doors in just a few minutes. These sensors use batteries for power and wireless signals for connection. Security cameras are also just as easy to install and connect. Even the central monitoring device is wirelessly connected to the monitoring service.

The myth that having a home alarm system is not worth the cost

People often question whether adding an alarm system to their home is a good investment or not. Some even consider having a security system a waste of money. However, you should consider what you could be losing if your home is not equipped with a security system. Not only could you lose thousands of dollars worth of belongings, but you can also lose your peace of mind. With a home security system, you get 24/7 security to protect your home, family, and your peace of mind.

The myth that home alarm systems do not work well with pets

Older motion detectors were susceptible to going off if the family pet triggered the system. The detectors used technology that triggered with any kind of movement, so this myth was a fact at one point in time. The false alarms often led to people turning off motion detectors all together or confining the pets to a single, un-monitored area of the house. However, technology has has made it possible to avoid false alarms caused by the presence of pets. Advanced motion detectors can be calibrated to ignore certain kinds of motion or the movement of small bodies, allowing for more efficient security.

Understanding the myths and facts about alarm systems will help you determine if such a system is right for your home. If you are interested in learning more, contact the professionals at 1st Alarm. We provide alarm services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo. You can call us at (1800) 276-5559 for more information about our products and services or email us with your questions and concerns, or to get a price quote.

Pet Friendly Home Alarm Systems

In the past, pets created complications for home alarm systems. A dog or a cat would walk through a room or through the pet door, triggering the alarm. Often, the situation would cause homeowners to choose between confining their pets or getting rid of the home alarm system because it was not pet friendly. However, modern home alarm systems allow pets to move freely in the home, without triggering the system. It is important to understand how older systems and modern systems relate to being pet friendly. Understanding alarm technology can help you know what to do if you have pets and need an alarm system.

Why home alarm systems were not pet friendly

Motion detectors were often the cause of the false alarms due to pet motion. Motion detectors work by sensing the movement of warm objects through a space. The movement of a warm-blooded animal, like a cat or dog, could trip the detectors in the alarm systems.

False alarms triggered by pets end up being a problem for homeowners, the security company, and the police. The monitoring service will call the police any time an unexplained alarm goes off. Police do not like being called out multiple times for false alarms and the situation could cause the police to fine homeowners for false alarms. In many cases, monitoring services will cut off service if the cause of false alarms cannot be eliminated.

Why modern home alarm systems are pet friendly

The technology behind motion detectors has gotten more sophisticated in recent years. Instead of being triggered by the simple motion of a warm object, modern detectors look for both warm objects and the way they move. Motion detectors are now specifically designed to eliminate objects that are animal sized and that move like animals. This alarm system technology advancement has practically eliminated the possibility of false alarms triggered by household pets.

What should you do if you have pets and want a home alarm system?

Don’t be tempted to install a do-it-yourself alarm system, especially if you have pets. Most of the do-it-yourself kits include the lowest cost motion detectors on the market. These detectors are often older technology, which is not pet friendly. If you want an alarm system for your home, and you have pets, contact a professional home security company. Security companies have access to a wide assortment of detectors and alarms that are pet-friendly. The companies can configure your system to give you the protection you need, without the need to confine your pets.

If you would like more information about pet friendly home alarm systems, give the security experts at 1st Alarm a call. You can reach us at 1 (800) 276-5559 or send us an email with your questions and concerns, or to get a price quote. We provide services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

Alarm Systems Are Not Just For The Wealthy Anymore

Do you think that an alarm system is out of your price range? Twenty-five years ago, home security systems would have been too expensive for the average homeowner. Before the 1990’s, security companies mainly served the commercial market. The only residences that had alarm systems were the wealthy and upper middle class. The good news is that home alarm systems are no longer just for the wealthy. The price of home alarm systems changed during the 1990’s, so they are now affordable. Due to the affordability of alarm systems, you should consider whether you need one for your home.

The price of home alarm systems changed during the 1990’s

In the early 1990’s, security companies started to look for new customers, because they had covered most of the business and the wealthy residential market. The problem was that security products were too expensive for typical homeowners.

Residential property owners in middle and working class neighborhoods could not justify paying thousands of dollars for an alarm system, even to protect their property. Homeowners took their chances and hoped that criminals would bypass their properties, even when property crimes were on the increase. Many homeowners found their homes burglarized and vandalized.

Security companies started to realize that there was a vast market of residential properties that were being left vulnerable, because they had no affordable security options. This realization triggered one of the biggest changes in the security industry.

Affordable alarm systems

To tap into the middle-class residential market, security companies began innovating and making their products and services more affordable. Within a short time, homeowners found that the cost of alarm systems started to decrease. Lower costs made it possible for many homeowners to add security systems to their homes.

As technology has advanced, alarm systems have remained affordable, while offering more and more options. Today’s systems no longer depend on a hard-wired phone line, using wireless capabilities instead. Homeowners can start with a simple alarm system and expand it as needed. Video cameras, motion detectors, and window or door detectors are a part of many home alarm systems. Almost all systems come with 24/7 monitoring services.

Do you need an alarm system?

With affordable alarm systems available, you need to assess whether you require one for your home security.

Consider if anyone in your neighborhood has been burglarized recently or if you live in one of the safest areas of your city. Even if you do live in a safe area, property crimes can occur. Most police departments can help you find out if your neighborhood is vulnerable to crime.

Do you have valuables that you would like to keep safe, like electronics, antiques, or valuable collections? These items are all things you need to protect from burglars and other intruders. A small monthly monitoring fee is a low price to pay for protecting your high-value items. You should also consider that home alarm systems protect your family from intruders. An alarm system offers a protective barrier between your family and an criminal. If someone tries to break in, you can contact the monitoring service without alerting the intruder, which can help keep your family safe.

Investing in an alarm system is now an affordable option for many households and can help you protect your home, your possessions, and your family. At 1st Alarm, we offer a wide range of alarm systems and services to help protect what’s important to you. You can call us at 1 (800) 276-5559 or send us an email with your questions and concerns, or to get a price quote.

Home Alarm Systems Are Kid Friendly

There is a misconception that home alarm systems are not kid friendly. Many years ago, home security systems were often too complex for children to arm or disarm, making it very easy for them to trigger the alarm. This vulnerability made many parents hesitant to add a security system to their homes, even when their children were home alone. Today’s technological advances in home alarm systems have made them very kid-friendly. These advanced alarm systems offer kid friendly security, as well as other benefits to parents other than protection from intruders.

Home alarm systems offer kid friendly security

Many households in Lubbock, Texas have kids who are home alone on occasion. The kids get out of school before a parent gets off from work. Maybe a child does not require a babysitter, but the parents need reassurance that their child is safe. Another instance in which children are more secure with a security system is when teenagers need to stay home while their parents are away.

Modern home alarm systems offer protection to children who are home alone in Lubbock Texas. Instead of requiring a child to run to the alarm pad to enter a disarming code, they can use a keychain pad. The keychain pad drastically reduces the chances of false alarms and is more kid friendly. Door and window sensors can send an automatic notification if someone tries to get in and smoke detectors can alert the child if a fire breaks out. Cameras offer a way to view entry ways, the backyard, or the pool, without ever leaving the home.

Having a security system in place is beneficial for both parents and their kids. Parents get peace of mind knowing that their kids are safe at home. The monitoring service is just an alarm away if a problem occurs, which reassures children that they are safe until their parents get home.

Home alarm systems offer more to parents than protection from intruders

Besides protecting your kids when they are home alone, alarm systems offer many more benefits to parents. Using interior cameras tied to the alarm system, and viewable online, a parent can monitor when a child enters or exits the property in Lubbock, Texas. Video monitoring is one way to unobtrusively ensure that a kid is where he or she is supposed to be at the right time.

Home alarm systems offer the child a way to call for emergency services in Lubbock. Accidents can happen at any time, including sudden illnesses. Being able to contact the monitoring service via the alarm system means the kids can get emergency help as quickly as possible. Home alarm systems can be set up to monitor for carbon dioxide, which protects the child from dangers that cannot be seen.

Protect your kids with a kid-friendly home alarm system. The security experts at 1st Alarm can help you set-up a security system that will protect your kids, yourself, and emergencies. You can call us at 1-800-276-5559 or send us an email with your questions or concerns, or to get a price quote. We provide alarm services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

5 Questions You Must Answer Before Choosing A Security Camera

Having a home security system is great for keeping your family safe and adding video surveillance can increase your level of protection. However, you must consider these five questions before you choose your security cameras: Where do you want to install security cameras and what level of video quality do you need? Do you need night vision and do you want hidden or visible security cameras? Do you want to be able to see video footage from anywhere or just from one location? Answering these questions can help you decide what type of security cameras you need for your home video surveillance system.

Where do you want to install security cameras?

Consider where you need the protection of home video surveillance the most. Exterior security cameras are a good option for monitoring people who are on your property and can allow you to identify possible thieves and criminals. If outdoor cameras do not deter a break in, interior security cameras can record the criminal activities. Hidden interior cameras are also an option for your surveillance system. These security cameras can monitor nannies and other household employees as well as unwelcome guests.

What level of video quality do you need?

Video quality for home video surveillance improves each year. Today, you can choose from three levels in home security video quality: General, forensic and high detail.

General detail video is very low resolution and can only give you shapes and colors. Forensic detail video offers higher quality and can help identify faces and license plates. High detail video has very high quality resolution, offering the ability to see fine printing and logos on shirts.

Do you need night vision security cameras?

Night vision security cameras are more expensive than their daylight only counterparts, but they offer the assurance of recording events even during the nighttime. If you have proper lighting around your home, night vision is usually not needed.

Do you want hidden or visible security cameras?

Most people want visible security cameras on the exterior of their home. These cameras act as a deterrent to criminals and make it obvious to everyone that they are being observed.

Inside the home, hidden cameras are often chosen. You probably do not want your guests in your home knowing that you have security cameras. Plus, if you want to monitor the nanny or the housekeeper, you want to do it in secret.

Do you want to be able to see video footage from anywhere?

With modern home video surveillance cameras, you have the option of being able to see footage through your cell phone. You can monitor when the kids get home or if a package is dropped off at the door by having an internet connection to the feed. However, adding an internet video feed may increase costs to your monthly monitoring charges from the security company.

If you are looking for home video surveillance or a home security system, let the experts at 1st Alarm guide you to the right system for your needs. Call us today at 1(800) 276-5559. You can also connect with us via email or visit us in person. We provide alarm services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

How Does A Home Security System Door Sensor Work?

Door sensors are a basic part of your home’s security system. This wireless home security system feature provides a barrier to the vulnerable entry points into your house. Door sensors use electrical circuits to work. However, this home security system feature will fail eventually unless properly maintained. Understanding how wireless home security system door sensors work will help you understand more about how to secure your house.

Door sensors use electrical circuits to work

Electricity needs a clear path through which to flow. This electrical path is usually referred to as a circuit. An electrical circuit begins at one point and ends at the same point, in a continuous path. If that path is closed, the electricity continues to flow. However, if there is a break in the path, the electricity cannot flow.

Door sensors use electrical circuits to work. The sensor has a source of electricity. In a wired home security system, that source is the home’s electrical feed. In a wireless home security system, that source is a battery installed in the sensor.

Home security system door sensors come in two parts. There is the piece secured to the door and the piece secured to the frame around the door. Each piece has a magnet. When the door is closed, the magnets are in contact. The electricity can flow through the magnets, completing the circuit. However, when the door is open, the magnets are apart, breaking the circuit.

When the electrical circuit is broken, this activates the home security system alarm. The sensor will send a signal back to the central control panel that the entry point has been opened.

Those that are authorized to enter the home have an access code that will disable the alarm. However, if no one enters a valid access code, the alarm is sent to the central monitoring service, who can contact emergency personnel as needed.

Eventually, door sensors will fail unless properly maintained

Door sensors, either wired or wireless, will fail eventually. Some mechanism inside the sensor will sustain damage or just wear out. If a door sensor in your home is malfunctioning, it is very important to replace it immediately. Until this feature is fixed, it is a point of vulnerability in your home security system.

If you have wireless door sensors, you need to make sure to test and change the batteries as recommended by the home security company. Having a dead battery means having a dead door sensor.

For more information on securing your home with door sensors and other security features, contact us here at 1st Alarm. We offer complete customizable home security systems. We have locations in the following Texas cities: Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo. Give us a call today at 1(800) 276-5559. Check out our website for more information about our company as well as our products and services. We look forward to providing you with the best home security system with the best features available.

Which Home Alarm System Features Are Right for Your Home?

Adding a home alarm system to your residence can be a challenge with so many features available. Which home alarm system features do you want? Which do you need? What would be too much? Now, most home alarm systems come in a basic package that includes some standard features. These standard home alarm system features can include glass break detectors, video cameras, smoke and fire detectors, water and flood sensors, and remote access. Glass break detectors will notify authorities anytime the sound of glass breaking occurs. Video cameras allow you to see what is going on at any time in and around your home. Smoke and fire protection gives you peace of mind while water and floor sensors can tell if you have a pipe or water heater burst. Above all, remote access to home gives you the highest level of control possible.

Glass break detectors will notify authorities anytime the sound of glass breaking occurs

If you have secured your windows and doors, burglars may have to break through glass to gain entry. A glass break detector will hear this noise and send out an alarm. You will have the ability to speak with emergency responders. You can also have the system take a picture or record video if the sound is heard.

Video cameras allow you to see what is going on at any time in and around your home

These cameras perform several functions such as capturing the acts and faces of any criminals that enter or exit your house. This home alarm system feature also allows you to see what is going on inside, using remote access. With this feature, you can check up on your kids or your elderly parents as needed. The home alarm system records anything it captures so that you can review it later or give it to police for prosecution purposes.

Smoke and fire protection gives you peace of mind

Thousands of house fires occur all around the country every day of the year. A stray spark from a cigarette, a worn wire, or an unattended stove are all reasons for fires starting. When you add smoke and fire protection to your home alarm system services, you have an extra layer of protection against losing your house and belongings. This home alarm system feature might even save your life.

Water and flood sensors can tell if you have a pipe or water heater burst, even when you are away on vacation

Pipes can freeze in winter and water heaters can start leaking at any time. With water and flood sensors, you don’t have to worry about any issues. As soon as water is detected, the home alarm system will alert you. You can tap into a live feed to see exactly what is going on.

Remote access to home gives you the highest level of control possible

It is very easy to forget to arm your home security system when you are running out the door in the mornings. With remote access, you can arm or disarm the home security system as needed without being present. You can even add home automation features that let you control several aspects of your home environment.

Each of these home alarm system features do add extra cost to the bottom line. However, if you want to make sure your property is secure, adding these features may be worthwhile to you and your peace of mind.

Looking for a home alarm system with customizable features? Contact 1st Alarm today! We have locations in the following Texas cities: Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo. Give us a call today at 1(800) 276-5559. You can also contact us via email. We look forward to providing you with the best home alarm system with the best features available.