home security Archives - Page 9 of 12

Home Alarm System Protection Levels

With so many home alarm system protection levels available, it can be difficult to decide which system is the best for your needs. You can choose a basic system for adequate protection or install a security system specifically made for your protection needs. Before choosing a home alarm system, it is important to understand the protection levels that basic alarm systems and monitored alarm systems can offer. You can also consider installing a home alarm system with motion detectors, one with cameras, and an alarm system with sophisticated features.

Protection level of a basic home alarm system

The simplest security you can have on your home is a door alarm. If someone comes through the door, the system will trigger a loud alarm. The loud noise will scare most intruders away. The downside to such a simple security system is that it is easy to disarm or avoid. If the home is isolated, someone may not hear the alarm going off.

Protection level of a monitored home alarm system

If you want something a bit more secure than a door alarm, a simple monitored home alarm system may be your best option. These systems include sensors on key entry points (windows, doors, etc.) which connect to a central control panel. A keypad attached to the control panel allows the homeowner to program and control the alarm system. When everyone is active, the system is disarmed. When everyone leaves, or is sleeping, the security system can be armed. If someone tries to enter the home at a sensored point, the alarm will be triggered if it is not disarmed in time. The control panel also sends out an alert to the monitoring service, who tries to contact the homeowner and the local authorities.

Protection level of a home alarm system with motion detectors

A basic monitored home alarm system is enough for many homeowners to feel protected. However, there are options that can make a simple system a bit more sophisticated, including motion detectors.

Motion detectors will trigger lights or alarms if motion is detected within a monitored perimeter. In the past, motion detectors got a bad reputation for being triggered if a cat or dog walked by. Technology has improved detectors, however, preventing these kinds of false alarms. Motion detectors are great for detecting movement through indoor and outdoor areas that should have no one in them.

Protection level of a home alarm system with video surveillance

It is impossible to watch every area within your home, even if you are at home. A home alarm system with video surveillance cameras allow you to see what is happening around your property, whether you are away or at home.

Exterior cameras, placed in optimum positions, can capture footage of people entering and exiting your property from many angles. Interior cameras, usually hidden, can tell you if your nanny or housekeeper are doing their jobs correctly. If the surveillance cameras are hooked into a live internet feed, you can see what is happening through a mobile device.

Surveillance cameras are great for identifying problems that you suspect, but cannot prove. Cameras can also capture video footage of criminals, which helps if prosecution if necessary.

Protection level of a home alarm system with sophisticated features

The best home alarm systems have surveillance cameras and motion detectors. However, there are other options available that give your security system even higher levels of protection.

There are detectors that let you know if glass within your home is broken. Some burglars will break through a pane of glass at the door or window to unlock it from the inside, so this feature greatly enhances safety.

Pressure mats can slide undetected under rugs. If someone steps on the pressure mat, an alarm is triggered. This feature is good for detecting an intruder when someone vulnerable is home, such as an elderly parent or small child.

Panic buttons allow an individual to set off an alert, without the need for a phone. The individual wears a pendant or bracelet with a panic button imbedded. If a situation arises where the individual needs help, a simple press of the panic button will contact local emergency personnel.

Once you have done research and decided what level of security your home needs, you can decide on a home alarm system. Call the security experts at 1st Alarm today at 1(800) 276-5559 to find out about installing your own security system. You can also send us an email for more information about our products and services or to get a quote. We provide services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

How To Choose The Best Home Alarm System

When you decide to purchase a home alarm system, it may be difficult to decide on what features you need. Before you start calling alarm companies, you need to do some basic research. This preliminary work will help you determine the features you need in your new security system. After you have done some research, you can begin to decide which home alarm system is the best for your family.

Do some basic research about home alarm systems

Home security system features range from basic to elaborate. Most homeowners find that a mid-range alarm system best fits their requirements while staying within a reasonable budget. One way to conduct research about what alarm system features you need is to survey your home.

Count the number of windows and doors you will need to monitor with the security system. Include all entry doors and any windows which are particularly vulnerable to intruders. You should also determine where you want the control panel located. The panel is what controls the entire security system. This panel should be somewhere close to the middle of your home, so that it can connect easily with sensors, motion detectors, and other system features.

Decide where the keypads need to go within your home. The keypads are where you program the control panel and arm or disarm the alarm system. Most alarm systems have a keypad at the main entry door. You can also have additional pads in other areas of the home, such as near bedrooms or by the garage door.

Consider whether you would like a wired or wireless home security system. A wired alarm system used to be the only choice available. Running wire through existing walls is labor intensive and expensive. If you are building a home, you might consider adding a wired security system. Modern home security systems tend to be wireless, however. It is cheaper and more flexible to install a wireless alarm system. Wireless systems also make it easy to increase or decrease the size of the system.

When looking for the best home alarm system, consider various features of each system. Cameras are great for capturing video of people who enter your property, whether invited or not. Motion detectors can be triggered if an intruder gets past your window and door sensors. Many home security systems allow for integration of fire and carbon monoxide detectors, as well. Your sense of security will likely be enhanced with these features, although they do come with a higher price tag.

Making a choice on the best home alarm system

Once your preliminary survey is done, you can start talking to home alarm system companies. It is best to talk with at least two companies, though more is better. Talking to alarm companies allows you to get a good idea of the pricing and features available for different systems.

Let the security company do its own survey of your home. This survey allows the company to see exactly what your property looks like and how the security layout would work. Be available to answer any questions for the company representative.

Consider the interfaces the security company provides. You want a user-friendly interface that everyone in the family can use. The alarm system should not involve a complicated process or require constant use of a user’s manual to do routine tasks.

Review the security company’s recommendations, because they may offer options you did not know existed. You may find that the recommendations of one company are very different than those of another.

You should also ask questions of the alarm company, if you have any. If one company offers an extremely low or high bid, you should ask why. You can also ask why each company recommended the features that they did. This information will help you determine the best home alarm system for your needs.

Once you complete all of your research, you will have enough information to determine which security system is right for your home. If you would like more information about home alarm systems, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm. You can call us at 1(800) 276-5559 or send us an email for more information about our products and services, or to get a quote. We provide services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

Benefits Of CCTV Video Security Systems

CCTV (closed circuit television) has been the foundation of video security systems for decades. CCTV has become the favorite of businesses who want to deter shoplifters and vandals. The popularity of this type of video surveillance system has made it a favorite with homeowners as well. CCTV offers certain benefits for commercial and residential properties in Lubbock, Texas that other security systems cannot match. These benefits include preventing theft, promoting adherence to protocols, and preventing vandalism. CCTV security systems offer convenient remote viewing, increase chances of criminal prosecution, and decrease chances of fraudulent insurance claims. CCTV security systems also offer employee surveillance, lower insurance premiums, and off peace of mind.

CCTV video security systems prevent theft

CCTV surveillance prevents shoplifting and other forms of theft. Thieves do not like their activities captured on video. In a retail store, prominent cameras can keep shoplifters away. Cameras also deter burglars who want to enter a property after dark.

CCTV video security systems promote adherence to protocol

Having a CCTV video security system promotes adherence to health and safety practices. Businesses have an obligation to keep the workplace safe for employees and customers alike. Video can help determine if employees are following proper procedures and practices for your business in Lubbock. Video footage can also serve as a training tool for what to do and what not to do in certain situations.

Vandalism can be prevented with CCTV video security systems

Using a CCTV video security system can help prevent vandalism. Outdoor surveillance cameras act as a deterrent by showing vandals that they will be recorded if they commit a crime. If a vandal sees a camera, that person is less likely to do damage and if they do commit a crime, it will be recorded.

CCTV video security systems offer remote viewing

Remote viewing is one of the wonders of the Internet age. CCTV systems can be tied into the network, allowing Lubbock property owners and the monitoring service to see what is going on in front of the cameras. Video footage is also helpful in guiding police and emergency workers to the right spot on a property during an emergency.

CCTV video security footage increases chances of criminal prosecution

CCTV surveillance increases the chances of criminal prosecution once a criminal is caught. If the cameras capture the face of a criminal in the act of a crime, the chances of a successful prosecution are higher.

CCTV security systems decrease chances of fraudulent insurance claims

Video security systems decrease the chances of fraudulent insurance claims. Today’s world is highly litigious and people often sue over just about anything. A simple bump against a display may turn into a someone claiming they have an injury that requires extensive treatment. Video surveillance footage can show exactly what occurred in situations where insurance claims are involved.

CCTV security systems offer employee surveillance

CCTV video surveillance systems make it possible to monitor activities within a business or home in Lubbock, Texas. Business owners can monitor their employees, but household employees can also be monitored with this system. Many families have a housekeeper or nanny to help with things around their home. That person is often left in the house without the homeowners being present. Hidden surveillance cameras can give the homeowner proof of the employee’s activities if they do something unethical or commit a crime.

CCTV video security systems can lower insurance premiums

The benefit of having lower insurance premiums is one that many Lubbock property owners don’t consider. A full security system, including video surveillance, can lower insurance premiums by up to 20 percent. These savings can actually help pay for the security system and save you money in the future.

CCTV video security systems offer peace of mind

Having a video surveillance system offers business owners and homeowners peace of mind. When you know that you have video protection in place, it promotes a sense of security that can’t be found with other types of security systems.

If you are interested in adding a video surveillance system to your home or business in Lubbock, Texas, contact the security experts at 1st Alarm. You can call us at 1(800) 276-5559 or send us an email with your questions and concerns. You can also email us to get a quote. We provide services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

Selecting A Video Security System That Meets Your Needs

A good video security system will protect you and your property in Lubbock, Texas, so selecting a system that meets your needs is important. A video security system will alert you when someone tries to intrude on your property and will protect you and your home. Using video surveillance is a great way to capture evidence in case someone commits a criminal act.

There are many reasons to invest in a video security system, but you must determine what your needs are before purchasing a system. You can determine where to place cameras on your Lubbock property, consider what video quality you need, and decide where you will place the recording equipment. Finally, determine whether you need a monitored video security system.

Determine where to place video security cameras on your property

The first thought many people consider before getting a video security system is how many cameras are needed. However, it is best to determine where cameras will be placed before deciding how many are needed. Consider where criminals would most likely be entering your home in Lubbock, Texas. Doors, windows, gates, and garage doors are all likely entry points. Some of these entry points are better for criminals because they are hidden from neighbors’ site lines or the road.

Visualizing where you want security cameras is a good way to get started. Before you purchase a video security system, you should create a plan about where the cameras will go and what direction they will be facing. A sketch of your Lubbock property will help you lay this plan out and possibly help you identify areas that need coverage that you didn’t consider before. The sketch becomes your working guide in directing the system installation.

Video security cameras can be hidden or placed in visible positions around your home. Many Lubbock homeowners use both hidden and visible cameras to get the best security coverage.

Hidden cameras are great for capturing what is going on around your property, without anyone being aware of the surveillance. Hidden video cameras are good for monitoring the activities of employees such as housekeepers or nannies.

Visible cameras are great for deterring criminal activities. Burglars and other criminals depend on stealth to commit their crimes. Criminals are less likely to approach a property that has visible security cameras that are ready to capture their activities.

Consider what video quality you need from a video security system

The quality of video you get from a particular camera depends on how many frames per second (fps) it captures. You can get cameras that capture anywhere from 8 fps to 30 fps. For most residential video security systems, 15 fps will provide adequate security by capturing enough detail to identify a criminal.

Another factor in video quality is how well cameras capture details at night. Some video security cameras only work well in moderate to high light levels. If you need to capture video during the night, you may want a camera that captures infrared light. You can determine how well a camera captures footage at night by checking the lux rating. A lower lux rating will indicate that the camera is better for capturing night footage.

Decide where you will keep the video security recording equipment

You will need DVRs to capture what your security cameras are seeing. The equipment needs to be in a secure area that is hard for most people to access. In a home, this area might be in a secured room or closet. The recording equipment can also be secured in a DVR lock box.

The DVR may need to be located close to the network router. The recording equipment should also have an Uninterruptable Power Source (UPS) to protect against power outages and power surges.
Decide if you need a monitored video security system

A video security system is only one part of securing your home in Lubbock, Texas. Consider what would happen if a criminal decided to enter your home when you are not there. Video cameras will capture a person entering the home, but will not alert anyone to the activities going on.

The best solution is to install a full security system that includes video surveillance. These systems come with monitoring services. If someone tries to break into your home, an alarm will go off and an alert will go to the monitoring service. The monitoring can call the police and alert you immediately to what is going on in your home.

Adding a video security system to your home in Lubbock, Texas is a good investment into your home and family’s safety. 1st Alarm can help you select a video security system that meets your needs. Call us today at 1(800) 276-5559 for more information or send us an email with your questions and concerns. You can also get a quote for a security system. We have locations in the following Texas cities: Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

Consider What You Need In A Video Surveillance System

When considering installing a video surveillance system in your home, it can be easy to get caught up in the number of available options. You can end up spending thousands of dollars on a state-of-the-art system, but do you need all available options or a basic system? Two of the most important things to consider are your options for video surveillance cameras and how you will capture the camera’s feed.

Considering options for video surveillance cameras

Video surveillance is what allows you to see what is going on around your home, even when you are not there. Cameras come with a number of options and upgrades that can enhance the details of what you can see.

Video quality is one important factor to consider when choosing a camera for your video surveillance system. Surveillance cameras don’t take the same quality video that you see on television or at the movies. A typical camera used for home security captures between 8 and 15 frames per second (fps). Casinos and police video surveillance systems use cameras that capture 30 fps. There is no need to choose cameras with the highest fps rate on the market. A camera with a 15 fps rate will capture enough detail to identify most people who come within its range.

Do you need movement capabilities like tilt, zoom, or panning for your surveillance cameras? When you add movement to a camera, you are adding a lot of cost as well. Most home security cameras are fixed in one position, pointing at a specific view (front door, driveway, back door, etc.). In most cases, you are not going to be actively monitoring the surveillance camera. Not being at home to monitor the camera defeats the purpose of being able to actively move and adjust the camera’s angle.

Consider if you would like your cameras to see clearly at night. Intruders often use the cover of darkness to mask their approach, so having cameras equipped with some form of night vision can be useful. Infrared cameras use LEDs to create the infrared light the camera can see.

You can also consider whether you would like color or black and white camera footage. Having color cameras in a home security system may seem logical. However, color footage can actually be a detriment. Color cameras do not get the best resolution in low light conditions, while black and white cameras have good resolution in low light. In addition, color cameras are more expensive than black and white cameras.

Capturing the video surveillance camera feed

Besides cameras, you will need a device that captures what the cameras are seeing. In the past, capturing video surveillance was done with a VCR and an endless amount of video tape. Today, DVRs are the standard recording devices for video surveillance systems.

DVRs connect to cameras using cables or through a wireless connection. A DVR can only handle a certain number of cameras or wireless channels. Most DVRs can handle four or eight channels, so if your home has four cameras, you can use a single four-channel DVR. If you have five or more cameras, you will need to choose whether to use a single eight-channel DVR or two four-channel DVRs.

You also need to consider how much storage a DVR has. An older DVR might offer 30 gigabytes that can capture 30 hours of black and white footage. Modern DVRs have 500 gigabytes (0.5 terabyte) and are considered sufficient for video surveillance systems that monitor 24/7. Of course, you can add more storage space if needed, but that is an additional cost to your video surveillance system.

The best way to address your home’s security needs is to have a professional assess your situation and provide recommendations. The experts at 1st Alarm can help you choose a home security system or video surveillance system for your home. Call us today at 1(800) 276-5559 or send us an email with your questions and concerns or to get a quote. We provide services throughout West Texas and the Texas Panhandle, with locations in Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

How The Right Video Surveillance System Will Make Your Home Safer

Even if you live in a great neighborhood with little to no crime, safety is still an important issue. You need to take whatever steps you can to ensure the security of your family and your home. Adding a video surveillance system to your property can make your home safer and give you peace of mind at the same time. Having video surveillance added to your home security system allows you to monitor outdoor and indoor activity and protects against crime. The wireless capability of video surveillance within a security system allows you to monitor your home and family from almost anywhere. If you’re really serious about improving the security of your home, you may also want to click here to look at private hire security and groundstaff.

Monitor indoor activity with a video surveillance system

You can monitor the activity happening within your home with a video surveillance system. You trust your nanny to care for your children when you are at work, but is that trust placed in the right person? Most nannies are good childcare providers and do not mistreat the children they watch. However, a hidden camera can help you confirm that your nanny is trustworthy.

Video surveillance systems can let you monitor anyone within your home, not just nannies. If you have a housekeeper who comes to your home, you need to make sure that person is doing his or her job properly. A video surveillance system can help you do verify your housekeeper is legitimate. You can make the cameras visible or install hidden ones. A quick review of your home security system video surveillance feeds will tell you what is going on within your home.

Monitor outdoor activity with a video surveillance system

A video surveillance system gives you a record of what is happening on and around your property. Do you suspect the neighborhood kids of using your front yard as a playground when you’re not home? You may be wondering about other issues or strange occurrences. By adding video surveillance to your home security system, you can monitor your outdoor property, even when you are not home.

A video surveillance system can protect you against crime

Video surveillance systems offer a record in case criminal charges need to be filed. A home security system can alert the authorities if someone tries to break into your home. However, a video surveillance system can capture footage of a criminal’s face and their actions. Having security footage is priceless when it comes to prosecuting a thief or vandal.

Having a video surveillance system can act as a crime deterrent. Criminals don’t want their faces captured when committing a crime. Cameras mounted in prominent places can help deter thieves, vandals, and other criminals from targeting your home.

Wireless capability of a video surveillance system

The wireless capability of video surveillance systems allow you to see what is going on from almost anywhere. Many video surveillance systems allow you to access live feeds via the internet. You can be at work and see if your kids got home from school on time or if your family pet is getting into trouble. You can even check to see if a package was left at your front door.

If you are interested in adding video surveillance to your home security system, contact the experts at 1st Alarm. You can call us at (1-800) 276-5559. You can also send us an email to learn more about our products and services or 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.

Wireless Home Security Systems Create An Invisible Force Field

With today’s advances in home security systems, having an invisible force field protecting your home In Lubbock, Texas is not just something of science fiction. Wireless home security systems provide an invisible perimeter around your house, protecting you, your family, and your property.

In the past, wireless alarm systems were considered inferior to hard-wired systems. However, new technologies have overcome most of the issues with wireless systems, making them superior to hard-wired systems in many ways. It is important to understand the benefits of protecting your Lubbock home with a wireless security system, as well as any potential downfalls.

Protecting your home with a wireless security system

Wireless home security systems are easy to install and program. Older alarms required installing wires through walls and attic spaces to connect sensors to the central alarm console, which was time consuming and expensive. These negative aspects of home security systems put them out of the reach for most residential property owners.

Older home security systems also connect to the monitoring service using a landline, which is not as convenient as wireless systems. Burglars can easily cut the landline wires, rendering the alarm useless.

Installing and programming a wireless home security system is much easier and safer than using an older alarm system. The technicians in Lubbock, Texas can place sensors wherever you want them, with the most basic systems having sensors in the doorways along the entire house. When the alarm sensor is activated, it connects wirelessly to the central console.

Each alarm sensor has its own battery, so installation of wireless sensors require no wiring whatsoever. Portable sensors make it easy to customize an alarm system during installation, and afterwards. If a Lubbock homeowner wants to add additional sensors, it can be done quickly and easily. If an alarm sensor needs to be relocated, it only needs to be moved. Rewiring or reprogramming the entire home security system is not necessary. The ease of installing a wireless home security system is why it has a minimal cost when compared to a traditional wired alarm system.

Are there any downfalls with wireless home security systems?

Wireless home security systems use radio signals to communicate. One concern with wireless options is that radio interference can interrupt the signals between the sensors, the central console, and ultimately the monitoring service. If there is an issue with radio interference, a signal could be lost if someone tries to enter a window or door with a sensor.

Alarm companies have recognized the problem of radio interference, however, and have addressed it. Home security systems can now actively block radio interference on the frequencies alarm companies use, keeping the system secure and working smoothly.

If you would like more information about wireless home security systems, call the experts at 1st Alarm in Lubbock, Texas. You can call us at 1(800) 276-5559, send us an email to find out more about our products and services, or get a quote. We have locations in the following Texas cities: Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

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.