wireless home security systems Archives - Page 9 of 9

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.

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.

Types Of Home Video Surveillance Cameras

You might think that one home video surveillance camera is just like the next one. The fact is that there are many different kinds of wireless home security systems. Knowing what each type is will help you choose the best one for your home or business. Types of home video surveillance cameras include hidden or visible, wireless, closed circuit television, domed, and fake.

Hidden or visible video surveillance cameras

You can mount home video surveillance cameras where they are easily seen or make them blend into the surroundings. Whether you want a hidden or visible type depends upon what you want to accomplish with your security system.

There are plenty of reasons why you would want to hide a camera. You might want to see what your nanny or housekeeper is doing when you are away. There are also plenty of reasons to make one visible. Criminals are less likely to target your home if they see home video surveillance cameras on the outside. Hidden types also allow you to mount recording devices where you need them, instead of only where they can’t be seen.

Wireless video surveillance cameras

Today, wireless security cameras are the most common type found in video surveillance systems. These recording devices can be mounted or set anywhere. Wireless types run off of battery power and can send their signals to the central unit via a wireless signal. These devices can also have on-board memory to capture video without sending it out. Because they are not tied to physical cables or wires, wireless video surveillance cameras can be moved as needed. Most wireless devices are mounted inside. However, there are models that are weatherproof that can be used outside.

Closed circuit television

Closed circuit television, or CCTV, is the classic choice when it comes to home video surveillance cameras. The CCTV system uses wired cameras that are cabled back to a central DVR and offers the ability to watch the feeds live on a monitor. A camera can be installed both inside and outside. This kind of home video surveillance system requires professional installation to work properly.

Domed video surveillance cameras

A domed camera usually mounts on the ceiling and offers a protected 360-degree view. This type is most often used in offices and retail establishments and can be hardened to prevent damage from vandalism. A domed camera is often blended into the background to make it less obvious. This way of disguising makes it easier to capture useful footage of dishonest activity.

Fake video surveillance cameras

These replicas do not record video. However, just the appearance of a fake camera can have the same deterrence level as a real one. This security product is affordable and simple to install.

These camera types are a few of the video surveillance options available for your home or business. You can use one kind or a mixture of types that work for your security needs. To get more information, contact us here at 1st Alarm. Give us a call at 1(800) 276-5559 or send us a message via email. We have locations in the following Texas cities: Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo.

The Basics Of A Wireless Home Security System

Most of today’s home security systems are wireless. If you are considering adding one to your home, it pays to understand how a wireless system works and how it differs from a wired version. This knowledge can help you make an informed decision between the two.

How does a wireless home security system work?

All home security systems are going to have a central control panel. Alarms go through this control panel and get routed to the monitoring service as needed. This control panel is where the homeowner can punch in access codes and manage alarm settings.

In a wired home security system, all the sensors and cameras in the house are hardwired into this control panel. With a wireless home security system, the sensors send their signals via radio waves to the central control panel.

Wireless sensors are placed at each entry point and at the windows. If someone opens a door or window, the wireless sensor sends an alert to the central control panel. The homeowner has a certain amount of time to enter an access code to keep the control panel from sending the alarm to the monitoring service. If no one enters an access code, the service receives the alarm and notifies the appropriate authorities.

A wireless home security system can also include cameras and motion sensors placed inside and outside. Cameras can be placed at any point around your house and be moved as needed. The same goes with motion sensors.

What are some of the key differences between wired and wireless home security systems?

Installation ease is a noticeable benefit of wireless over wired alarm systems. A wired home security system requires the installation team to pull wires through the walls and hooking them up to the central control panel. The intensive labor involved can quickly drive installation costs up.

Portability is another difference. Going wireless offers you the ability to move and reconfigure the sensors and cameras in your home security system, without the need to rewire.

Wireless sensors and cameras work on battery power. That means that even if the power goes out, your wireless home security system is still on the job.

Range can be almost double when it comes to a wireless home security system versus a wired one. That makes it easy to secure detached outbuildings without the need to run cable underground.

Cellular alarms are another benefit of wireless over wired alarm types. Most wired systems rely on a hard telephone line to send signals. However, many wireless home security systems use a cellular signal instead. This signal takes out the possibility of an intruder cutting the phone line.

Upgrades are very simple with a wireless home security system. You can switch sensors and cameras out without a lot of hassle. Plus, you can add additional wireless sensors and cameras without adding more hard wiring.

A wireless home security system is an affordable, flexible option for most homeowners. To learn more about adding this product to your house, contact us here at 1st Alarm. Give us a call today at 1(800) 276-5559. You can also contact us via email. We have locations in the following Texas cities: Midland, Odessa, Amarillo, Lubbock, Abilene, El Paso, and San Angelo. We look forward to providing you with the best home security system available.