Home Security Systems for Beginners

At some point or another, many homeowners must decide whether they should get a home security system. This decision can have a big impact on a homeowner's quality of life and might even help sell a home for more money. Understanding the differences between the major types of security systems, and knowing the benefits of each, can help you decide whether a security system is right for you.

Why Get a Home Security System?

Home security systems offer peace of mind to homeowners. After a break-in, many homeowners spend months or years trying to feel comfortable in their own home again. Home security systems can help prevent this problem from occurring, and can also help homeowners feel safe in their own home.

Some types of home security systems can also help catch criminals. Many video-surveillance systems will catch people in the act of doing things that they should not do, and can help police identify and catch those criminals.

Finally, some types of home security systems also help homeowners monitor the everyday activity in their home. For example, many systems can alert homeowners when a door is opened or a portion of the house is accessed. For homeowners who are at work and expecting package deliveries, or for homeowners who are expecting their children to come home from school soon, this kind of information can be invaluable.

What Kinds of Home Security Systems are On the Market?

In general, there are two different types of home security: monitored and unmonitored. Monitored systems are connected to a centralized office, usually a home security company, that can react when a home security breach takes place. Homeowners pay for a subscription to these systems, though the system itself may be installed for free or little money.

Unmonitored systems often connect to the homeowner's cell phone, so the homeowner is able to receive updates when changes take place at the house. For example, when the doorbell rings, the homeowner might get a ping on their phone. If the system is patched into a front door video camera, the homeowner might also be able to see an image of the person who is ringing the doorbell.

Unmonitored systems allow the homeowner to receive information in real time about what's going on at their home, so they can make decisions and take actions that will help protect their property.

Can You DIY a Security System?

Many Edmonton Highlands homeowners choose to install their own DIY unmonitored security system. There are a variety of smart devices that can improve home security and help homeowners protect their homes.

Smart doorbells, smart locks, smart garage door openers and smart security cameras all can be controlled by the homeowner, from their phone. These systems are often sold separately and can be installed one at a time by the homeowner.

Which Kind of System Is Right For You?

Deciding which type of home security system to purchase can be a challenge for many homeowners. Homeowners who choose a monitored system often do so for the convenience, or because they aren't comfortable installing their own unmonitored system. Homeowners who choose to install their own system often do so because they like the budget-friendly nature of the DIY system.

Both types of systems can help protect the home. If you're a homeowner who would like to have a security system installed in your home, but you're not sure what kind, contact a reputable home security company in your area. Find out their rates and what kind of services they offer.

Then, explore the DIY systems. Find out what would be involved with the purchase and installation of these systems. Talk to friends who have home security systems, and find out how they feel about those systems. Doing research can help you choose the type of system that's right for you.