Types of Home Security Systems

Burglary is a huge problem in the United States and around the world. The FBI indicates that four burglaries happen every minute in the United States, which means that homeowners have to be looking for ways to protect their homes from intruders. Even those places that might have seemed safe in the past are becoming more dangerous. Luckily for homeowners, there are a number of home security systems out there that get the job done. They are becoming more technologically sound and they’re counteracting the rise in home invasion statistics. So what are these home security systems?

Monitored systems
Many homeowners today are going with monitored home security systems, which provide more insurance and peace of mind. Monitored systems report directly to a central monitoring center, which is run by the security company. When something triggers the alarm, the security company will typically contact the homeowner first, then they will contact the local authorities. The nice thing about a monitored system is that it provides a watchful eye over a home even when the homeowner is out of town or at work. The authorities typically respond very quickly, and these systems can successfully nab criminals.

The only downside is that there is a bit of lag in how quickly the authorities are alerted. The security company takes the time to contact homeowners, just to make sure the trigger was not a false alarm. This is a necessary evil with systems of this kind, though.

Unmonitored systems
These systems are basically designed to alert homeowners, neighbors, and anyone who might be in the vicinity of the home. Though they are not tied to any sort of monitoring, they do make a loud, noticeable noise that will let a homeowner know that something is happening. Additionally, they are meant to scare off the intruder, as statistics show that most intruders want nothing to do with police or angry homeowners. They are simply looking for a quick, convenient score.

This type of system can save money, as no monitoring fees are required. In order for it to work, you will need to have responsible neighbors, though, as it will be their job to call the authorities if they see and hear your alarm going off.

Hard-wired and wireless systems
Another way that home security systems can be separated is with the type of wiring. Wireless systems are easier to install and they can be moved from home to home. Hard-wired systems are more reliable, they allow for better performance, and no replacement of batteries is necessary.

Electric current home alarm systems
These are easily the most popular home alarm systems on the market. They can be placed on windows, doors, gateways, or any other barrier. When someone enters into the electric current field, the disruption will cause the alarm to trigger instantly, making a loud noise in most cases. These systems can be configured to automatically alert the authorities, as well, which makes them even more valuable.

Video monitoring and motion detection
For those people who want to take their home security system to the next level, video monitoring and motion detectors are good options. Motion sensors can be placed both within the home and outside. On the interior, it will detect when someone has breached the home, which can help in the case that someone enters through something other than a window or door. On the outside, motion detectors can be attached to flood lights, which provides immediate lighting to hopefully scare off the intruder.

Cameras serve the same purpose, giving individuals the chance to view their property at all times, while also providing a deterrent to potential criminals. It has been noted by statistics that camera monitoring is the most intimidating home security force.

Posted on Tuesday, April 6th, 2010

Categories: General Tips

Comments are closed.