Who will be providing the alarm monitoring?

Many times the company installing your alarm system is not the company that will actually be providing the alarm system monitoring services. Companies such as ADT and some of the larger security companies have their own monitoring centers. In fact some of these companies have several of their own alarm monitoring centers. Some smaller alarm companies also provide their own alarm monitoring as well. It is important to know who is monitoring your alarm, so don’t forget to ask.

Does the alarm system monitoring center have an emergency plan in place in the event of a disaster or other types of critical emergencies?

You may live in a state that is experiencing beautiful weather, but your monitoring center may be located in another state that is experiencing massive blackouts and snow storms. Alarm monitoring centers require dedicated phone lines, computers, special software, and other important devices that require power to operate. Most monitoring companies will have stand-by generators for short term power losses. However, if yours doesn’t—you can have an interruption in your alarm system monitoring services.

Are the monitoring center employees specially trained to handle alarm signals?

This is a question that you should ask any potential alarm system monitoring company. You want to make sure that anyone who is providing home security to your family and watching over your belongings is trained to do so. If an emergency does arise at your home, you want someone who is fast, efficient, and capable of handling your situation.

Can I have alarm system monitoring even if I don’t have a phone line installed in my home?

If you would have asked this question years ago, the answer would be NO. However, there have been so many advancements in home security technology and one of them is cellular radio monitoring. You no longer need to pay for an analog phone line in your home just to have alarm system monitoring. You can have it monitored via cellular radio. Many companies offer cellular monitoring ,and it is by far one of the fastest and most reliable forms of alarm transmission today.

I am a renter. Can I still have my security system monitored?

Yes, of course! Just because you do not own your apartment or home, doesn’t mean you don’t want to protect it. Renters have family, belongings, and valuables that they want to protect—just like homeowners do. Actually, renters should be even more concerned with protecting their home with 24 hour alarm system monitoring than homeowners. Burglars like to target renters because they think a renter will not take certain security precautions for their rental—like getting a monitored alarm system.

I have an existing alarm system in my home but it is currently not being monitored. How can I get alarm system monitoring again?

Easy. If you do not know who was previously monitoring the alarm system in your home, most control panels will have a number to call for the monitoring center affixed to the outside of the box. If there is not one there, don’t give up. Many home security companies may be able to monitor your alarm system—even if they did not install it. Some home security companies even offer specials to new customers that choose to have their alarm system monitoring done through their company.

Alarm Keypads/Key fobs

Now you have more options available when it comes to keypads. Gone are the days of the basic plain beige or white keypads with little to no options. Nowadays, there are keypads that not only have a nice appearance, but have tons of advanced options. There are now color options available too such as chrome and black that will match almost any decor. Voice keypads are also being offered as well as touch screen keypads. There are also many features that these advanced home security products offer such as one touch arming, voice messaging mailboxes for each family member, ability to control several lights in your home, and so much more. Chimes on the different keypads can also vary.

Wireless key fobs are also very handy home security products to have. They have an appearance of a car remote and can be carried around with you in your pocket or a purse. Key fobs not only offer you the ability to arm and disarm your alarm system from outside of your home, but they can be programmed with an emergency panic button on them. This feature offers extra protection should you become approached outside of your home and need help.

Alarm Glass Break Sensors/Shock Sensors

If you are worried about someone breaking your windows, consider adding shock sensors or glass break detectors to your alarm system. These home security products are a great addition to home security systems and offer premier protection. Alarm glass break detectors detect the sound of broken glass, while shock sensors detect shock waves from glass being shattered. Both types of home security products will add a layer of protection to your home security system.

Pet Immune Motion Detectors

One of the most popular home security products on the market today are motion detectors. Motion detectors got a bad rap in the past for false alarm issues. This was because earlier models did not have the capability to distinguish the difference between a pet and a human. False alarms became a big problem and were caused by pets walking in front of motion detectors while their owners were away. In the past several years, the home security product industry came out with pet immune (PI) motion detectors. Not only do these advanced home security products offer reliable coverage, they offer homeowners a way to keep the interior of their home protected without the worry of false alarms being caused by their pets.

There are many home security products on the market—in fact, too many to mention. Many of these products are not only affordable, but they offer convenience and security for your home. Keep in mind that a security company may offer their own line of home security products, so some items mentioned might be exclusive to a certain company.

Over the years, security alarm systems have become increasingly popular. Once considered a luxury to have in a home, has become a necessity. As crime rates seem to increase, more and more families are looking into security systems as not only a means to protect their home—but protect themselves as well. Security alarm systems are not only affordable to get, they are also very easy to have installed. Many home security companies these days are offering all types of security alarm systems ranging from hardwired, wireless, and installations that combine wired and wireless alarm devices.

For renters, wireless security alarm systems are the preferred choice. Since hardwired installations are more complex and require holes to be drilled in walls as well as wires to be ran, a wireless security alarm makes more sense to have installed. Most property owners do not want damage done to their property and will usually advise a tenant not to have a wired alarm system installed in their rental. However, a smart choice for a property owner or landlord would be to have a hardwired security system installed in a rental, and each time a tenant moves out, simply change the code to one that the new tenant would like. This offers an incentive to renting your property while offering the renter peace of mind. It also allows you, the owner, the opportunity to secure your property and protect it against the threat of vandalism and/or a fire. There may also be some homeowners insurance discounts involved too. It is a good idea to ask your insurer if they offer discounts for having security alarm systems installed in your rentals.

As mentioned, security alarm systems can be basic, but can offer enough burglary protection for a renter or homeowner. A security alarm system can also be customized with all kinds of exciting features such as a talking keypad, wireless key fobs, medical buttons, heat detectors, smoke detectors, glass break detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and more. These are just some of the additional options available for security alarm systems today. There are plenty more additional options and features—with more being introduced to the market on a consistent basis.

If you are going to get a security alarm system installed in your home, have it installed professionally. There are several home security companies that offer affordable security alarm systems that include a low cost installation, as well as other incentives. It is also wise to opt for the alarm system monitoring as well. If your chosen security company does not offer alarm monitoring, ask them for recommendations. If no recommendations can be offered, find another security company. A lot of times smaller independent alarm companies will install an alarm system, but have another company monitor it. If you don’t like that idea, stick to the full service alarm companies that offer their own alarm installations, service, and monitoring. Monitored security alarm systems keep homes safe, and will keep yours safe too. Ready to get started? Click the button below to get free quotes for security alarm systems now!

Do your homework.
Before you make a final decision on a new home alarm system, make sure you are choosing the one that is right for you and your family. You also want to make sure you understand the differences between the many different alarm systems that are available today. Some home alarm companies will tempt you with “free installation” offers and other incentives to get you to sign with them quickly, but if you are not getting the coverage you need and can afford—these offers are a waste of time and do little for the security of your home.

Ask questions.
If you are not familiar with how a home alarm system operates, ask potential alarm companies to do a demonstration for you. Many companies will be more than happy to accommodate your request. If you have a question or concern, ask. If you do not feel comfortable using your home alarm system, or you are unfamiliar with how to operate it—your new home alarm system will be useless to you.

Don’t go overboard with additional features if you can not afford them.
It is very easy to get caught up with all the latest and the greatest in home security products—there are many of them out today. Some features, while new and exciting, are often times not necessary in the security of your home. If you are on a limited budget for your new home alarm system, stick to it. A basic system that covers all of your openings will do just fine. Later, when your budget allows, add that talking keypad or key fob you always wanted.

Do not leave important areas of your home unprotected.
When you purchase your new home alarm system, make sure you have gotten at least the exterior doors to your home protected. If you have a lot of windows in your home and can’t afford to have them individually done, inquire about getting glass-break detectors or motion detectors to cover them.

Get more than one estimate for your new home alarm system.
Just like there are many home alarm systems, there are tons of home security companies to choose from. Do not sign on with the first home security company that offers you a good deal. Make appointments with at least 3 home security companies and ask for written estimates from each. You can then compare the different companies and their services and base your decision on that. You want to feel comfortable with the purchase of your new home alarm system, take your time when choosing one.

Don’t settle for just any home alarm system.
Some people prefer hardwired alarm systems, while others prefer the convenience of a wireless home alarm system. Many home security companies have gotten away from installing hardwired alarm systems altogether and will offer you only a wireless installation. Wireless home alarm installations are much more popular these days and are easier to get. However, if a hardwired home alarm is what you want, shop around until you find a company that will install one for you. There are many home alarm companies competing for your business and will be happy to install any home alarm system that you request.

Your decision on whether to choose to have a wireless or a wired alarm system installed in your house, is strictly a matter of preference. However, you can take comfort in knowing that both types of house alarm systems work exceptionally well and do a great job at keeping a home safe. The real difference between both types of systems is the way they are installed. One is obviously installed using wire, with the devices being wired to the control panel. The other requires little to no wire and uses RF frequencies to communicate with the control panel. The control panel is of course the “brains” of an alarm system.

As far as alarm devices, you can get contacts, motions detectors, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors either hardwired or wireless. However, wireless house alarm systems can have a few advantages when it comes to features. For example, one popular home security product that is available for wireless alarm systems, but not on a hardwired system, is any type of portable button. Whether it be a key fob, portable panic button, or a button used for medical emergencies—these buttons are all wireless and will need to communicate with a wireless receiver to work.

What happens if you have a hardwired home alarm system already installed and want to add panic buttons or any other wireless devices? This is a common question and one with an answer you may happy with. If your previous alarm company installed a system with wireless capabilities, but did not actually install a receiver, getting wireless zones is as easy as adding a wireless receiver to your existing system. Combination house alarm systems are systems that have a combination of hardwired and wireless devices installed. This actually a very common type of alarm system used in many households today. It is also a very convenient system to have.

House alarm systems are ideal for people who may have added an addition to their home, or want to add coverage to areas that were not included in the original alarm installation. If you moved into a home with an existing wired alarm system, and you want to add to it, call the professionals. They can determine just by the type of panel you have if you can add RF capabilities or not. If so, you can save money by not having to install a whole new wireless alarm system in your home. However, if the system does not have wireless capabilities, but you want wireless, don’t give up. Wireless house alarm systems are affordable and worth getting. If it means you need to spend the money now to update to one, it may be worth it for you in the long run; especially if you ever want to upgrade with even more wireless zones. With prices as low as they are for wireless house alarm systems, it is really something that would be worthwhile to look into.

House alarms allow homeowners the flexibility of having security when they are away from their homes, and in most cases, while they are inside of their homes. If you are a person who travels a lot, a house alarm can provide you with peace of mind while you are away for extended periods of time. Simply arming your alarm before you depart will ensure that your home is protected from intruders while you are gone. However, just having a house alarm will not do. For the ultimate protection, you need to have your home alarm monitored. Monitored house alarms have been proven to be three times less likely to be broken into than houses that do not have an alarm system installed at all.

If you are wondering what all this home protection costs, you will be happy to know that it is a lot less than you might think. Thanks to advancements in the home security industry, and a rise in interest that homeowners have in protecting their property—house alarms have become extremely affordable. It is also a good thing for consumers that there is a lot of competition on the home security market, so it pays to shop pricing around. Just as house alarms have become affordable, so have alarm monitoring rates. When shopping around for a new home alarm system, inquire about alarm monitoring rates. For as much as you spend on a few cups of coffee each month, you can afford to have your home protected with some of the leading home security companies out today.

House alarms can come basic or with many options. However, if you can’t afford an alarm system with all the bells and whistles—don’t worry about it. If you can afford to get at least the basic alarm system for your home, it would be better than having no home alarm at all. Later, when you have more money in your budget to add additional features to your alarm system, do so then. Just make sure you ask any potential security company if the alarm system you are considering buying has the capability to be upgraded and can be done so easily.

You might think now that you can not afford to protect your home with an alarm system, but really, you can’t afford not to get one. House alarms can keep your family safe from burglars—even the brazen ones who will choose to invade your home while you and your family are inside. It is a scary thought, but it is happening all over our country every single day. You can help prevent your family from becoming a crime statistic by getting an alarm system installed in your home. Millions of families are being protected by monitored house alarms each and every day, shouldn’t yours be too?

What is the difference between hardwired and wireless home security systems?

This is one of the main questions home security professionals are asked each day. A hardwired home security system is installed by having wire run from a main alarm control box to alarm devices that are placed throughout your home such as motion detectors and transmitters. A wireless alarm system is everything a hardwired alarm system is—minus the wire. Instead of wires being ran to each individual wireless alarm device, they work off batteries. Both types of security systems are great choices, choosing between the two comes down to personal preference.

If I lose power in my home, does that mean I have no security system?

Most home security systems are installed with a back-up battery that will keep your security system going until your power is restored. An alarm back-up battery is only there to offer a temporary solution. Therefore, if you feel your power will be out for a longer period of time, it is wise to call your home security company for assistance.

Do I really need to have a home security system professionally installed?

There are several DIY security systems being offered today that do not require any professional installation or even any technical skills to install.  Remember, however, you are dealing with the security of your family and your home—isn’t their safety worth more than saving a few bucks? Home security systems work best when installed correctly. Professional alarm installers know what they are doing and will install your security system fast and efficiently. It may cost a little more to have a professional handle your security system installation, but it will be worth it in the long run.

I hear you get special discounts for having a home security system installed in your home. Is this true?

Yes. The discounts you are speaking of are homeowners and renters insurance discounts that are currently being offered to those with homes being secured by home security systems. It is recommended that you contact your homeowners insurance company and inquire about how you can save money on your homeowners insurance premiums by having a home security system installed in your home.

Can security systems be monitored without a phone line?

If you have no phone service at your home, or if you are like many people today and use VOIP service in your home, it is recommended you have a cellular radio installed with your security system as a form of alarm transmission. Cellular radio service is inexpensive and very reliable. Most home security companies are now offering cellular alarm monitoring to their customers at affordable rates.

Besides protecting homes from burglars, what else can security systems do?

Security systems not only protect homes from burglars, but fires and carbon monoxide poisoning too. There are also many features that can be programmed into home security systems such as monitoring of the arming and disarming activity, medical alarm monitoring, and more. Security systems can also be programmed with duress and panic codes, and other special features.

Still have questions?

Save time searching for answers by filling out the simple form on our site today. We will put you in touch with many top home security companies that can answer any questions you may have about security systems and how they can make your home safer.

Some of the ins and outs of home security companies are few and far between, but it is important for anyone looking for a new home security company to know about them. It is important to note that smaller home security companies have faults, but some of the larger ones do too. Remember, some of these home security companies are dealing with millions of customers every day. And while they strive to do their best to keep there customers happy—sometimes they will not succeed. That is why it is so important to not only look at the bad reviews about home security companies, but pay attention to the good ones too. As anyone knows, you can’t make everyone happy, and home security companies are no exception to that rule.

One of the main differences between a smaller home security company and larger home security companies is personalization. A smaller home security company will more than likely have an office close to your home and will be more familiar with your personal situation such as the neighborhood crime rate, City Alarm Ordinances, permits needed, and other pertinent important information. Larger home security companies may not be able to offer you the personal attention but an upside to them is their pricing. Since bigger home security companies have more customers and complete more installations, they are able to offer lower prices than smaller companies.

An upside to smaller home security companies is the fact that the majority of them do their own security system installations. While many of the larger home security companies do their own alarm installations, a majority of them rely on subcontractors to get many of the installations completed. On the other hand, when it comes down to alarm monitoring, larger companies have the advantage over smaller home security companies. This is because running an alarm monitoring center is not only expensive, it requires special alarm monitoring equipment, dedicated phone lines, trained staff, and other important factors. Large home security companies have the resources and can afford their own alarm monitoring center. Some smaller security companies do have their own monitoring centers—but not too many. Many small home security companies will install an alarm system for their customer and pay a larger home security company to monitor it.

Another important factor when deciding between home security companies is the type of home security system you want installed in your home. Some of the bigger home security companies prefer to install only wireless home security systems, while some smaller home security companies will offer both. Installation of a hardwired alarm will cost more, thus making a smaller home security company money on installation costs. Big alarm companies prefer wireless because they are quick and easy to install and they can do several wireless installations in a day—versus 1 hardwired installation. If a hardwired system is what you prefer installed in your home, it is important to ask your potential home security companies what type of installations they offer.

Each home security company offers something unique to their customers. Choosing between the both will be a tough choice to make. Now that you know the ins and outs of both types of home security companies, you will be able to make a more secure and informed decision.

Burglar alarms do not need to be expensive to be effective. Any family can find a burglar alarm that will fit their budget, and their needs. Most families have found that if they need to start out small because of a limited budget, getting the minimum protection helps them feel better than having no protection for their home at all. The best advise would be to get at least the exterior doors of the home protected—preferably the front door and the back door. This is the first place a burglar will try to enter a home through. If they are unsuccessful, they will try the next best thing: the windows. Adding protection to each individual window can be costly, but it is the absolutely best way to protect them. If you can not invest in getting your windows secured, ask about getting motion detectors or glass-break detectors to cover them—especially if you have a lot of windows.

You will also need to make an important decision when it comes down to your home’s security—choosing between a hardwired or wireless burglar alarm. There is no right or wrong decision on this one. Both types of burglar alarms are excellent tools in home protection and do a great job at keeping families safe. Hardwired burglar alarms have been around a lot longer than wireless burglar alarms and have proven their reliability. However, for some people, a hardwired burglar alarm is just not an option. If a hardwired burglar alarm can not be installed because of lack of attic space, high ceilings, or other reasons, a wireless burglar alarm is an excellent alternative.

Burglar alarms, whether hardwired or wireless are necessary in the times we are in. They are no longer exclusively offered to the wealthy or business owners only—anyone can get a burglar alarm system if they want one. However, if you are a renter, some property owners will not allow a hardwired burglar alarm to be installed on their property. If this is the case, ask them what their policies are as far as wireless burglar alarms. Most property owners and landlords have no problems having wireless burglar alarms installed in their rentals. In fact, many landlords and property owners recognize the need for home security and are offering monitored burglar alarms as one of their rental features.

If you do not have a burglar alarm in your apartment or home, don’t leave your home unprotected another day. Burglar alarms are proven to help keep your home safe and secure. There are too many burglaries happening that never make the headline news. Don’t let your home turn into another burglary statistic. Talk to a home security company today and discuss your options as far as burglar alarms and burglar alarm monitoring.

If you are going to get a security system installed in your home, most people will tell you the best one to get is a home security system that is wireless. This is because wireless security systems are often easier to upgrade and add additional features to than a hardwired security system. If you get your home security system wireless from the beginning, it could save you time and money later on. For instance, if you are on a budget now and can’t afford additional convenient options such as a wireless keypad or key fob, adding these features later when your budget allows will be easy. Some additional features that offer us convenience like a wireless keypad or key fob are not available on hardwired installations. If you get a hardwired system and not a home security system wireless and want those features later on, you will need to upgrade your whole system to wireless system.

Choosing to have a home security system wireless installed in your home also has an advantage if you ever plan on renovating your home. Since wireless devices are easily mounted, usually with double-stick tape, the devices are easy to relocate to other areas. If you add additional areas to your home that were not covered during the installation of your alarm system, you can easily add wireless devices to these areas. There is no limit to what you can do with a home security system that is wireless.

Another perk to having a home security system wireless installation is the money you can save on installation costs. If you are having a hardwired home security system professionally installed in your home, you will need to pay more in installation costs. Most hardwired installations can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days—depending on the complexity of the installation. If you are paying for installation costs, it can get very expensive. Home security system wireless installations are not only cheaper, they are faster. Most wireless home security system installations can be completed in as little as a few hours—rarely any longer. Unless of course, the installation is a large one.

It is also important to point out that the do-it-yourself market has options when it comes to home security. There are a few reputable companies, such as FrontPoint Security, that offer DIY home security system wireless options. Frontpoint offers a complete DIY wireless security system that can be self-installed in a matter of minutes. This is a great option for those who want to protect their homes with a security system, but want to install it themselves.

Every home should have a security system. Since prices for home security systems are very competitive throughout the industry, now is a better time than ever to invest in one. Not only is the safety of your home increased, but the value of your home may be increased by choosing to have a home security system wireless installation done in your home.