It is impossible to put a price on the safety of you and your family, but cost plays a part when installing a home security system. However, in choosing one don’t rely solely on price as a metric.
Fortunately, there are ways to strike a balance between getting a good security system and having to pay more than you can afford.
Identifying your needs and comparing them with the options available is the first step.
Types of home security systems
A home security system can be divided into three basic types:
- ⬥ Environmental Monitoring
- ⬨Equipment such as smoke alarms, leak detectors, freeze detectors, etc.
- ⬥ Security Equipment
- ⬨Devices such as burglar alarms or outdoor cameras that are traditionally used for home security.
- ⬥ Smart Home Technology
- ⬨Smart home technology, the fastest-growing type of home security, allows users to do things such as adjust the thermostat remotely or open the door for a repair technician when they’re not at home.
Think about what your security needs are before spending too much for a home security system that’s loaded with extras you don’t need.
- How many square feet do I need to protect?
- How many rooms, doors, windows and other entry points need protection?
- What’s my family’s schedule?
- What needs protecting?
- What’s my budget (think about both your upfront and recurring costs)
Home security equipment features
When comparing different home security equipment features, use your needs as a guide.
Cameras
Doorbell camera
A camera installed near your front door (or the door you use most to enter your home). Besides recording visitors, it lets you remotely see and speak with them.
Nanny camera
The term nanny camera refers to an interior camera used to monitor children, caretakers, elderly people, and even pets.
Spotlight Camera
When motion is detected, an exterior camera records images and/or videos. Some cameras also feature LED lights and alarms.
Sensors
The different home security systems come with a variety of sensors. You’ll be notified if:
- ⬥ Pipes freeze
- ⬥ A window or a door is opened
- ⬥ A leak is detected
- ⬥ Glass is broken
- ⬥ Interior temperatures exceed a particular threshold
- ⬥ The fire alarm goes off
Many companies offer pre-programmed home security systems that are ideal for small homes that require only the basics. Usually, these kinds of systems are easy and quick to install, since they are wireless and you can place the components on windows, doors, and walls.
DIY home security kits allow you to pick only the components you want, but be aware that buying them individually can be pricey.
What Size Do I Need?
By controlling what components you select, you can control your costs. At the very least, you’ll need sensors and/or cameras for every exit and entrance into your home.
Do you need monitoring, or would you prefer to pay a onetime fee and be done with it?
If you decide to go with monitoring, make sure you understand the pricing structure because many companies charge cancellation fees if you opt to cancel after a trial period and/or if you move.
How to save on the security system you want
First, shop around to find the best deal.
To make a good “apples-to-apples” comparison, look carefully at the features and ongoing costs of systems.
See if your insurance company recommends any particular system and find out how much you could save by installing a home security system. Attempt to find out, as you could save thousands.
Invest in systems with only those features and equipment that you need.
For example, if you don’t need smart features such as lighting and heating control, opt for a system without them.
It’s tempting to go for all the bells and whistles, but you’ll save more money when you choose only what you need.
Simply put, don’t be captivated by all the amazing features offered by home security systems – you can still spend less on a security system without compromising your family’s safety.
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