Jan 20 2014
After analyzing the different home security systems available on the market, the team at TopSecuritySystems.net has posted detailed reviews of the top 5 home security companies.
"There are a ton of choices out there," explains Gretchen Price. "Our goal in writing these reviews is to help people make an educated decision when it comes to buying a home security system."
Adding to the challenge is the fact that the upfront costs associated with a home security system can be high. Plus, many security companies make their customers sign a contract -- meaning that a homeowner can be forced to live with the consequences of a bad decision for several years.
Price says that after conducting in-depth research into 5 different systems -- and the companies behind them -- there are 5 things that homeowners need to look at before they sign on the dotted line.
1. Wired vs. Wireless
"Wired systems are a burglar's dream come true," says Price. "All they have to do is snip a wire, and they've rendered the entire system useless."
That's why Price's team works so hard to convince homeowners to invest in a wireless security system. Because these systems are powered by a cellular network, there isn't a wire that an intruder can cut. In fact, because cellular-based security systems don't have to rely on a phone or internet connection, it's virtually impossible for them to be disabled.
2. The Number of Sensors
A good home security system will have sensors for every door and window -- and homeowners shouldn't have to pay extra to get them. During their research, the team at TopSecuritySystems.net found that some companies only offer a certain amount of sensors. If a homeowner needs more to cover all of his windows and doors, he has to buy them separately.
"Luckily, not every security company works this way," says Price. "As long as homeowners know to look for all-inclusive sensors, they'll be able to save some money."
3. Monitoring Capabilities
All five of the home security systems that Price's team reviewed offered 24/7 monitoring. However, some systems offered better monitoring than others, because, in addition to monitoring for burglars, they also keep an eye out for fires, carbon monoxide, rising water, and even temperature changes.
Price's team also suggests looking for a system that has medical alert capabilities. That way, homeowners can get help during a medical emergency with just the touch of a button.
4. Smartphone Control
Because home security systems have gotten "smarter", they are able to connect to a homeowner's smartphone -- meaning that he can lock doors, set alarms, and even turn on lights with just a few taps on his screen.
Price says smartphone control isn't a common feature yet, so homeowners will have to look carefully for a company that offers it. He says that search is worth some extra time because this feature is so important.
"We all forget things as we're running out the door in the morning. Now, you don't have to sit at work all day and wonder if you remembered to set the alarm before you left. That kind of peace of mind is priceless," says Price.
5. Extras
Because there is so much competition in the home security world these days, many of the good companies will offer "extras" -- like carbon monoxide detectors, additional smoke detectors, and even special pendants that can be worn around the neck and activated during a medical emergency.
Source: http://www.topsecuritysystems.net