The Top Five Features Every Consumer Should Know About Home Alarm Systems

It can be overwhelming to keep up with all the new information, but it shouldn’t be. To help you out, Alarm system review site SecuritySystemReviews.com recently released a list of the top five features you should know about home alarm systems. We were impressed with the list and wanted to make sure our readers were in the know. Here they are (our thoughts included):

Do It Yourself and Avoid the Hassle

1) “Do it yourself security systems can save consumers as much as $1,000 or more off the upfront costs of an alarm or security system. Changing technology has made it easier than ever for consumers to install their own equipment.”

All security systems sold by FrontPoint are do it yourself because they’re a simpler and more affordable option without sacrificing security. You don’t have to worry about a pricey installation, drilling holes in walls or having a stranger in your home. It’s also really easy to move to a new home.

The Mobile Revolution

2)  “Smartphones are now a key player in home security, and many professionals advise consumers to take advantage of these opportunities. There are still basic security and alarm systems, but many companies offer customers the option to also use a mobile app, which is often only a few extra dollars a month and can let people remotely control their system.”

The mobile app gives a you the capability to monitor your home from the palm of your hand. It can be used to arm/disarm the security system, track entries and exits, and watch live video from your cameras. In addition, it can be used with your home automation equipment and Geo-Services.

Problems with Self-Monitoring

3) “Monitoring isn't offered with many security and alarm systems, but it’s important for consumers to realize that all they’re getting with unmonitored service is essentially a series of loud noises. It is less expensive, but it may not be worth the cost savings, particularly for people who live in rural areas where there are no neighbors nearby.”

In the past year, there’s been an influx of security systems with self-monitoring. As we’ve mentioned a few times on this blog [link], an unmonitored alarm system has many security holes that make it unreliable and unsafe. Companies like Piper and Canary and relying on customers to be attracted to the lower fee. In order to protect your most important and valuable possessions – as well as family – a security system with professional monitoring is the safest option.

Search for Quality Customer Service

4) “Most home alarm and security companies offer equipment and technology that is all similar in scope, so the deciding factor often comes down to the level of customer service being provided, which makes security systems reviews very important. Also, it’s important to check the local reviews of national companies, because the feedback may vary significantly based on location and region.”

The home security industry is often associated with poor customer service and for good reason – look at aggressive salesmen, hidden fees, doorknockers and more. At FrontPoint, we do things differently. Our customers are our top priority – we have the reviews to prove it. When it comes to protecting lives and peace of mind, customers deserve and need a company that will respond and assist instantly.

Protect Your Home

5) “In addition to having an alarm system, security professionals recommend homeowners take on a layered security approach. That means covering everything from the landscaping of a home to ensuring door locks are heavy-duty to prevent intruders from breaking in. Criminals have become more sophisticated and advanced in their techniques.”

While a security system is the best way to protect a home, we couldn’t agree more that covering all your bases is the safest approach. Simple things like clearing yard tools to locking the upstairs window go a long way. Consider automated locks and other automation equipment as more advanced methods to keep burglars out. For more tips, check out this list on how to protect your home we compiled during the holidays.

Consumer Knowledge

New information about the home security industry seems to appear every week, making it difficult to stay in the loop. SecuritySystemReviews.com has done a great job of staying on top of trends and informing consumers. For newcomers, use this list as a basic guide as you get started. For long-time home security users, consider this as a way to stay informed and brush up on your methods. Keep an eye out on this blog for more information in the future.

What would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!