4th of July Sale
Secure Your Home for Up to 84% Off + $69 Security Systems For a Limited Time
Secure Your Home for Up to 84% Off + $69 Security Systems For a Limited Time
Designing a home security system can be difficult. There's a daunting amount of equipment to learn and there are many alarm companies trying to tell you what to buy. We have a different approach, and we're here to help. Putting together a home alarm system is not about selecting from a set of predetermined bundled kits, nor is it about having unnecessary sensors tacked onto your order to drive up the cost. Choosing your home security system is about making sure that it's customized to fit your home and tailored to meet your needs. Think about it: who knows your home better than anyone else? That's right, it's you! And you should be designing your system. So, where do you start? In today’s blog, we’re diving into ‘How to Design a Home Security System.’ First we’ll help you evaluate the interior of the home by thinking like a burglar. Tomorrow, we’ll use the information from your self-evaluation to select the most appropriate sensors. Let’s get started!
We know that burglars most commonly break-in through the front and back doors. In fact, 57 percent of burglaries occur through these entry points. Focus your attention to these doors, either by reinforcing their security or by placing Door Window Sensors. Burglars are also not afraid to go through windows, or even smash them.
The second most common entry point for burglars is ground-level windows. Instead of buying a Door Window Sensor for every single window in the house, a single Motion Sensor can cover a large area with multiple windows and detect intrusion just as effectively. You get the same protection for less money! Keep in mind that doors and windows are the most common burglar entry points, but not the only way.
We've covered the entry points, but it's better to be safe than sorry, and that means securing your rooms. What rooms do burglars target? Convicted burglars have admitted that the master bedroom is often the first target. It usually holds valuables that are easily carried, such as jewelry and money. Other rooms with expensive possessions are also prime targets, such as the living room or basement. When designing your home alarm system, consider the size of the room, as well as the path a burglar would have to take to get in and out. Smaller rooms may only require a Door Window Sensor, while larger ones would be better suited with a Motion Sensor.
What about the outside of your home? Through observation you can determine if you need more or less sensors – or even a security camera. Start by looking at the space surrounding your home. Identify how large the area is, if there's enough lighting and if neighbors have a good viewpoint of your yard. For dark hidden areas, you may consider getting motion-activated lights, or security cameras for monitoring. A very important thing to look for is anything that could allow a burglar to gain entry to the upper levels of your home – like trees, vines or a ladder. A burglar may opt to use those to get through a window on the top floor, so it's important to secure those if you feel it’s necessary.
We've focused primarily on the threat of a burglary so far, but environmental dangers should not be ignored. A Frontpoint system is prepared to protect you from a variety of threats, including fire, freezing, flooding and carbon monoxide. When putting your system together, take into consideration what potential threats from nature could affect your home.
The next step is to analyze the security sensors that are going to protect your home. If you want to save time when you design your system, you should start with understanding how these sensors work. Who knows, you might save yourself money too! Knowledge is key. Here’s a list explaining the basic functions and ideal locations for all of our equipment – we’re sorry, it’s a long one, but it’s worth your time!
The most common sensor in any home security system, the DWS comes in two small pieces that are paired wirelessly. When the wireless connection is interrupted – like when a door or window opens – the sensor will trigger an alert.
Using infrared detection, a MS will effectively monitor large rooms for any signs of movement.
The GB detects the unique sound frequency of breaking glass up to 20 feet in any direction. The GB and MS make a powerful combo in protecting a large area with many windows.
The SH uses photoelectronic technology to detect smoke particles in the air. It also detects when a room’s temperature rises too quickly.
As the name implies, the Keychain Remote goes onto a key ring to provide the easiest way of arming and disarming. Also included is a button to turn on the lights, as well as a panic button.
Mobile apps are included free with Frontoint’s Interactive and Ultimate Monitoring. The feature allows a user to turn their smartphone or tablet into a digital Control Panel. Mobile apps allow users to control the system, view live feeds from cameras, receive instant notifications/alerts and more!
The FS gives instant warning when a leak or flooding occurs. The sensor comes in two pieces to ensure a reliable connection: the detector signals the alarm when it comes in contact with water and the separate transmitter unit sends the transmission.
The CMO detects carbon monoxide, a deadly and odorless gas. Upon detection, the sensor will send an immediate alarm to the Control Panel and monitoring center.
Garage Door Sensor (GDS)
The GDS uses weight and angle to monitor garage doors that roll and swing up. The sensor is placed at the top of the garage door and as the door opens, the GDS will change angles. When it passes 35 degrees, the sensor will trigger an alert.
The CAM allows users to keep an active eye on their home from anywhere. It has a viewing range up to 50 feet and can view activity in the dark. A broadband network is required to allow the CAM to connect wirelessly.
The ODCAM is weatherproof and withstands below-freezing temperatures, or up to 122 F, to provide video surveillance of the exterior areas of a user’s property. It can also see in the dark up to 40 feet.
Frontpoint keeps homes safe whether families are there or not. To shop DIY home security systems, check out our products page. If you have questions or would like to discuss a quote, contact us at 855-866-4409.
