How to buy a home alarm system

The right home security system can give you the peace of mind you need to feel safe and protected. When shopping for a home security system, consider the level of security that would make you feel comfortable.

Home alarm systems are available in monitored and unmonitored models.

Unmonitored: Unmonitored home alarm systems are popular for their inexpensive installation and upkeep costs.

• They trigger when an intruder tries to invade your home but are not monitored by an outside service.
• The alarm will let you or your neighbours know to phone the police and the sound of the alarm is a deterrent to home invasion.

Monitored: Monitored alarm systems are more expensive but are worth the price in added safety.

• The alarm will notify a monitoring centre via landline, cellular uplink or the Internet.
• Help will be sent regardless of whether you or your neighbours are home at the time of the emergency.

When buying an alarm system, consider the features available:

• Security cameras: Security cameras record what is going on at your house whenever the system is engaged.
• Video display: A video display allows you to view the footage of your security cameras so you can feel at ease in your home.
• Sensors: Sensors placed around your home can detect when a door or window is opened and trigger the alarm.
• Motion detectors: Motion detectors react to movement in certain areas of your home.
• Password: If there is a false alarm, you can stop the monitoring centre from alerting the authorities by giving them a pre-set password.
• Home automation system: Some companies offer the ability to control your home alarm system on your cell phone when you're on the go.

Consider these factors before purchasing your new home security system.

Monitoring centre: For increased security, a home monitoring centre can nip invasion in the bud when you’re away from home.

• Your home alarm system will be set to contact your monitoring centre as soon as an emergency occurs by landline, cellular uplink or broadband.

Wired vs. wireless: Wireless home security systems offer less clutter and easy set-up, even by the average homeowner.

Mobile system: If you're renting your home or relocating soon, consider installing a wireless system that you can easily remove and take with you to your next home.

Warranty: A good warranty will be cost effective in the long run, since a home security system has many parts that can potentially break down.

The type of area you live in might influence your needs when it comes to home security systems, but everyone can benefit from some home monitoring. Emergencies can happen anywhere, but the proper security will keep you and your family prepared.