Home Alarm Systems

Home alarm systems can be complicated and expensive, so it's important to determine your security needs before you begin consulting with alarm companies.

Here are a few steps you should take before committing to an installation.

1) Know the basic components. And what they do. You'll definitely need: a control panel, door and window contacts, and sirens or alarms. You might want: motion detectors, cameras, glass-break sensors and additional security keypads.

2) Survey your home. Walk around the perimeter of your home as if you were a burglar. Take note of any likely entry points and what you need to secure them. Look for low windows, exterior doors and second-story windows that can be reached by climbing.

.

Determine possible locations for the control panel and keypads. You might find it convenient to place a keypad close to the front door. You might also want a keypad close to the bedrooms. The control panel commands the system, and the keypads allow you to program the system and turn it on and off.

3) Shop for a company. The next couple of steps will deal with what you need to do to survey the providers of home alarm systems in your area. Getting good service is at least as important as the hardware you are getting.

4) Talk to several companies. See if they will come to your home and do some risk assessment. Ask them where they see problems and what they would do.

Go to our page on alarm companies to get information about a few good choices.

5) Get quotes. Get an estimate in writing. Make sure they include costs for equipment, setup, responses, monthly monitoring fees and warranties.

6) Get some references. You may have gotten a reference from a friend to start with. If not, ask for them. A good company will have some customers willing to be contacted as references.

Ask if the system was installed in the quoted time frame, if contracts were clear and explained well, if the customer service is courteous and readily available, if they've ever had a break-in and how quickly the company responded.

7) Research the equipment. Most companies get their hardware from a certain company. Ask what they'll be installing and go on the internet and find some reviews. Read about specific units. Gather opinions from several different websites.

8) Sleep on it. Representatives may seem very excited and that can get infectious. But be firm and mull it over for awhile. Don't sign anything on the spot. At least talk it over with your spouse or a friend.

When choosing your home alarm systems, consider your lifestyle. Does anyone in the family often get up in the middle of the night for a snack? Do you have a large pet that roams the house at night?

Such circumstances will influence the type of motion sensor you select and how it is installed. It may also call for you or members of your family to take trips to the keypad to prevent false alarms.

Now you're ready to sign up. Go ahead and sign the contract when you feel confident. A good company will walk you through the rest of the process. Good luck!

If you have a question, or just want to discuss your project with me, contact me about home alarm systems by clicking here.

Return To Home Page

Find thousands of unbiased ratings on services for home improvements Try Angie’s List.