Take care of Home Security!

We know that searching for security cameras, sensors, anti-burglar alarms, home automation software, and hardware, as well as other safety products, takes much time and effort. To make the right choice, one needs to have solid experience and deep knowledge; otherwise, there is a high risk that the chosen security system will turn out unreliable.

The goal of our platform is to help homeowners to find optimal home security solutions by providing access to reviews from actual users and expert-written articles. Our team does all the hard work for you: we scrupulously examine security systems and pieces available on the market to find those worth trying out. We check them in terms of a wide range of aspects, including functionality, reliability, effectiveness, ease of use, affordability, user experience, etc, so one can safely say that our reviews are both informative and reliable.

The users of our website come here to read our impartial opinion about a particular home security system or a manufacturer, and to learn about the latest updates and trends in this sphere. And we gladly share our experience and knowledge with everybody concerned.

What is a security system? How does it operate?

A security system is a network of varied devices, such as IP66 cameras, detectors, alarms, or others, that protect homeowners and properties from burglars and intruders, as well as other dangers. These devices can be linked with cables, but today, most safety systems` items are wireless and interconnect via Z-Wave or ZigBee. For example, when an entry or a motion sensor detects some unexpected movement, it sends an intrusion notification to a central hub, which forwards it to the customer’s phone and/or a dispatcher.

What is home automation? How is it used in security systems?

The use of automation technologies allows safety pieces to operate properly without the control of a user. A home-owner sets up a security system and determines its timing mode, as well as how it should react to certain triggers; as a result, it functions independently. Also, this technology allows users to manage devices through a mobile app or a remote. In the first case, a home-owner can monitor and control the operation of a home network as well as receive burglar alarm notifications in any place where Wi-Fi is accessible.

Why are such security systems so popular?

Home alarm systems are becoming more and more user-friendly and highly-functional year after year. More to the point, their prices constantly go down as well. Today, there exist DIY security items that can be easily and quickly installed without any professional assistance, which allows customers to save on fees. A customer can fix and set up such a camera, doorbell, or sensor within only a few minutes.

How is the operation of home safety providers regulated?

There is a range of state and national authorities that monitor the work of such businesses and make sure they strictly comply with the law and provide customers with services and products of sufficient quality. Regulations vary by state.

What is the price of a security system?

The costs differ depending on the manufacturer, provider, and technical characteristics of the selected pieces. In most cases, potential users should also keep in mind that in addition to an equipment bundle they will need to pay for a monthly monitoring plan. Still, there is a range of economical options available: some companies provide appliances for free should a user subscribe to their monitoring services and agrees to pay the corresponding monthly fees. Also, some providers produce DIY home alarm items or offer clients to choose between professional surveillance and self-monitoring. The average price is around $100 to about $600 for a security alarm network, but that sum can be paid in installments.

Can home safety networks prevent crimes?

Indeed! If an intruder notices a security camera near the front door or a glass break sensor on the window, they will probably change his plans and hastily go away. In many cases, manufacturers equip such systems with automatic lights or sirens that turn on when motion is detected. That is a truly effective way to prevent intrusion of burglars and other criminals.

Are wireless networks better than wired ones?

Wireless smart home safety systems are easy to install and control. The installation does not require making holes in walls and damaging finishing materials. Also, there are no cables underfoot. On top of that, an intruder cannot turn such a system off by cutting the wires. As for the cons of wired devices, their operation does not depend on the stability of the Wi-Fi network as do the wireless.

Can such a system protect a home against fire?

Yes, in addition to movement sensors, safety networks can be complemented with smoke, CO₂, heat, water, and freeze detectors, which means that they can effectively inform homeowners and/or local authorities about fires, gas leakages, floods, and other similar accidents. In case of an emergency, they can either raise an alarm or send a notification to the user’s mobile phone over an app.

Can I count on an insurance discount if I buy a home security system?

In most cases, yes. But that depends on the state and the insurance company. As is shown by statistics, the installation of a home alarm system decreases the risk of burglary three-fold on average. That helps insurance companies to save money, so they can easily afford to make a discount. Also, when a home-owner has such an alarm system, he or she is less likely to use the corresponding insurance, unless interested or encouraged in some way.

Do I need a home safety system if I rent an apartment?

Certainly. Such types of property are in danger as well, but since they are relatively compact; one can choose a basic bundle with fewer sensors and cameras. Note that some providers serve home-owners only. One more crucial detail to pay attention to: it may be prohibited to drill holes in walls in a rental apartment, so the optimal choice s  a wireless security system.