Are you in search for the best home security system that will set you up for years of peace of mind, ensure the security of family, protect your property, and come with a few other extra benefits that you may not expect? It can be a challenging and frustrating process to source from China security camera markets. We’ve compiled a home security camera system buying guide with the best information to help select the best security system customized to your lifestyle.
Table of Contents
What’s a home security system?
A home security system is a network of devices that work together to keep your family and property secure. A standard home security system consists of a multiple of components, including a control panel, sensors for doors and windows, detectors and alarm.
What to look for in a best home security system?
Automation
Check for a good security system that seamlessly connects with your home automation devices. Some popular home security systems use hub or control panel to send signals to your smart home devices like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa to set your home security system completely hand free. With the seamless connection, it’s simply a breeze to schedule lights being turnt on or off even when you’re on holiday, or adjust the thermostat’s temperature.
Monitoring
Professional monitoring services are dedicated to detecting any alerts or dangers your security system notices, and will immediately contact the emergency responders and notify you if a sensor is triggered. In addition, it also provides a two-way audio to scare off intruders.
Mobile app
A good home security system comes with mobile app that provides convenience to control your home security system from your smart phone even when you are not at home. When the sensors and signals of your home security system are triggered, you’ll instantly get notifications from your mobile app and be able to see live footage with your phone.
User friendly
Your home security system is designed not only to make your home secure but also your life simple. It should be designed with user friendly interface that you know which buttons to press in the event of emergency.
Expandability
With time passing by you might have to improve your security system with extra add-on like additional sensors, security cameras and other security components. Make sure you’re able to add more equipment to the existing system before going into the deal.
Design
Choose a home security system that matches the design of your home. Some home security systems use base stations while others use tablet style control panels rather than bulky wires.
Types of home security system
Landline home security system
Landline home security system relies solely on a wired phone connection and radio frequency to send alerts, which might be a great disadvantage if there’s a power outage, making it less popular while compared to wireless systems that come with a few significant benefits. It usually requires professional installation.
Wireless home security system
Wireless home security system uses cellular signals to send alerts, and it’s easy to install as most equipment is pre-programmed with user manual. While choosing a wireless security system, check the cellular signal coverage in your area as it might impact the proper working of your equipment.
Installation of home security system
DIY Wireless Home Security System
A DIY wireless home security system usually means you have to install the home security system on your own, and it’s usually not difficult with pre-programmed equipment, manual and lots of how to Youtube videos. A DIY home security system is easy to set up with removable adhesive or plugs, then connect with your smartphone or internet. It doesn’t require any drilling or wiring, and provides lots of flexibility to set up the device whenever you want without the help of a professional technician.
Professionally Installed Home Security System
Some home security systems require professional installation from a technician, which means you might save the hassles of drilling and wiring, however, expect to pay for the service fee and schedule an appointment for installation.
DIY home security system vs. professionally installed security system
| DIY home security system | Professionally installed security system | |
| Pros | Flexibility, saving costs for installing, and you do not have to sign up for a multi-year contract. | Your system is professionally set up and monitored by trained technician. |
| Cons | Not installed by trained professionals, and it might pose hidden problems or errors in installation. | You have to pay for installation fee, monthly fee or might have to be locked into a contract. |
Components of home security system
Base stations: Base stations usually consist of sirens, backup batteries and cellular connectivity that work together as a bridge to connect sensors and components.
Contact sensors: Being attached to doors and windows to alert you once they’re triggered.
Motion sensors: Detect movements of people.
Keypads: To arm and disarm the alarm.
Touchscreen control panels: With them you can arm and disarm the system and control other smart home devices.
Key fobs and tags: With arm/disarm buttons and RF tags.
Range extenders: For large homes to increase the wireless range of the base station and connect more remote sensors.
Other add-on sensors and components: Security cameras, environmental sensors and alarms, sirens, glass break sensors, garage door tilt sensors, panic buttons and pendants
Frequently asked questions about home security system
Which is better, wired home security system or wireless one?
Both home security systems have pros and cons. If you’re renting property, it’s suggested to use wireless home security system as you don’t have to drill on the walls and it’s easy to move.
How does my home security system work during outages?
Most home security systems come with a backup battery to keep the system and equipment running during power shortage. However, some features might not be available to send signals.
What are the differences between professional monitoring and self-monitoring?
Professional monitoring means trained professionals would keep an eye on your home security 24/7, and they’ll contact you once the alarm is triggered. In addition, emergency services can also be dispatched to your home upon request.
Self-monitoring means you and your authorized home members are monitoring the security of your home, which might leave your home more vulnerable as you don’t have experts watching around the clock though you can save monthly monitoring fees.
About the author:
Anthony Faguet has a security product business in France for over 9 years. His company Globaleye Security is dedicated to helping businesses produce premium quality security products at affordable rates from China.
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