Before deciding on a home security system, it’s important to consider the features offered and your personal needs. Hundreds, if not thousands, of home security options are available to consumers, which can make selecting a system overwhelming.

According to Consumer Affairs, over 30 million households in the US have a home security system, but only 42% of those include video surveillance. Here are some things to know before making your home security system decision:

Feature Options

While it can seem overwhelming, it’s good to have tailored options for your home security system because your home and family have unique needs. Features to consider include:

• Home monitoring: The best option if you want 24/7 surveillance of your home by a home security service. The professionals will alert the proper authorities when unusual activity is detected.
• Network and cellular communication: With phone companies sunsetting their hard-wired phone lines make sure the company you chose offers alternative monitoring options.
• Fire alarm: Integrating your fire alarm with your monitored home security system means your home is protected even when you’re away. You’ll receive alerts if the system is triggered, and you can rest assured that help will be dispatched.
• Carbon monoxide monitoring: High levels of carbon monoxide cannot be detected by sight or smell. If you opt for a monitored system, your security team will alert you and the fire department if CO reaches a dangerous level.
• Environmental monitoring: Environmental monitoring can alert you when they sense toxic gasses, floods from a burst pipe, or drastic temperature changes. This can be especially beneficial if you are frequently away from home and want peace of mind that everything is in order.
• Smart home automation: This feature allows you to remotely control things such as turning lights on and off if you’re away for the evening or out of town for days. You can also remotely give access to anyone who may need to enter, such as a pet sitter.

Security Camera Benefits

A video surveillance system can protect your family and your home. A security camera will capture unusual activity around your property, but there are added benefits, such as:

• Deterring crime: When criminals see that a home is protected by security cameras, they are more likely to avoid that property. According to Security.org, a study from the University of North Carolina found that 50% of criminals surveyed stated that outdoor cameras would deter them from burglarizing a home.
• Real-time access: The latest security cameras allow you to view footage from inside or outside in real time. This helps monitor your property but also keeps an eye on children, teenagers, elderly family members, caretakers/housekeepers, or pets in the home when you’re not. Any suspicious activity seen in real time offers you the chance to call the authorities immediately.
• Homeowners insurance savings: Many insurers offer lower insurance premiums if measures are taken to protect the home from vandalism, theft, and fire damage. According to Angi, homeowners can save up to 20% on their insurance premiums by installing a home security system.
• Remote access control: This enables you to lock and unlock doors, control smart devices within your home, and turn lights off and on as needed.

Know Your Budget

Consider whether you can hire a professional to install the system or whether you will install it yourself. Installing it yourself may be more cost-efficient, but hiring someone else to install it leaves you knowing that it’s done correctly.

When it comes to choosing your home security system, consider your personal needs as well as your budget. American Alarm’s security team can help you select the features that are best suited to your needs and lifestyle to keep your family safe.

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