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Everyone should have a haven at the end of each day. A safe and secure home is more than just a necessity and can help make your life more comfortable. This is why good home security systems are so important.
The components of security systems also matter. This post discusses what should be included in a home security system. This guide to home security systems also considers the components of good home security systems, your security company's main focus areas, and home security devices for smart homes.
You can also learn why you should have your home security system installed professionally. Read on to learn more about what should be included in a home security system and how professional electrical contractors can help you get started.
Why home security systems?
- The overall function of home security systems is to protect you and your loved ones.
- Home security systems help to prevent unauthorised home invasions such as burglaries and thefts.
- These home systems can protect you from environmental catastrophes like floods and fires. This, in turn, helps to prevent property damage.
Components of good home security systems
All home security systems, regardless of brand or model, work with the same principle. They ensure that entry points are secure. This includes windows and doors and all relevant, valuable items in the home, such as antiques, collectables, and computers.
Larger-sized homes can only increase the home's security components while retaining the same operation principles. For instance, the control panels of bigger homes require more components because they need to monitor larger areas.
Just like yard signs and window stickers that act as a deterrent that alerts intruders of the presence of a security system, security system components have protective roles to play in your home.
Some home security system components include the following:
- Security cameras (CCTV)
- Video doorbells
- Control panel
- Door and window locks
- Motion sensor alarms, floodlights, or motion-activated lights
- Window sensor alarm
- Smoke Alarms
- Warning window stickers.
Read on for a description of the components of a home security system:
Control panel
This is usually the keypad area of a home security system that acts as the central connection and main hub. The control panel of security systems provides access control to arm and disable the alarm system when needed. It is, furthermore, a point of communication between homeowners and home security companies.
Some control panels have integrated panic buttons. When there is an emergency, you can press this button, which sends signals such as fire and medical alerts to your monitoring centre and the appropriate authorities.
Security cameras
A home security system may have indoor and outdoor security cameras that help to record specific areas of your home. Advanced security cameras also let you view the areas on your devices, such as phones or tablets.
CCTV surveillance systems
Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems usually have multiple strategically placed cameras that monitor your home's entry points and perimeter. Your CCTV system may also include more cameras to monitor high-value items like cars.
You can usually review CCTV systems' after-event footage or view events live. CCTV cameras can deter potential intruders from approaching your home. The best home security cameras have high resolutions and infrared night vision. This, however, depends on your requirements.
Smoke alarm systems
Smoke alarms or smoke detectors are integral components of alert systems, especially in kitchens and bedrooms. Some alarms are activated when smoke begins to fill the home.
Entry sensors
These are also called contact sensors for your window, door, and frame. Entry sensors have magnets that sense when window or door openings are open or closed. The sensor sends an alert (perhaps by mobile app) to the monitoring centre when it detects an opening.
Glass break sensors
This system helps you to detect intruders who avoid activating your entry sensors and break your windows. The glass break sensor is activated when there is a sound of glass breaking. After that, it sends a cell phone warning.
Motion sensors
These home security system components alert you when there is a human movement where there should be none. Usually, this kind of motion triggers the security system and alerts the control panel.
This operation is unlike that of the door and window sensors, which sense an opening action rather than an actual motion. Consider getting pet-friendly motion detectors since they are more likely to ignore the movement of small animals like cats and dogs.
Home alarms and sirens
Home alarms have main control panels that connect to detection devices such as motion detectors and reed switches (magnetic contacts on doors and windows). When these components are triggered, the alarm system goes off.
Sirens typically sound off when home alarms are tripped. This helps draw attention to intrusions and scare away intruders. Sirens may be standalone or included with other devices.
Professional monitoring centres for home security systems
Alarm systems can alert base stations or monitoring centres if the home alarm systems are back-to-base monitored. If the disarm code was accidentally triggered, you can re-enter it.
Otherwise, the alarm system monitoring centre will usually call you if you are away from home to discuss the next steps. Alternatively, some home security systems have key fobs that you can use to arm or disarm your keypad.
Your home's professional monitoring, in the form of security systems, is essential for insurance premiums. Having your alarm systems monitored can help reduce your insurance premiums. This, however, depends on your insurer.
Your security company's main focus areas
People often do not maintain their garage doors or keep them closed, which can be an entry point attraction for burglars. Your home security expert can secure garage doors. They can also secure your key safes.
Home security devices for smart homes
With smart security systems, you can connect to the internet and view live footage, get alarm messages, and control your security system remotely.
Wireless security systems
Many people prefer wireless security systems instead of hardwired security systems. Wireless security systems usually rely on Wi-Fi, batteries, and cellular backup connections to the mobile app and the monitoring centre.
Some Diy home security systems use wireless cameras and motion sensor systems. However, the deterrence level of DIY systems is basic, and you need to maintain them personally. Moreover, they do not send alerts back-to-base.
Video doorbells
You can use video doorbells as your first line of protection when you have intruders and package thieves. The doorbell camera lets you see and communicate remotely with front porch visitors.
Smart carbon monoxide detectors
These devices can be life-saving as they immediately send alarms and messages to your mobile devices. This can help you avoid entry into residences with carbon monoxide leaks.
Like other devices for smart homes (think smart smoke alarms), smart carbon monoxide detectors are already pre-configured. This makes them ready to use.
Upon the detection of CO, the ring alarm goes off, and you are immediately alerted.
CCTV and IP cameras
Smart security systems can have multiple indoor and outdoor cameras for maximum surveillance. These systems may also use IP cameras, which are advanced CCTV camera technology. IP cameras provide images with higher resolutions.
Cost of home security systems
While different security systems have different price points, the cost of professionally installed systems ranges from $900 to $5,000.
Why install your security system professionally?
- You may want to opt for DIY installations of security systems because of the cost of professional system installation and monthly fees for back-to-base monitoring. While it is true that there are DIY security solutions out there in the market, they have varying degrees of effectiveness and performance. You may not end up not being satisfied with the results.
- Also, you may not have the experience to install them yourself. It is best to hire a professional security installer.
- They know how to structure different home security systems with the features you require most so you can have peace of mind. This includes smart home security systems, camera systems like surveillance and outdoor cameras, security alarm systems, window and door sensors, and smart home automation systems.
- They can guide you on features for different home security systems. For example, you can look for the ability to control your alarm system remotely.
- Certified professional installers will help get your intruder alarm system installed. They will also house it within a cabinet so the power supplies will not be easily tampered with.
- However, identity theft and other consequences of third-party access are a concern for professional home security companies. You should, therefore, implement safe online practices and read up on their data privacy policies and terms and conditions.
Hire a contractor for home security systems
This guide has considered what should be included in a home security system. You have also read up on home security devices for smart homes and why you should have your home security system installed professionally.
Hiring a reputed residential and commercial security company and a professional electrical contractor is vital for effective home security systems and better home safety. They can also provide other electrical services and a security and safety guide.
