How to Choose a Residential Alarm System & Service
Because the safety and security of an entire family can depend on making the right choice, selecting a home security system can sometimes seem like a terrifying task. With some basic decision making, a little knowledge of your needs and some careful consideration, you can select the ideal residential security system and service for your home with little or no hassle. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Be aware of options based on your home ownership status. Some rental agreements restrict or even prohibit the installation of residential security systems, and many home security companies refuse to install systems without the express written consent of the homeowner. If you rent your home, your selection may be limited to companies that install and service wireless, easily moved systems.
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Take into consideration how likely you are to move in the foreseeable future. If you will be moving within the next 2 to 4 years, you may consider a wireless security system that can be easily disconnected and taken to your new home. If you do not plan to move, a more permanent wired system may be better suited to your needs.
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Determine how many sensors you may need and where they should go. Home security experts at ADT Security recommend that homeowners protect each window and door on a home's ground level. For this reason, large homes or homes with lots of windows may require a large number of sensors; if a security system must protect several doors and windows in addition to smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and motion sensors, a wireless system can cut down on the number of wires required for connections.
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Determine how much additional protection you need. In addition to typical door and window sensors, many home security systems and companies monitor fire, smoke, motion and personal medical alarms. If you prefer this type of coverage, select a system that can accommodate these options; in addition, the security company you select must be able to monitor these devices.
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Determine how much you want to pay. Security companies offer pricing options ranging from $20 per month to over $100 monthly. While price does not always indicate the level of service you can expect, lower priced companies may service many more clients and, as a result, you may experience longer contact delays when an alarm occurs.
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Look for deals. While residential security companies offer a wide array of services and prices, many also offer frequent sales and package offers. If budget is a priority, you may prefer to wait for a home security sale to lock in a low monitoring rate. Many companies also offer inexpensive or free security systems, sometimes including installation, to customers who sign 1- or 2-year monitoring contracts.
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Select the system and company best suited for your home and financial situation. After evaluating your home ownership status, the need for wired versus wireless security systems, additional features and financial situation, and after browsing available offers and promotional deals, select the system and company that best meets your home and budget needs.
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Tips & Warnings
Security companies frequently offer promotional pricing and free or very inexpensive alarm systems; browse local newspapers, weekly publications and bulk mail coupons to find advertised specials. Some companies offer referral bonuses. If your friends, relatives or neighbors have home security systems and are happy with their experience, consider asking them for a referral to their security service provider.
Some companies receive numerous complaints about their delayed contacts after an alarm, and customers of others note high failure rates on security equipment. Since price is not always an indicator of service quality, be certain to carefully research a company's reputation before signing a contract.
