What You Should Know About Home Security Systems

Many consumers really don't recognize the value of a residential security system before it actually goes off. That's exactly what my neighbor told me at three in the morning a week ago Wednesday. Torn from a deep sleep by the siren-like wailing of Johnny's burglar alarm - Johnny lives two doors down from my little piece of heaven - I wandered over to his house about 30 minutes after the authorities had gone. Even though the cops hadn't made an arrest, by scaring off the intruder before he or she had accessed the house, Johnny's home security system did the job it was intended to do.

If my neighbor's late-night scare doesn't persuade you that a home security system might be an investment worth considering, you might also want to look at the investment from a slightly different angle: reduced premiums for your homeowner's insurance policy. Virtually all insurance carriers will appreciably discount the cost of insurance for a home fitted with a home security system or burglar alarm. My own insurance company gives me a 20 percent discount on my home owner's policy due to the fact I have a security system in place and maintained by a nationally licensed organization. The savings make a big difference in defraying the cost of my security system.

Home alarm systems come in many different types and can easily detect events ranging from unwanted entry to smoke, fire and even hazardous levels of carbon monoxide. A basic installation comprises a keypad, motion detectors and a link to a security center that contacts the police or fire brigade if the alarm is triggered. Costs for a standard set up commonly add up to around one hundred dollars for unit installation and then a regular monthly monitoring fee that normally costs between thirty and forty dollars.

Locating the very best firm to install your home security system needn't be a tedious job. You'll probably discover that friends and relatives who already have their own security system will be happy to make a recommendation. If you don't know someone who already has a system, pay a visit to the website of the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (NBFFA). They will be happy to supply information about security systems and provide a list of recommended companies in your neighborhood that install home security systems and provide monitoring services.

Based on your location, your list of companies will probably feature such nationally recognized names as ADT and Brink's Home Security, as well as many community companies. Make an effort to narrow your list to three to five companies located in your area. Use criteria like being a member in the NBFAA, in addition to involvement in the industry's Installation Quality (IQ) Certification Program. The IQ program gives consumers a yardstick for identifying alarm companies that are pro-active with respect to quality and false alarm problems.

Answers to questions on this brief checklist will help you find the right company to install and operate your home security system:

• Has the company been in business long enough to establish a track record that allows you to judge its performance and competency? Longer is preferable!
• Will it keep track of your home security system's functionality twenty-four hours per day, seven days per week, fifty-two weeks a year? Be certain they're working 24/7/365!
• Is there a secondary power supply so it can safeguard your residence even if the power fails? A good company will continue to operate, even if the lights fail.
• Does the company provide an in-house training curriculum and are personnel well-trained so they can thoroughly set up, monitor and support your security system in the event that repairs are necessary? Make sure the answer to this question is yes!

Last but not least, nothing makes up for a thorough, hands-on inspection of your property with a view to evaluating your security needs. Have the company representative perform a walk-through of your house and explain in detail your security and safety needs and choices. Make sure you get a written list of proposals and a quote in writing for the price of the alarm system and tracking services.

Once you've met with the companies on your list, assess equipment, support and rates. After that, make the phone call and have your security system set up. Don't forget to cut your premiums by informing your insurance firm that you're the proud owner of a new home security system.

Is a home security system worth it? In my view: yes, especially if peace of mind and sweet dreams are high on your list of priorities. You may never need your home security system, but you'll sleep easier for having it, much like me and my next door neighbor Johnny.

Johnny's next door neighbor and security system geek has composed hundreds of online articles or blog posts over the last 5 years on subjects as varied as house cats, tonsil stones and natural relief of chronic pain using a tens unit for chronic pain. Read more of his content by clicking on the above hyperlinks.