The Difference Between Home Security Systems

When it comes to picking a security system for a home, it isn’t a “one size fits all” sort of things. There are many different types of devices and systems that range from just basic alarms to 24/7 professional surveillance. Some homeowners want all the bells and whistles, while some just want that little bit of extra security to give them a little peace of mind. Some new construction homes that are purchased may even already have a security system installed. But what really is the difference between the different types of security systems? Here are the main types and what sets them apart from each other.

Local Alarms

The first type of system is for the homeowner who just wants a little extra peace of mind. Local alarms consist of basic alarms that don’t require or offer more advanced monitoring, so they can’t be checked on like smart security devices can. An example of local would be window or door sensors that make noise when they sense movement. Local alarms aren’t connected to any sort of control panel, so homeowners using them will have to calibrate all of their alarms separately. Local alarms are also typically battery operated, so Springbank Hill homeowners will need to check them periodically to make sure they’re still working. If a local alarm is activated, unless it turns off automatically after a set amount of time, will require the homeowner to turn it off manually, which can be inconvenient. Although local alarms may seem simple, they can be an effective way to give a home extra security without spending too much money.

Wired Alarm Systems

The next step up from local alarms is what’s called a wired alarm system. While local alarms can be nice, they’re a bit too basic for some people, and wired systems try to fill the gap that local alarms leave behind. Wired alarm systems include things like wired sensors and cameras that are connected to a control panel. If an alarm is triggered, it’ll make noise, and the homeowner will be able to look at the control panel to see which alarm was tripped and turn it off from there with no need to leave their home.

Wired alarm systems can be a great midpoint between local alarms and the final step, but they do come with a drawback. Unless the home was built with a wired alarm system in mind, they can be difficult to install due to all of the wires they require. Because of this, wired alarm systems are typically added to homes as they’re being constructed instead of after.

Wireless Alarm Systems

Because wired alarm systems can be inconvenient for homes that weren’t built around the system, wireless alarm systems have become quite popular. While some wired alarms can be smart, most or all of wireless systems are smart, which means they can be accessed by a smartphone or similar device instead of just from a panel installed in the home. This allows homeowners to watch live video feed from cameras and see if any of their sensors have been set off from anywhere in the world, whether that’s while on vacation in Japan or just in bed at 2 AM. Wireless devices are easy to move around the home, so homeowners can adjust them as needed, which is another advantage they have over wired systems.

No matter what type of system a homeowner is interested in, it’s important to research the different options on the market. Not every system is a good fit for every home, and it’s up to the homeowner to choose the one that will help their home the most.