With the advancement of home automation systems in recent years, home alarm systems have become complex which makes it frustrating to decide which one you want for your home. Fear not, we are here to help! Find a list of the different types of home alarm systems below.
1. Monitored Alarm System
One of the most common alarm systems, a monitored system will alert a call center if the alarm is triggered. The call center will then contact emergency services or police as a result of the triggered alarm.
Although, there are some disadvantages to this system. If an individual wants to enter your home and is aware of the monitored alarm system, they can cut your outdoor phone line in order to gain access without setting off the alarm. This issue can be avoided if your cellular device is used instead of your home phone line.
Another drawback to monitored alarm systems is that even though a third party call center will contact emergency services if the alarm is activated, it can take quite some time for police to arrive at your home. This means that whoever set off the alarm has a lot of time to carry out their intentions, such as stealing valuables.
Finally, this alarm system generally is the most expensive. It can be worth the money, however, be sure to consider the disadvantages before proceeding with your purchase.
2. Unmonitored Alarm System
As the name implies, an unmonitored alarm system will not contact a third party call center when the alarm is triggered. Instead, when the alarm is set off, a loud siren will blast inside and outside of your home.
This alarm system relies on your neighbours and other individuals in the area to respond to the siren sound. However, anyone who set off the alarm will likely leave on their own as a result of the unwanted attention being focused on the home.
A huge benefit to this alarm system is you save money because you are not required to pay monitoring fees as you would with a monitored alarm system. On the other hand, a disadvantage to this alarm system is that you are relying on your neighbours and others in the area to respond which has no guarantee. Be sure to assess the relationship and nature of your neighbours before relying on this system.
3. Wireless Alarm System
Wireless alarm systems are readily available for purchase at a local hardware store and can be installed easily on your own. These systems are great because you don’t have to pay monitoring fees and you can customize the settings however you’d like. This means that you have the liberty to select what sensors, cameras, beams and motion detectors you want to use and their placement.
On the contrary, there are some disadvantages to wireless alarm system. Because the system is wireless, there are limits on how far sensors and cameras can be in order to properly function. Also, the batteries will have to be monitored and replaced often to ensure the alarm system service is not interrupted.
4. Electric Alarm System
Usually, electric alarm systems are installed while a home is being built because the system is integrated into the home’s structure. The alarm system monitors all windows and doors, when they’re opened a beep will be sounded. This system is advantageous for security purposes but also for families with small children.
There are a few disadvantages to the electric alarm systems. First, it can be challenging to install in an existing house. In addition, external electrical currents and lighting can interfere with the alarm system.
