Factors that You Should Consider When Choosing Alarm Systems
As the owner of a home or business, you know how important it is to keep your property safe and secure. With the increasing number of break-ins and burglaries, it is crucial to take proactive measures to protect your valuable assets. One of the most effective ways to do this is to install an alarm system. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. In this blog, we will discuss some important factors to consider when choosing an alarm system.
Perimeter Protection vs. Interior Protection
The first thing to consider when choosing an alarm system is whether you need perimeter protection or interior protection. Perimeter protection refers to sensors installed on doors and windows that set off the alarm whenever a window or door is forced open. Full perimeter protection means that every possible point of entry has a sensor. On the other hand, interior protection refers to a “motion sensor” that detects someone inside. While interior protection primarily protects property, perimeter protection emphasizes personal safety. A good system should combine perimeter protection with one or more interior sensors that can be turned on or off independently of the perimeter devices.
Hardware
When it comes to hardware, there are two types of alarm systems: hard-wired and wireless. Hard-wired systems run wires through your walls and floors to connect the sensors. The advantage of a hard-wired system is dependability. There are no batteries to change, and the sensors are easily concealed. On the other hand, wireless systems’ sensors transmit a radio signal when they detect an intrusion. They can be installed in a few hours with less mess, and changing the system later is easier. However, wireless systems have batteries that must be changed, and they may be less dependable than hard-wired systems.
Supervised vs. Unsupervised Systems
Supervised systems tell you when a door or window is open, and they indicate if a sensor is not working. With most, the alarm control panel also tells where the problem is. When you leave a door or window open, or if a sensor is not working, you won’t know it with an unsupervised system. The danger is that your alarm will be set, but a window may be open.
Off Premises Monitoring
A proper home burglar alarm system should feature a distinct signal on the premises, both inside and outside. In this manner, the occupants, the intruder, and the neighbors are alerted at the same time. The mere fact that an alarm system exists is often sufficient deterrent to discourage a burglar even before he tries to force an entry. In addition, the local alarm signal is generally enough to scare off most intruders once they sound. Silent alarms, which do not sound on the premises but merely alert an off-premises monitoring source, are not recommended for residences, since they allow the intruder inside where he may be in a position to threaten an occupant while police respond to the silent signal.
Glass Break Detectors
Glass break detectors are devices that set off an alarm when breaking glass is heard. They tend to be sensitive to similar sounds, like jingling car keys or a dropped plate in the kitchen. If adjusted to avoid false alarms from anything other than the actual window panes, they may not work when those panes are actually broken. Therefore, these should be used only when a massive glass area represents the obvious entry point, and careful calibration must be used for effective detection.
Choosing the Right Alarm Company
When choosing an alarm company, select a well-established company with a record of successful operation behind it. The failure rate among companies entering the field is high, and you don’t want to be left with a system that requires service with no one to do the job. Make sure any employees who have access to your home are bonded, and check whether the alarm company has errors and omissions insurance. Additionally, check for any hidden costs and ensure that the alarm company meets industry-accepted standards.
Final Thoughts
An alarm system is only as good as the reliability of its power supply. The most dependability is provided by a system that operates on household electric power, with emergency backup power provided by a battery to ensure operation during emergencies. A quality system should carry a reasonable warranty covering both parts and labor, from both the manufacturer and the installer for a period of one year from the date of installation. By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the right alarm system to keep your property safe and secure.
If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality alarm system for your home or business, look no further than Spy vs Spy. Our state-of-the-art security systems are designed to protect against unauthorized access, theft, and vandalism. With our advanced technology and expert installation, you can enjoy round-the-clock monitoring, remote access, and real-time alerts, ensuring a safe and secure environment for your property.
Contact us today to learn more about our alarm systems and how we can help you protect your home or business. To get in touch with us, please click here or call us at (250) 868-8812
