One question we get asked quite frequently is what sensors and features should I get in a home security system. Most home security systems come with a few window/door sensors, a control panel and a motion sensor. You’ll most likely get a yard sign and a keyfob to so you can disarm your home when you pull up in your car.
The most popular upgrade is in the monitoring itself. The cellular monitoring services from each provider usually includes an iPhone/Android app. This allows you to remotely arm/disarm your home security system. It is a real convenience to have this functionality available when you have maintenance workers coming over to your home. You can let someone in the home while your at work and lock up when they are done.
The remote app also allows you to configure alerts that can be sent to you via a text message. Need to know when the kids get home from school? Just configure the text message alerts to let you know when the garage door opens. The last of the “really cool” features is the ability to stream video to your mobile phone. This is accomplished by purchasing a wireless home security camera, setting it up in your home and logging onto the app. You can switch between video cameras if you installed more than one. This is a great way to keep tabs on the home while your away or even if you wanted to check in on how the babysitter was treating the kids.
Among some of the other upgrade you can do are related to home automation and additional environmental sensors like water/flood sensors or freeze sensors. It all depends what you would like to detect in your home. The stand is fire, intrusion and carbon monoxide but there is virtually a sensor for everything that you can think of.
Home automation is becoming more popular. Homeowner’s can install automatic door locks, adjust the lighting in their homes and control the temperature through a smart thermostat. Home automation is also a great way to save on your utility bills if you family has a habit of leaving the lights on. You can control the temperature for times that you are away from the home to save on heating and cooling costs.
