Buying a home alarm system can be one of the smartest moves for protecting your home and family. Millions of homes are burglarized every year and security systems are proven to reduce this risk.
While deciding you need a DIY home alarm system is relatively easy, finding the right one can be a little overwhelming. You have a vast array of different choices for the type of system to install, and even within each type of system, you have different options for equipment and features.
Since there is no one-size-fits-all protection way that will work for every home, you need to take some time to assess your needs. In this post, we are going to look at some of the questions you should ask yourself when selecting an alarm system.
Should I Get Professional Installation or Buy a DIY Alarm System?
Deciding between a professional installation and a DIY setup is one of the first things you will need to consider. In the past, there was an incredible gap between what you could do with a DIY system and the more advanced systems that require professional installation, but with improvements in wireless technology, you can set up a reliable alarm system without the skills of a professional installer.
One example is the helix security system & alarm panel from Cornerstone Protection. These wireless burglar alarm systems come with all of the most important features, but it is designed for user-friendly installation. In as little as fifteen minutes, you can install a system that will provide protection against burglary, fire, floods, and more.
Wired or Wireless?
In the past, most security experts would have recommended wired systems over those that operate wirelessly. The early wireless devices could be unreliable, and the range wasn’t that good. In addition to that, they could be vulnerable to outside attacks. For today’s consumer, the answer isn’t as straightforward. Advances in wireless technology and encryption have solved the problems of range, reliability, and the potential for outside attacks.
A great example of this is the Powerseries Neo security alarm system. It offers all the reliability of a hardwired system but it uses wireless devices. With its PowerG connectivity, it has a wireless range of more than a mile and it uses 128-bit encryption to maintain signal protection. If you are looking for a wireless system that is reliable and easy to use, there are few that can match the capabilities of the Neo.
Do I Need Security Cameras?
Getting a protection rule can be a great way to protect the home, but surveillance cameras are one of the most effective deterrents against burglars. can be a great way to protect the home, but surveillance cameras are one of the most effective deterrents against burglars. Cornerstone protection offers a number of wireless alarms systems that come with CCTV cameras, and many of them are wireless, so they don’t require running wires or drilling holes in the walls. Additionally, many of these systems are compatible with smartphone apps that will provide capabilities like remote monitoring.
Another nice camera feature is the SkyBell WiFi Video Doorbell. This doorbell comes equipped with an HD camera and a speaker and microphone. With this piece of equipment, you can see who is at your door from your phone or tablet, and you can even talk to them. You can also check the app when you are away from home, and if you have smart locks installed, you can unlock the door right from your phone.
How Many Security Zones Do I Need?
The number of safety zones will determine the number of devices that can connect to the protection plan. If you have a large property to secure, you might need to connect more motion detectors, cameras, smoke detectors, door contacts, etc. Before you buy a panel, you should consider the number of devices that need to connect to make sure you get a board that can support the protection you need.
As an example, the above-mentioned Helix panel can support up to 96 zones. That should be enough for most small to medium size structures. You also have alarm panels like the IQ Panel 2 from Qolsys. It is one of the most advanced safety panels currently available and it can support up to 128 wireless zones.
How will the do System Communicate with the Monitoring Station?
Modern safety rules can communicate in a few different ways. You have systems that communicate over a traditional hard telephone line, cellular communications, and systems that communicate over the home internet connection. Each different option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is best to look for a surveillance system that has multiple communication paths.
Cornerstone Protection offers a variety of options for the emergency alarm communication system. With the Helix, you have communication options like Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and cellular. We also have the DSC Powerseries Neo, which can communicate through landline, home internet, and cellular.
Do I want Home Automation Features as well?
Home alarm monitoring systems have come a long way in the last ten years. Older systems didn’t have much in the way of brains. They could be programmed to respond to different event triggers, but they couldn’t send you alerts directly to your phone or manage different features of the home. Modern systems can now connect in with a range of Smart Home technologies to provide better protection and make your life more convenient.
Cornerstone Protection offers a range of Smart Home features that can come with our DIY home monitoring rule. With these features, you will have a central hub where you can manage things like smart lights, smart locks, security cameras, flood sensors, and more. You can even access these features from your phone to make it more convenient or to allow you to monitor and manage the system when you are away from home.
Final Thoughts
A home alarm system can be a good investment, but you need to take some time to consider your needs. With some careful thought, you can get the DIY wireless alarms systems that are right for your home. If you need help selecting the right home alarm system, contact the professionals from Cornerstone safety. We have protection experts standing by to provide you with a free consultation.
