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What's New in Home Security

Monday, January 13th

What's New in Home Security

Home security systems are hardly a new thing. They've been in existence for over a hundred years. Some security agencies, such as ADT, boast they've been in business since 1874. While window bars and modified door locks once were enough to protect homes in the early days of home security services, they do little today to protect homeowners and their valuables. Lucky for us, there are much more advanced technologies available to provide round-the-clock protection for our homes and our families.

In the era of never-ending technology advancements, home security companies continues to evolve, adding new and convenient features for the technologically savvy. There are some new and exciting technology trends coming our way, some of which may attract customers who previously were not interested in owning a home security system.

Some may question the need for technology integrating even more with our homes. After all, what if a computerized home entry system were to fail? What happens when home automation systems become out of date? However, many home security companies are hard at work tackling these issues and finding solutions to these problems. As computers become more reliable and advanced, efficiently integrating new technologies into our home security systems becomes the natural thing to do

Going wireless

One of the most exciting technological advances in home security systems is the inclusion of wireless capabilities. Wireless home security systems not only allow a customer to monitor their homes from their Smartphones or other android devices - they also provide an added layer of security not available through wired security systems.

Take for instance a power outage. With a traditional wired system, the home's security protection would lapse while the power was out or if a phone line became damaged, leaving your home vulnerable. With a wireless system - which does not use landlines or electricity to function - the monitoring center still will receive a signal if the alarm is triggered. Wireless systems also can be installed more quickly and are very portable.

Video Monitoring

Closed-circuit television has been used for decades in private businesses. Until recently, however, it was too pricey for the average homeowner to afford. The ability to view and review video can be a helpful feature in the event your home is burglarized. Homeowners who have a wireless system also have the added benefit of being able to tap into the CCTV to view their home from their Smartphones or android devices. The ability to see your home while you're away from it is a very attractive feature for many.

Automated Systems

Some home security systems offer more than just home security capabilities. Most home security companies now are offering home automation services as part of their wireless plans. The systems allow customers to use their Smartphones or a remote control device to perform tasks such as adjusting their thermostats or turning lights on or off. This is an optional feature and may not be provided by every home security company, so be sure to ask when researching if this is an important feature for you.

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Canadian Home Security FAQ

There are more than 2 million break-ins every year in the United States alone. Home security systems are the most logical way to give yourself the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you, your loved ones and your property are being watched over.
The most important feature is 24/7 monitoring, which most services offer as part of your monthly fees. At a minimum, you'll want to have sensors for all of the exterior doors in your residence.
There are many add-ons that can offer additional security and protection. Your home security system could have smoke and CO2 detectors, flooding sensors, motion detectors, night vision cameras, and much more.
You'll find plans both with and without required service contracts. The tradeoff is usually in the price of the equipment vs. the monthly service fees. (See the next question for more on that.)
That depends. You should expect two costs: equipment and monthly service charges. Some providers of home security systems give you the equipment "for free", as long as you sign a contract (usually 2-5 years). Others have you pay for the equipment upfront as a one-time charge, but their monthly fees tend to be lower. And, with most services, you'll pay more for monthly monitoring if your system has all of the bells and whistles.
One of the most customer-friendly aspects of today's home security systems is DIY installation. While there are still a handful of companies that require you to sit down with a sales rep and then wait for a professional to come and set up your system, the vast majority are designed to be easy and fast for you to install yourself. You'll have ample support via phone or online chat if you need extra guidance during the process.
Yes, most of the time. You'll typically have a 30-day window to use your home security system and decide if it provides the protection and service you need. Terms vary, however: you may get a full refund for all fees paid, or you may only be allowed to break your contract without getting any money back. Be sure to understand the details of any plan you select, before you sign up.
Usually, yes. Because of the do-it-yourself nature of most of today's systems, you can uninstall and move your equipment just as easily as you set it up the first time. You'll just need to update the company with your current address, so that emergency responders have the right location in the event of an alarm.
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