Wednesday, June 7th
2023 Home Security System Reviews
Guardian Protection
- Professionally-installed home security systems
- Several packages to choose from
- Solid customer service
- "A+" rated and accredited by the BBB
- Limited service area
- In business for over 70 years
Guardian Protection has been in the home security systems market for nearly 70 years and has provided peace of mind to hundreds of thousands of customers. The company has received several awards for the excellent service of its monitoring center, including the prestigious Angie's List Super Service Award.
Professional install required
All of Guardian Protection's home security systems provide the ability to arm and disarm remotely through an internet-connected device like a smartphone, tablet, or computer. You'll also receive email or text alerts when the alarm goes off or a sensor is triggered. However, professional installation by a Guardian technician is required for all packages, regardless of which one you select.
Many equipment packages on offer
Speaking of packages, there are nine ready-made options offered here, all named according to what features might be most desirable for your home environment:
- Bachelor(ette) Pad
- Burglar Buster
- Family First
- Frequent Flyer
- Healthy (Green) Home
- Home Security Essentials
- Pet Parent
- Protect My Parents
- The Works
Easy to choose
Guardian's website makes it easy to choose packages that you think might be a good fit and compare up to three of them side-by-side. As you'd expect from the name, The Works is the one to consider if you want Guardian's top-of-the-line package. It includes a long list of features, from the basics like five door/window sensors, indoor and outdoor cameras, and a video doorbell, plus plenty of extras ranging from a medical pendant to smart home features like thermostats and garage door openers.
No pricing specifics unless you reach out for a quote
Unfortunately, the Guardian website is not very transparent about their pricing, which is a downside compared to some rival home security system providers who are more upfront about their equipment costs, installation fees, and monthly charges. Like those more traditional competitors, Guardian requires you to contact a sales representative to evaluate your security requirements and receive advice on equipment and monitoring options. Based on customer feedback, it seems reasonable to expect that Guardian will charge a minimum of $99 for installation and at least $34.95/month for monitoring. However, the overall cost of equipment and monthly charges will vary depending on factors such as your location, any promotions or discounts offered by the sales representative, and other factors that are discussed during the sales process.
Contracts of three to five years?
We also found customers referring to fairly lengthy contracts with Guardian Protection, anywhere from three to five years. You'll want to get that information nailed down before you sign anything, because some of those client comments said they felt tricked into a contract by signing once during the sales process and having their signature automatically applied to other areas of the agreement.
Good overall reputation
Guardian Protection has an "A+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, and a much lower number of complaints than many of its rivals within the home security system industry: just 54 filed with the BBB in the most recent 12-month period. Feedback via Trustpilot tracks with that as well: out of 2,000+ ratings, Guardian Protection has an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars, with over 75% giving the company a perfect score.
A few notes of discontent
We think it's important to point out that the BBB referenced a settlement in Arizona regarding non-disclosure of early termination fees - and maybe that's why the state no longer shows up as a service area for these home security systems. And, for the customers who went to the BBB or to Trustpilot to complain, their remarks typically center around those contract issues - so it's important to read ALL of the fine print and double-check anything you sign as part of the sign-up process, if you choose a Guardian Protection home security system.
Still recommended but could increase pricing transparency
Guardian Protection has a great reputation for providing quality service, and so we've continued to rate them at 3.5 stars. However, to be competitive with the top home security system providers, they need to be more transparent about their costs and expand their coverage area to reach a wider range of customers. If you do have Guardian available in your area, we also recommend that you pay very close attention to the details of your home security system package, especially with respect to contract length and early termination fees.
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Which Home Security System is the Best?
Home security systems have become increasingly popular in recent years, as people seek to protect their homes and families from potential threats. With a wide variety of options available on the market, choosing the right system for your needs can be overwhelming. We can help you take the stress out of the decision-making process and ultimately select a home security setup that's perfect wherever you live.
Let's get started. As you already know, a home security system is a network of electronic devices designed to secure your home against theft, vandalism, and other possible dangers. A typical system may include sensors, cameras, alarms, and monitoring services.
Home Security System FAQ
Continued from above...
Sensors are the backbone of a home security system. They detect any unusual activity in and around your home and alert the system. The most common types of sensors are door and window sensors, motion sensors, and glass-break sensors. Door and window sensors are placed on the frames of doors and windows and detect any movement when the doors or windows are opened or closed. Motion sensors detect movement within a room, while glass-break sensors detect the sound of breaking glass. Pretty self-explanatory.
Cameras are an essential component of many home security systems. They provide visual evidence of any unusual activity around your home and can help identify intruders. Most cameras are connected to the internet, allowing you to view the footage remotely from your phone or computer.
Alarms are designed to alert you and your neighbors to any potential threats. When a sensor is triggered, the alarm will sound, and a notification will be sent to your phone or monitoring service. These companies monitor your home security system 24/7, and if a sensor is triggered, they will usually contact you to verify whether there is a genuine threat. If they are unable to reach you, they will contact the authorities on your behalf.
Now that you have a solid understanding of the basics of any home security system, what other factors might have an impact on your decision? Here are some criteria to consider:
- Professional install vs. DIY. Professionally-installed systems are designed for those who want a more comprehensive setup, often including cameras, sensors, alarms, and monitoring services. The professional install makes these systems more expensive than DIY systems but provide a higher level of security. DIY systems are designed for those who want affordability and are willing to install and maintain their home security system.
- Cost. Will you pay upfront for the service and/or equipment? What monthly fees are involved? Contracts can often range from 3-5 years, but not every home security system requires one.
- Portability of service. Can you take your home security system with you if you move, either by taking the equipment itself or transferring your contract and having a new install?
- Cancellation. What happens if you decide you don't need a home security system anymore? Many providers have hefty cancellation fees, especially if you signed a lengthy contract in exchange for no upfront equipment costs.
- Trial period. The best home security providers give you a grace period to see how the system works. After all, there's a pretty steep learning curve involved, and you want to make sure your system gives you the coverage and peace of mind you're paying for.
- Satisfaction guarantee/refund policy. Can you get your money back if you don't like how your security system works once it's installed?
- Customer feedback. What do other homeowners have to say about the home security system? Is the customer service team responsive? How often does the system register false alarms?
Top Consumer Reviews brings you the ultimate guide to the best home security systems on the market today. Our comprehensive review and ranking system is designed to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision and protect your loved ones both now and in the future.
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