Intruder alarm systems are one of the most effective steps that you can take to help protect your home, family and possessions from potential harm or theft. But with so many different types of burglar alarms and home security systems out there it’s not always easy to decide which would most benefit you.
Here are our top tips to help you choose the right intruder alarm system for your home.
Things to Consider
- Price
It might be tempting to cut corners and use substandard systems that can be purchased online but when it comes to protecting your home – professional systems will always be superior and don’t necessarily cost as much as people might think.
- Features and Functionality
With technological advances there are now more available features for alarm systems that could benefit you such as;
- Pet friendly systems that can differentiate between your beloved animals and an intruder and won’t set the alarms off every time they have a wander round.
- Integrated ‘Smart’ technology allows for systems to be integrated with smart home systems such as Alexa and Home Hub for use via voice command.
- Phone apps can be used with some systems to allow easy arming, disarming and monitoring of your system from wherever you are.
- Systems with cellular back up work even when the Wi-Fi fails which means the home stays protected.
- Home Layout
Although a professional alarm company will be able to advise you during your initial consultation of potential weaknesses or vulnerable points in your home it’s always a good idea to bear in mind your homes layout as you will know it better than anyone.
Types of Alarms
Here is a quick guide to some of the alarm systems available on the market;
Wired Alarms – These reliable and robust systems are very reliable and require less maintenance than wireless alternatives. They have to be professionally installed to ensure that they are fitted properly and that the necessary wires are hidden but they are very effective once installed and require just an annual service check-up. They can communicate an alert to the monitoring company, via text or phone call to the homeowner or direct to the police if required.
Wireless Alarms – With battery powered sensors these alarms communicate to the main control panel via radio signal. They don’t require professional installation but they are vulnerable to interference and hacking and the batteries will need to be checked and replaced regularly.
Bell Only Alarms – These are one of the most basic intruder alarms and work by making a loud noise and alarm sound when they are triggered. They could work as a small deterrent but most burglars would easily recognise a basic system and work their way around it knowing that no alert can be sent out.
Additional Steps
You don’t need to make your home Fort Knox, but by taking steps to protect your home you will not only put in place an effective deterrent but also a solution to scare off or catch in the act, anybody that tries.
Intruder alarms are at the forefront of home security and used in conjunction with other security measures such as CCTV, motion detector lights, panic alarms and door entry systems can help to provide peace of mind knowing that your home is secure whether you are there or not.
For more information on our intruder alarms Chelmsford don’t hesitate to get in touch and one of our professional, friendly advisors will be happy to help you.