So, you’ve decided to get a home security system. That was an easy decision. So what kind of window and door sensors are you looking for? Will you need motion detectors? A cellular unit? What do you really know about home security equipment?
Before you can start pricing options and talking to home security companies, you’re going to want to know what you’re looking for in home security equipment. The effectiveness of your home alarm system depends on the equipment you choose. See what home security equipment options may be available to you below.
The Basics: Door and Window Contacts
Most home security systems use the same fundamental theory- intruders are going to enter your home in the easiest way possible. That usually means through a ground-floor door or window. That’s why any system you choose should include door and window contacts in your home security equipment.
Wire Sensors: Wire sensors are a simple yet solid way to secure windows and doors. Wires are placed on doors, windows and frames using plunger switches, roller ball contacts or magnets. The wire on the frame connects to the corresponding wire on the door or window when it is closed, completing a circuit. When the alarm is activated, electricity is passed through the connecting wires. In the event that the door or window is opened the door, it separates the connection, or breaks the circuit, triggering the alarm.
Wireless Sensors: Don’t want to run wires throughout your home? Wireless sensors are a great solution both aesthetically and in terms of security. They are also quickly installed and implemented. And they provide the same level of security that old-fashioned wire sensors do.
Motion Detector Alarms: Just like the automatic doors in front of a grocery store, motion detector home alarm systems use ultrasonic sound waves to create a secure environment. When the sound waves are disturbed, the alarm is triggered.
Photo Sensors: Photo-sensors beam light across an area that you wish to be protected. When the light is blocked, the alarm is sounded.
Heat Sensors: All living things emit heat. These commonly used devices use passive infrared sensors to detect body heat and to trigger your alarm.
Glass Break Detectors: Glass-break detectors use the sound of glass breaking to activate an alarm. The system listens for frequencies associated with a forced entry.
Security Cameras
As cameras become smaller in size and less expensive to purchase, video surveillance is becoming a key aspect of home security. Home security cameras can let you see who’s at the door before you open it and can let you keep an eye on your home even when you’re away.
Remote Controls
If you’d like to be able to arm and disarm your system without having to be at your control panel, you’ll need a remote control. Some are made for your keychain so you can simply click a button and activate your home security on your way in or out of the house. Other, more advanced options may give you a broader range of control.
Alarms
Alarm systems, when activated, should produce a loud siren or alarm. This is a vital component of home security equipment because it lets other know that something is wrong, lets the police know which house has been intruded upon. Often a loud noise is all it takes to scare away an intruder. The louder, the flashier, the better.
Auto-Dialers
An auto dial is designed to call an emergency number directly and then play a pre-recorded message that includes your home address and any other information that may be necessary in the event of an emergency.
Control Panels
The control panel is the circuit board that is the main point of communication between your door and window contact points and the monitoring center, if you have a monitored system.
Keypads / Touchpads
A keypad is the user interface for your security system. Some keypads are mounted on the face of the control panel. Separate control panels and keypads are generally associated with higher quality, more robust security systems.
Detectors
Most home security systems come equipped with smoke, carbon monoxide, flood and/or temperature detectors. These systems are on at all times.
Cellular Units
No landline? VOIP that isn’t reliable? Simply worried about losing your phone connection during an emergency? Back-up cellular technology can give you peace of mind that no matter what, you’ll be able to reach your monitoring center. With Cellular protection, even if your landline is cut or down, your system will use the cell phone network to communicate with the authorities.
Window Decals / Yard Signs
This home security equipment prevents intruders from ever thinking they could successfully enter your home. Just think: if you were a burglar, would you choose a home that had a security sticker in the window? Having a sticker and/or yard-sign from a reputable security company can mean the difference between a burglar choosing your home, or moving on.
Batteries / Battery Backups
What happens when the power goes out? If you have VOIP, that means your phone line goes out too. Invest in alarm systems supported by standby batteries, so in the event that you lose power, you won’t lose your ability to protect yourself.
