How to Choose a Home Security System

Ensuring the security of one's Canadian home is an important goal for homeowners, whether they're caring for a vacation home or their primary residence. It can be difficult to choose between all the options available, though. Security systems can be wired or wireless and range from cameras to alarms. These tips help people determine which home security system will be right for them.

Make a List of Needs

Home security systems offer a variety of protections available for homeowners. People will have an easier time sorting through what is possible if they first create a list of what they expect from a home security system. Homeowners should walk through their day and identify moments when they need security most, including:

• travel
• protecting valuable items
• security while at home

This discussion should involve all household members, including any older children and teenagers who may be entering or exiting the home at different times. People need a system that is functional for all the home residents who will be using it.

Set a Budget

Home security systems range from very inexpensive to a high level of constant protection, and the prices are set accordingly. Homeowners should keep in mind that they will likely have to pay for the purchase and installation of the system, as well as monthly or yearly fees for monitoring. In some cases, a home security system can also secure a discount on the homeowners insurance policy. Different companies often have unique pricing guidelines for the services they offer. When looking at service plans, it is important to read all the fine print. Some programs charge fees for moving or cancellation.

Research Current Features

With a connection to smart home systems, security features could be very complex. Homeowners can consider solutions to their concerns and most common problems with technology such as:

• remote access
• light and motion sensors
• alerts to a monitoring service
• precautions against common home hazards (e.g. smoke or carbon-monoxide detection)

Many systems are designed to combine all of these and other options into one package that will combine with the home to create a smart home. Modern equipment connects to Wi-Fi and can be easy for homeowners to manage from a smartphone or tablet, making the process as simple as possible to ensure that all residents can use it correctly every time.

Look at Service Options

The type of system that makes sense depends on the length of time people plan to stay in the home and the way they live. Some people live fairly simply, spending most of their time in the home. In this case, a service that offers monitoring but focuses mostly on smart locks may be ideal. Others like to travel a lot or keep many high-value items in the home. These homeowners might prefer something that provides better deterrents from break-ins, especially while they are gone. Since high-end systems usually cost more, homeowners should factor in their use of it into their decision. Equipment is not always portable from one home to another, so people who are planning to move soon may want to choose a more modest option.

Consider Interoperability

The advent of smart home technology has revolutionized how people think about home security. The way that the home security system works with a smart home makes a big difference in a homeowner's ability to use it. Systems should offer some access on major smartphone operating systems, and can be a key smart tech upgrade for a home. Homeowners who have another smart home system may want to see if the home security technology will interact with it before making a purchase.

Do You Want to Install it Yourself?

Whether you can install the security system yourself or need a professional depends on what system you choose. Some will be easier than others to install, especially if you have DIY experience. Installing the system on your own could help save money, because you won't have to pay any experts for coming out and the systems that can be installed by homeowners tend to be less expensive to begin with. But if you're looking for a higher-end option, you might have to call in an expert. 

Buying a home security system is an investment in safety and peace of mind. When homeowners follow this advice, they will be able to choose a system that will put their security worries to rest.