Most Important Features for a Home Security System
Home Security has become a high-tech business with so many amazing options available to you. Being spoilt for choice can be somewhat bewildering though. Leaving many people wondering what home security functions are the most important?
If you’re considering a security system for your home the options are seemingly limitless. However, your budget probably is not. To get all the security features you want, at a price you can afford, requires some thought and planning. You need to prioritize. Make sure the important basics are taken care of and then look at what might be nice if you can afford it.
We’re going to be discussing the most important functions of a basic home security system.
Sensors
In order to detect movement, open doors or windows, smoke, and even breaking glass, a home security system requires sensors. These are the cornerstone of any basic home security system. Let’s take a look at what sensors you can install in your home to improve your security and safety:
- Entryway sensors: These are installed on doors and windows. They are small magnetic field detectors that will activate the alarm and alert systems when the field is broken.
- Motion Sensors: Motion sensors can be installed indoors or outdoors. They will detect any movement by using a light beam or laser.
- Glass-break Sensors: These are small microphones placed close to windows that detect when the glass is broken.
- Smart Smoke and CO Detectors: These work like traditional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors with the added benefit of remote monitoring using a smartphone app. This allows you to check on their status when you’re not home and receive instant alerts anywhere if a problem is detected.
- Smart Water leak Detectors: To prevent flooding, these detectors can be installed near faucets and will alert you when there is a leak.
Cameras
High-resolution cameras have become one of the best burglary deterrents. You can have a number of features along with the camera, like long-term cloud storage.
The most important feature, offered by most home security cameras, is remote access. This means you can check what’s happening in your home at any time, using a smartphone app.
Remote access to your security camera has additional benefits, like checking up on your children or pets when you’re not home.
Panic Buttons
Panic buttons can be installed in critical areas, like at your bed. You can also get home security systems with a remote fob that you can keep with you. When you activate the panic button, the security control center will be alerted by a landline, a cellular connection, or Wi-Fi. When the distress call is received, security and/or police officers will be sent to help you.
Flood Lights
Outdoor lighting is a great way to prevent intruders from coming too close to your home. They can operate using a motion sensor. This means the light only activates when someone moves in your yard.
Video Doorbells
A video doorbell allows you to see who is at your door. Some models can also record what is happening when you’re not home. These will be activated anytime someone approaches the door.
Home Automation
Home automation systems can be expensive and complex or quite basic and inexpensive. They allow you to control functions in your home remotely, using a smartphone or tablet.
The most basic home automation system should allow you to switch your lights on when you’re not home, or program them to switch on at preset or random times. This is a great security function, as it creates the impression that people are present in the house.