Beyond Locks and Alarms: Next-Level Residential Security Solutions
8 Important Types of Residential Security Solutions
Different homes have varying security needs based on size, location, and layout. Understanding the types of home security systems allows homeowners to customize their Residential security solutions to suit their specific requirements.
Not all security systems are created equal. Some may be more effective than others in deterring burglars or alerting homeowners to potential threats. By knowing the types of home security systems available, homeowners can choose the most modern security systems for their needs.
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Types of Home Security Systems
Fire Alarm System
In real-time, fire alarm systems detect and notify building occupants and emergency responders of fire, smoke, carbon monoxide, and other safety risks. They help evacuate safely while alerting firefighters to where blazes may be present.
Fire alarm panels may get power from various sources: an electric utility, dedicated circuit, engine-driven generators (not to be confused with site generators that meet NFPA 72 requirements), energy storage systems, or emergency sources such as sealed lead-acid batteries. For more details on power sources for fire alarm security systems, please see this blog post.
Wired Alarm Home Security System
Wired home security systems differ from their wireless counterparts by being hardwired into your building’s electrical infrastructure. They use wires to transmit signals from sensors directly to a central control panel and eventually activate alarms or security cameras when activated by sensors. They’re typically also linked with landlines for emergencies should someone break in.
However, one drawback of these home security systems is their difficulty of installation in existing homes—often requiring professional installation services—due to the need to run new wires throughout your residence at considerable expense and time commitment. Furthermore, they’re impractical for transport should you move locations.
The top wired home security systems include features such as multiple control panels in various rooms, an HD security camera, and even glass-break sensors to protect vulnerable areas of your home.
Wireless Home Security Systems
Once activated, these security systems monitor the home or surrounding area for suspicious activity. Sensors send signals to the control panel (often a touchscreen mounted on your wall or a small box hidden away in a cupboard) if a sensor trips, alerting you, any emergency contacts you’ve specified, and law enforcement if needed.
Professional installation of wired security systems requires professional installation services. Installers must run wires from every sensor in your home (door, window, motion, and glass-break sensors) back to the control panel, often behind drywall. This may prove challenging in older houses with existing wiring.
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Unmonitored Alarm Systems
These are not DIY home security systems and consist of equipment that requires professional installation. These include motion sensors, door/window sensors, smoke detectors, and sirens. In some instances, unmonitored systems even support smartphone access, allowing for professional monitoring from anywhere in the world. Unmonitored systems generally have lower monthly fees than their monitored counterparts.
Now, many unmonitored alarm systems offer features to help avoid such mistakes. The best home security system features real-time alerts on your mobile phone if an alarm system is activated. Moreover, these systems often come equipped with security cameras featuring local storage space instead of charging an extra fee for cloud services like Dropbox.
Video Surveillance
Home security systems with video surveillance can monitor a property’s interior and exterior, recording footage that can serve as evidence in case of a break-in. Security cameras can be viewed remotely, providing footage for evidence against burglaries. They may include night vision technology, recording capabilities, two-way audio communication, and siren capabilities, which act as deterrents against intruders.
Video surveillance is the most popular solution for businesses, serving as a deterrent to criminals and proof of any possible illegal activities. Businesses with multiple locations, such as restaurants, retail stores, and office buildings, commonly implement it into their operations to deter and provide evidence against any suspected wrongdoers or any suspected violations. Images captured can also be remotely accessed, helping reduce security guard costs significantly.
Environmental Sensors
Environmental sensors monitor various environmental variables, such as temperature, humidity, air quality, and noise, to help avoid disasters such as water and carbon monoxide leakage into the atmosphere, flooding, or fires. They also reduce health hazards and environmental contaminants in homes, businesses, and factories.
Environmental sensor alerts can be sent straight to your smartphone, so you can stay on top of things from anywhere. They’re great for doors, windows, and safes to provide protection. Therefore, a home security system equipped with environmental sensors is invaluable. It provides remote monitoring capabilities and seamless integration into existing CCTV and access control systems for professional monitoring capabilities.
Monitored
Monitored home security systems are installed and managed by security companies and teams of security specialists. Unlike unmonitored security systems, which rely on homeowners recognizing alarm system activations and calling the police, monitored systems connect directly to call centers, where live agents respond immediately when alerts come through.
A self-monitored security system is more affordable than most security systems and easy to customize or expand over time. It also helps reduce false alerts that use up valuable public resources by calling the police and using police resources for unnecessary services.
Wireless System
Smart Home security systems commonly employ wireless sensors to monitor doors and windows and alert in case of intrusion. Unlike wired security systems of old, this type is easy to set up and is considered one of the DIY Security Systems. It also upgrades with new technology that keeps pace with changes in lifestyle and family dynamics.
Some wireless systems work exclusively through mobile apps and don’t require landline or cellular service to communicate with a monitoring company. Others provide either landline or cell backup service as a fail-safe in the event of power outages or intruders cutting Wi-Fi connections. However, this may incur monthly fees; such backup options could prove helpful should there be power outages.
Conclusion
Ensuring the safety and security of one’s home is paramount in today’s world. With a plethora of advanced home security systems available, homeowners can tailor their security measures to suit their specific needs and preferences.
From traditional options like fire alarm systems to cutting-edge solutions such as wireless home security systems, there’s a wide array of choices to consider. Each system comes with its own set of features and benefits, allowing homeowners to find the perfect fit for their property.
For homeowners seeking peace of mind and protection for their families and properties, Prairietech provides cutting-edge residential security solutions. From advanced fire alarm systems to state-of-the-art video surveillance and environmental sensors, we offer a full suite of options to ensure the safety and security of your home. Contact now for a free consultation.
