Common Home Security Questions

Posted on : August 2, 2012

Being that we are in the home security business, we get lots of questions from customers thinking about installing a system in the near future. Most of them arise from a misunderstanding of how security systems work and what they can protect against.

Home Security

Below is a list of some of the most commonly asked questions along with brief answers. Should you have any further questions don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’d be happy to sit down and talk over your home security needs with you.

Q: Is there more to a home security system than just a couple of door and window sensors?
A: Yes, home security systems are much more than just those basic components. While the door and window sensors are the starting point, you can also add interior and exterior motion detectors, exterior lighting, video surveillance cameras, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, flood detectors, and more.

Q: If I buy a security system do I really need alarm monitoring?
A: No, it’s not absolutely necessary for you to include alarm monitoring with your security system. But it doesn’t make much sense to do so. Alarm monitoring prices are extremely affordable while at the same time boosting the effectiveness of your security system considerably. Alarm monitoring is almost like having an electronic security guard watching over your house night and day. If you do run in trouble, your alarm monitoring company has the capability to inform local authorities instantly so that help is on the way in a matter of minutes.

Q: I already have an old system; can I sign up with your company for alarm monitoring?
A: Absolutely! All we need to do is come out and take a look at your system to make sure it’s functioning properly. As long as it is, and it’s capable of hooking into our system we can provide alarm monitoring without the need for new equipment. If new equipment is necessary we’ll do our best to provide you with new equipment that is comparable in both cost and function.

Q: My security company provided me with two codes to arm and disarm the system. Why can’t I get by with just one?
A: it’s understandable that people would not want any extra codes to remember. But if your security company gave you two of them they did so for a reason. One is your standard arm and disarm code while the other is a panic code. The panic code is used to secretly inform the alarm company you’re in trouble should you be face-to-face with an intruder.

Q: Are video surveillance cameras worth the extra money?
A: Surveillance cameras are definitely not for everyone. But if you have a lot of assets or you have reason to believe there is illegal activity going on inside your home, surveillance cameras are a great asset. Some people use them to keep track of baby sitters; others have installed when they plan to have interior work done by a contractor while they’re not at home; still others use them to make sure their children are coming and going according to a prearranged schedule.

Q: can I monitor and adjust my home security system remotely?
A: Today’s technology certainly allows for remote operation if your alarm company offers that service. It’s becoming so common that we can’t imagine a company not offering that option. As long as you have a computer and an Internet connection, or a smart phone with the proper app you can completely control your system from anywhere in the world.