Homeowners with a security system set up will agree that having that peace of mind of knowing their home is protected is one of the biggest advantages of security monitoring services. Whether you are at work, out of town for vacation, or on the road, the knowledge that you and authorities will be notified if something awry happens at home is highly reassuring. With the most recent technology, many home security systems allow homeowners to monitor their homes using a mobile phone.

Some homeowners might not be aware but there are monetary benefits to having a home security system. Home insurance companies will look at existing alarm systems as a factor that could decrease fire and intrusion risk and may offer discounts on monthly premiums. The percentage of discount received may vary depending on the home security provider and how sophisticated the system is. Talk to your insurance agent to learn the specifics of your home insurance. A reliable home security system can also increase the value of a house. Buyers are more willing to pay for a home that they see as secure and safe.

What is Included in an Alarm Security System?

Devices included in an alarm system can vary depending on your needs, your budget, and the security system provider. Features can range from entry-level and basic motion sensors to complete packages with heat sensors, fire alarms, and live stream monitoring through a mobile app.

Homeowners who are looking for an alarm system have two options – wired and wireless. Wired systems are the usual choice for alarm systems but trends are shifting as technology continues to develop. Wired systems offer the benefit of DIY installation. Since professionals are not needed, homeowners can take down and set up the system again when they move houses. This option is ideal for those who are handy and do not want to deal with service provider technicians.

Prices and features available can vary per provider. In general, alarm systems offer the following options for monitoring:

• Wireless or wired Central control panel

• Wireless or wired interior and exterior cameras

• Exterior lighting

• Motion sensors

• Window and door sensors to alert if anyone enters the house

• Smoke, gas, carbon monoxide, and fire sensors

• Water and freeze sensors for flooding and colder weather

• Signage to deter intruders

The Cost of an Alarm System

If you still have doubts about setting up an alarm system due to budget constraints, the good news is that newer alarm systems are offered at different price points and features. This gives options to choose from. When looking for an alarm system, you would need to decide between wired and wireless, monitored and unmonitored, and professional installation and DIY. The total cost of an alarm system will depend on the choices you make between these options.

Equipment plus system installation costs can range from $99 to $1,000. Monthly payments, meanwhile can be as low as $20 or reach up to $100. As you research more alarm systems, it becomes more evident that the technology used and the complexity of the system greatly affects the cost. The base price is affordable but once you add more features and more devices, the final bill continues to increase. Smart home integration features are likely to increase the cost of an alarm system, for example. But since many providers allow homeowners to customize their alarm systems, you can still control how much you will pay based on your budget.

Making the Right Choice For Your Home

As technology continues to develop and the market keeps adding more features and newer devices how do you find the right alarm system for your home? Although it can be confusing at first when you start your research, you should make a list of security features that you want to prioritize. How many security cameras would make you feel safe? If you’re not tech-savvy and you are more concerned about preventing burglars, perhaps a system with window and door sensors may suffice. If you are someone who knows their way around tools and setting up devices, then a DIY system with smart home integration could be more advantageous.

Features such as smart home integration, carbon monoxide detection, and fire alarms may also increase the price of an alarm system. However, we will argue that preventing property damage and loss of life is definitely worth the additional cost.

The best advice we can give homeowners is to do thorough research before buying anything. Look into different security system providers, request home demos, and ask for references from previous customers.

Our Best Recommendations for Alarm Systems

ADT Real Protection

Why we recommend: Trustworthy system with smart home integration

Price: $36.99 per month; 6 months money back guarantee

Pros

• Emergency services are not wifi dependent

• Sever packages and device options

• High app rating

Cons

• Requires professional installation

• 3-year lock-in period

ADT, with more than 100 years of experience in the industry, gives homeowners a complete and reliable suite of home security devices. Homeowners can enjoy the advantage of professional installation, access to round-the-clock support, and internal redundancies such as backup batteries and non-reliance on an internet connection.

ADT’s security plans do not come cheap and there is a 3-year lock-in period to consider. They have a money-back guarantee limited to 6 months and the warranty is also purchased separately. Budget is a big factor if you are considering a home security system from ADT. But the company’s experience and reliability match the price of their products and services.

Vivint

• Why we recommend: Smart home integration

• Price: $21.47 per month monitoring service

• 3 days money back guarantee

Pros

• Custom powerful security systems

• Smart home devices integration

• Flexible mobile app

Cons

• No option for DIY installation

• Only 3 days money back guarantee

It’s easy to see why Vivint has a solid reputation in home security. The company offers advanced solutions that homeowners can customize according to their needs. The sales team is comprised of experienced professionals who can help build the right security for your home. In addition to intrusion alarms and motion detectors, there are also security cameras, doorbell cameras, and more.

Outdoor security cameras come with an innovative feature called smart thief deterrence. Smart home devices can be integrated into the system through the Smart Hub management device. If you want a custom and powerful security system, it is worth consulting with Vivint.

Cove

Why we recommend: Easy installation and beginner-friendly system

Price: $17.99 per month; 60 days money back guarantee

Pros

• Easy to install

• No lock-in contract

• Professional monitoring

Cons

• A subscription is required for devices to activate

• Mobile app is reported for bugs

Cove has a collection of security cameras, environmental detectors, alarm systems, and sensors. The products they offer are easy to install and set up and also have warranty coverage for faulty manufacturing. Homeowners can choose between the Cove Basic and Cove Plus professional monitoring plans. Cove Plus includes the use of security cameras while Cove Basic does not.

There is no long lock-in contract although devices will not work if you do not have a monitoring plan subscription. Security systems can be controlled through a mobile app available on both Android and iOS devices. Homeowners have 24/7 access to customer support. Cove offers 60-day money-back guarantee on all their products. Cove is a good consideration if you are looking for a system that is easy to use.

The Final Word

Before choosing a home security company, make sure to do a bit of research. Best of luck in your search to find the right home security company for you!