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Buying and Installing a Home Security System

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Home security systems can be purchased from home improvement centers and installed by homeowners or through security companies such as, Brink’s and ADT Security Services. You should talk to several home security companies before making a purchase. They should meet with you in your home and assess your needs. Get all pricing quotes in writing including installation fees and warranties. If you purchase your system through a security company they will professionally install the system for you. Be aware that many installers of monitored alarm systems may install systems that only work with their licensed monitoring stations. You may also find that they have lockout codes that prevent you from adjusting your system in any way. On down the road you may want to change monitoring companies so be sure your home security system uses non-proprietary components and that you have the ability to change your codes.

There are basic, mid-level, and high-end home security systems that have different features and advantages and disadvantages.

• Basic Home Security Systems – A basic system normally comes with a control panel and one or two sensors for doors and windows. They come with a motion detector that triggers a siren. The basic systems can be bought hard-wired or wireless. The disadvantage to the basic system is that it only covers entry points and leaves many areas unguarded. The basic home security systems typically sell for $50.00 to $300.00 per system. There is an additional fee for monitoring the system.

• Mid-level Home Security Systems – A mid-level system normally comes with the basic features plus will often have infrared motion detection, glassbreakage sensors, pressure mats, a panic button, and a smoke detector. The mid-level systems can be linked to a monitoring system for a fee. These systems can be purchased as hard-wired or wireless. These systems cover more windows and doors than a basic system. Typically, a mid-level system will sell for $700.00 to $800.00 per system.

• High-end Home Security Systems – A high-end system will normally contain all items of a mid-level system plus smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, flood, and heat-loss detectors. The high-end system covers every possible entry point. They have an optional cell phone alert feature. They are linked to a monitoring service at an additional fee. Most high-end security systems sell for $2,000.00 to $3,000.00 based on the size of your home. There is typically a three to five year monitoring contract with this type of home security system.

Typically, installing a monitored home security system takes anywhere from four hours to two days depending on the size of your home. Be sure to find a reputable installer as your system will do you no good if it is not properly installed.

Next Page: Monitoring the Home Security System

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