No matter where you live, home security and vulnerability should always be a concern. Break-ins and vandalism happen in cities, suburbs, and even in rural areas where the closest neighbors may be miles away. Primary residences and businesses are at security vulnerability risk due to housing the majority of an owner’s valuables, but even secondary residences are targets if they are not regularly used. Every year hundreds of cabins and vacation homes are broken into or vandalized and often owners don’t find out until the next time they visit. Security alert systems are often used to mitigate this risk, both by giving immediate notification to the owner and by deterring the intruder. They are so highly recommended that insurance companies usually give discounts on premiums for properties that include some form of alert system. There are several noteworthy professional companies who will do a system install, window security alert system, and 24/7 monitoring for a monthly fee, but many home and business owners see these costs as prohibitive. However, there are many self-installed alternatives that should be considered which do not come with mandatory external monitoring and are very affordable.
DIGOO Wireless Home and Business Security Alarm System
DIGOO Wireless Home and Business Security Alarm System
DIGOO’s basic homeland security system comes with two door/window sensors, a motion sensor, two keychain remotes, and a central control panel. It is designed to be able to support up to 99 devices, including smoke detectors, so it is very scalable. The alarm is not as ear-piercing as can be found in professional systems like ADT’s, but it is plenty loud to alert people in the home and ward off intruders. By installing an optional SIM card, the system can be configured to text and/or call any number the owner wishes when the alarm goes off, so monitoring by an outside company is not needed. The companion mobile app also allows the owner to fully operate the system from their phone. The included keychain remotes can be used to arm or unlock the alarm, as well as send an SOS in case of an emergency. Coming in at under $100 this basic package is a great start for anyone looking to install a security system at a low cost.
Fortress S02-B
Fortress S02 B
This complete system comes with enough peripherals to completely secure the average home or small business. Between the 10 door/window sensors and the 3 motion detectors, every entry point and important room will be covered. Unlike many budget-friendly sets, the S02-B bundle even includes a piercing 140 decibel alarm, an extra outdoor siren, and four alarm warning stickers (known for being quite the deterrence themselves). A panic button, panic alarm, and three key fobs round out the system to allow for mobile triggering and disarming. With an accompanying landline, the S02-B can be programmed to automatically call a set number in the case of a breach, so no external monitoring will not be missed. If the system needs to be expanded it can handle up to 99 sensors. It comes with a 3 year warranty and excellent customer service, so if anything is broken out of the box or stops working Fortress will readily replace it. The only downside to this system is that it does not have a companion mobile app.
SimpliSafe Wireless Home Security Command
SimpliSafe Wireless Home Security Command
SimpliSafe has quickly become a well-known name in the DIY security system market. This particular offering comes in several different packages, with the starter Alpha package including one each of the base station, keypad, entry sensor, motion detector, and master key chain remote. It is quite easy to set up, though many reviewers caution that sensors should be installed with both the tape and the screws that they come with for added security. SimpliSafe works as a standalone installation but customers can also pay a monthly fee, cancellable at any time, for monitoring by the SimpliSafe professionals. SimpliSafe systems are easily expandable if more sensors are needed and can be just as easily uninstalled, making them great for rental spaces and long term planning. If an upgrade is ever needed SimpliSafe also makes devices such as HD security cameras which seamlessly integrate with the existing set-up. The Delta package adds an auxiliary siren, and the Echo package also includes a glassbreak sensor, smoke alarm, and panic button to create a well-rounded home security system.
Arlo Pro by Netgear
Arlo Pro by Netgear
For those who would rather have a visual based system, the Arlo Pro by Netgear is one of the best camera systems on the market, made by a company with an excellent reputation for quality. This kit is sold in several bundles based on desired number of cameras, but generally is comprised of a base with built in alarm, plus the HD wireless cameras with 130 degree angle lenses. It is quick and easy to set up and the mobile app is very intuitive to navigate. One of the major advantages of the Arlo system is that it comes with free cloud storage that keeps the past 7 days of video for up to 5 cameras. If additional cameras are needed then additional cloud storage can be purchased. Arlo Pro has two way audio, so the user can hear what is going on and also communicate back through to whomever is on the video end. Alerts to the owner can be triggered by motion and sound, and the 100 decibel siren can either be manually triggered or configured to go off when the motion or sound alert is activated. The cameras come with rechargeable batteries so there is no need to stock up on replacements, and their power level can easily be monitored through the app. This system also works with Amazon Alexa, the Echo Show, and the Fire TV, so it is easily integrated into a home with existing Amazon devices.
No matter the budget, property size, or location, there is a security alert system out there for everyone to decrease your vulnerability. Too often owners begin shopping for a system only after they have already suffered a break in. Given the capabilities and prices of the DIY systems on the market, there is no reason not to purchase and install one today for peace of mind tomorrow.