Is It Time To Upgrade Your Alarm System?

2 September 2014
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Your alarm system is an integral part of keeping your possessions safe. Many thieves will avoid homes that have security systems installed, since they are a more difficult mark. For anyone that does choose to target you, a security system improves your chances of a catching the thief and recovering your stolen property. Ask yourself these questions to determine if your system could use an upgrade.

Are Parts of Your System Simply Outdated or Worn Out?

Nothing lasts forever, and electronics are not exempt from this simple rule. Sensors will fail and batteries will wear out. Depending on your system, you may be able to upgrade these components as you replace defective parts, or you might have to do the whole system at once. Your system manufacturer will be able to advise you on your options.

Even before the components die, they may get to a point where they are no longer effective at doing their jobs. Older, low-resolution cameras do not provide police with the ability to positively ID a suspect, wired sensors can be cut to allow unrestricted access to your home, and legacy systems simply do not have the options that allow you to effectively use your system with your busy, modern life.

Do You Need to Eliminate Dead Spots or Integrate Your Alarms and Cameras?

One of the downsides to most alarm systems is that they have a physical limit on how many devices are connected at one time. If your installer is especially good at their job, they can evaluate your site and make the correct recommendation the first time. However, if you installed your own system or elected to only have a small system installed due to budget constraints, there may be areas that are not properly protected.

While the final decision to upgrade may come for another reason, it is important to consider the fact that this is an opportunity to increase the number of connected devices. While systems were once limited to the number of physical ports on the back of the box, a wirelessly connected system only has limits placed on it by software. While there is still a limit to what the internal hardware can handle, it is much easier to find a residential security system that can handle a large number of sensors and cameras.

In addition, older systems usually required that cameras and alarms ran on completely separate circuits. Now, you can integrate the two, simplifying your life and reducing the chances of a false alarm.

Do You Want to Be Able to Access Your System From Anywhere?

Modern security systems don't exist just as a keypad on the wall and a phone line connected to your monitoring company. They leverage the power of WiFi and cell coverage to ensure that you, your family, and your monitoring company can access all of the relevant data in real time.

What this means for your life is that instead of running in the door to shut off the alarm every night when you get home, you can use your key fob to turn off the alarm while you are still in the driveway. Are your friends coming over, but you are stuck at work? Have them call you when they arrive and you can use your phone to shut off the alarm. Need to check on your pets or children while you are away? Log into your cameras from your computer and take a peak.

Do You Want to Add Additional Functionality to Your Alarm System?

Having your alarms and security system set up with remote access is an important step in getting your home's protection up to date, but it is no longer the only item in your home that you can access remotely. Thermostats and light switches can now be installed that integrate with your home security system so that you can control them remotely.

Home security systems have come a long way in recent years. In addition to preventing thieves from circumventing the system, newer security systems offer you additional levels of access and control for your home. For more information, visit Alarm Reviews.