A Comprehensive Guide from DIYwithHelp
Home security systems are a vital part of keeping your home and possessions safe. But, with so many different options out there, it can be hard to know which system is right for your home.
In this post, we’ll provide an overview of home security systems, the different types and how they might work for you, along with some helpful tips for installation and use. Let’s dive in…
Introduction to Home Security Systems
At their most basic, home security systems will let you know if someone unauthorized enters your home.
Why Invest in a Home Security System
A house without any security system is at risk of burglary, which can lead to financial loss and emotional distress.
Investing in a home security system protects your home, your possessions and your family, and provides you with peace of mind.
Not to mention, these systems can be tailored to a range of budgets and needs. So, you’ll easily be able to find a home security systems that works for you and your wallet.
Types of Home Security Systems
Traditional home security systems allow you to monitor your home. They alert authorities if an intruder is detected. Many traditional systems feature a camera that can be set up to record footage from outside your home, allowing you to monitor and review footage after the house alarm is triggered.
Home security has become more advanced in recent years, with a variety of systems now available to protect your home from intrusion and other threats. Modern home security systems often come with:
- Motion sensors
- Window and door alarms
- CCTV systems
- Doorbell cameras
- Motion-activated cameras
- Smoke generators
- Glass-break detectors
- Panic buttons
With a modern security system, you’ll also be able to view footage from your cameras in real-time. However, Smart security systems are the most advanced, offering features such as automated door locks. They even have facial recognition capabilities.
Security Cameras and CCTV
Let’s take a moment to focus on home security cameras, perhaps the most fundamental part of a home security system.
Exterior cameras can help you keep an eye on what is happening outside your home at all times, making it harder for intruders to sneak in without being noticed. Also, they help deter burglars by providing a visual deterrent.
Interior home security cameras work much the same way. You can use them to keep an eye on children, elderly family members, and pets while you're away. They’re convenient and can be integrated into a full home security system. With the right interior cameras, you'll be able to protect your family and home from danger, and protect yourself from liability.
However, you don’t need to purchase a whole security system to take advantage of security cameras. DIY home security cameras are a great way to beef up your home security system without spending a lot of money. Many DIY security cameras come with features such as two-way audio and video, motion detection, and night vision.
Installing a DIY home security camera system is relatively easy. With basic DIY tools like a drill, you can select your camera locations, affix them to your home’s exterior and interior walls, and, if they’re wireless, connect them to your internet. Many modern security cameras are controlled from an app on your phone.
To add to this, some camera systems can be paired with additional security devices, like door and window sensors, to make your home even safer. Installing cameras together with properly secured doors and windows is important if you want to make sure that your home is fully protected.
Identifying Your Home Security Needs
Identifying your home security needs will help you determine the best system for your lifestyle and budget. Make sure to research all of the options available to you and compare them to find the best solution for you.
First, take a look around your home and neighborhood and identify areas which would benefit from increased security. For example, do you have a passage at the side of your house through which it would be easy for an intruder to enter/escape? If so, a camera system would work well. Or, perhaps you live in a rural area where street lighting is not all that common, so you need a motion-detecting light.
Next, take a look at some home security companies and their systems. Or, if you’re opting for a DIY home security system, be sure to read the specifications for individual elements. Consider factors such as:
- The size of your property
- Whether you need to monitor indoors, outdoors or both
- Which windows and doors will need alarms
- The type of cameras you will use
- The field of view the cameras provide
- Whether the cameras have night vision
- The optimum placement of the cameras
- How you will protect the system from tampering
- If you require any additional features such as facial recognition
Choosing an Affordable and Reliable System
Investing in a security system is one of the best steps you can take to ensure peace of mind and protect your property from theft or vandalism. However, be sure to look for a system that offers the features you need at a price that fits your budget.
Cost-saving Measures
Look for home security systems with fewer elements that offer a variety of features, such as cameras with motion sensors and built-in lights. This will ensure you get the most bang for your buck. Also, it’s worth finding out whether the system is controlled via a central hub or app to make sure accessing its data won’t be a hassle.
Hidden Fees
Additionally, look into the installation process, checking for any hidden fees or additional costs, as well as the company's customer service and warranty policy. Of course, a DIY security system will likely be far cheaper than paying a company, but make sure you’ve covered every possible scenario.
Research and Reviews
Finally, it’s important to research the reputation of different home security companies when considering which system to install in your house. Take the time to read customer/expert reviews, speak with neighbors and other family members who have had systems installed, and ask questions of the security firm’s representative. This way, you can be sure you’re getting a dependable system for your home.
Setting Up and Maintaining the System
Setting up a DIY home security system may seem daunting. But, it's actually relatively straightforward. If you have a basic understanding of how home security works, you can easily install a system yourself or hire a professional to help.
Once your system is set up, you should make sure to stay on top of maintenance and testing to ensure it’s working properly. This includes:
- Inspecting camera lenses
- Checking motion sensors
- Testing alarm systems
- Monitoring battery levels
- Verifying network connection
- Confirming backups and storage space
- Updating software and hardware when necessary
Regular maintenance and testing will go a long way in helping you achieve maximum protection and peace of mind.
Next, it’s important to remember that, to ensure the security of your home and family, a quick response to any security alerts should be implemented.
An advantage of partnering with a security company is that they will come and install your security system for you, running tests to make sure everything is in order. They will be notified by your cameras and sensors if something happens, and can alert the appropriate authorities. They will also know when one element of your system isn’t functioning as it should, and can send someone to make repairs.
Home Security Tips
Your security system will go a long way in ensuring your home is secure. But, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t abide by home-security best practices too.
For example:
- Make sure all doors and windows are securely locked when you leave your home.
- Make sure your alarm is activated.
- Inform your neighbors or family members if you’ll be away for a while.
- Store spare keys with trusted individuals and not around your property.
- Keep your garden and driveway clean to minimize blind spots.
- Secure valuables in a safe or other secure place.
- Periodically check your locks.
- Stay informed about local security news.
By having a properly calibrated security system in place, you can be sure that your house is always protected. However, even with the new technology available, it’s important to remain vigilant. Always keep an eye out for suspicious activity and report it to the authorities if necessary. Home security is a collaborative effort. By being aware of your surroundings and reporting any incidents, you can help ensure everyone's safety.
Conclusion
Choosing the best home security system is a crucial step in safeguarding your home, possessions, and loved ones. However, you also need to choose the best security system for your budget.
Identifying your home security needs is crucial for tailoring your system. Consider factors such as property size, indoor and outdoor monitoring requirements, alarm placements, and camera specifications.
Remember, setting up and maintaining your DIY home security system involves regular inspections and testing. Plus, it never hurts to follow the tried and tested best practices for home security.
Whether you install a DIY system or partner with a professional security company, the goal is to create the best defense against potential threats, providing you with peace of mind and a safe home.
For more DIY tips and tricks, DIYwithHelp have got you covered…
If you need some professional guidance for your project, be sure to sign up for a free account with DIYwithHelp.com. Once you have an account, you can search our site (or fill out a project request form) and connect with expert tradespeople who are willing to lend their advice over scheduled video-calls.
