Ever encountered the expression “safety is priceless”? This is exactly what home security systems are exemplifying. Our world today is starkly different from the one our parents and grandparents grew up in. Decades past, homeowners seldom fretted about possible break-ins. Fast-forward to now, and news headlines are rife with stories of violence and theft. The reason behind this steady rise in crime rates, whether it’s reality or inflated media coverage, can be left up for debate. Regardless, people are increasingly seeking means of personal protection, resulting in the widespread adoption of home security systems.
Like countless other expenses, maintaining home security systems can raise eyebrows around the question of their true necessity. Despite the costs, however, they often play a vital role in safeguarding the things you value most.
One such system you might be familiar with is ADT, which offers services ranging from $36.99 to $52.99 monthly, excluding installation and equipment costs. To help you determine if investing in a home security system is worth your money, let’s weigh some important pros and cons.
BENEFITS OF HOME SECURITY SYSTEMS
MULTIPLE SENSORS AND FEATURES
Protection against theft is just a slice of what security systems offer. Opting for services like locksmith brooklyn ny, they can cover additional safety aspects. Depending on your particular system, you can opt for additional features such as heat sensors, fire alarms, or carbon monoxide detectors. Modern “smart” systems even provide remote access via smartphone and notify you of any disturbances, ensuring your home, belongings, and loved ones are always safeguarded.
REAL-TIME NOTIFICATIONS
One of the most desirable security system features is immediate notifications when someone enters or exits your property. This is particularly handy for monitoring your children, ensuring that they didn’t leave the house without your knowledge, or preventing intruders from entering unnoticed.
AUTOMATIC POLICE RESPONSE
A triggered alarm always warrants a response. This invariably includes a preliminary check-call, but if the situation escalates and you’re unable to respond, police are dispatched immediately. With this feature, help is always close at hand.
POTENTIAL INSURANCE DISCOUNTS
To promote home security, some insurance companies offer discounts to customers with home security systems installed. The logic is simple; less risk equals lower insurance premiums. Consequently, installing a home security system is one of the first steps recommended by companies like Farmers Insurance to reduce home insurance costs.
COMPREHENSIVE MONITORING
Home security systems can monitor more than just break-ins. With appropriate cameras installed, your system can be utilized to monitor other events in your property such as babysitter’s performance, pet escapades, or even replace a baby monitor given real-time feed access on your smartphone.
DRAWBACKS OF HOME SECURITY SYSTEMS
CODE REMEMBRANCE
The effectiveness of a security system relies heavily on it being armed. If you forget or avoid setting the alarm, its functionality is void. Now, if you perceive this as more of a hassle, this expense might be worth cutting.
PENALTY FOR FALSE ALARMS
Accidentally tripping your own alarm can occur with home security systems. Such false alarms, when they require police response, can lead to charges for misuse of emergency services. If false alarms become chronic, police might hesitate to respond promptly, even in actual emergencies.
As with everything, home security systems have their highs and lows. It’s crucial that you evaluate these factors to make an informed decision on whether investing in such a system aligns with your personal needs, and if the benefits justify the costs.
Do you possess a home security system? Share if you find its offerings worth the investment.
