!#8# Home Security System Benefits - What to Know Before You Buy

!±8± Home Security System Benefits - What to Know Before You Buy

Many homeowners are choosing to install a home security system these days. With hard economic times, thieves are getting bolder and home invasions are also rising every year.

Installing a security system can help protect your home and give you reassurance that someone is watching over your family.

There is one main problem however when selecting a home security system. You have countless choices that it's easy to get confused about which system is right for your family. This article will attempt to give you an overview of these options.

First of all you have a few choices when it comes to home security. You can get a professional to install it for you or you can buy a do-it-yourself security system.

There are 2 main types of systems - wired and wireless. A hard-wired system requires more work to install (you have to run wires throughout your home behind the drywall) so it's probably best left to a professional here.

A hard-wired system is less vulnerable to interference than a wireless system and can also be more difficult to disable. Wired systems are usually best in preconstruction homes since they can be built as the home is built.

If you move into a house that already contains a wired security system, you can then decide whether you want to use a security monitoring service or just use the alarm system to alert you to danger.

Wireless systems on the other hand give you more flexibility in terms of where you can put the cameras, motion detectors etc. They can be installed by a professional.

Some homeowners also choose to install a wireless system on their own. If you're handy and are willing to put a bit of work into it, this can be very cost effective. Wireless systems also allow you to build on them and add to them as your security needs increase (for example if you add an addition to your home or want to add a kiddie camera to your pool area).

Another benefit to a wireless system is that often you can take it with you if you move. On the other hand a hard-wired system is not transportable but it can be a selling asset when you list your home on the market.

When you've decided on the type of system (wired vs wireless, professional vs diy), you can then decide whether you want a monthly monitoring service like ADT or Brinks - or just use a home alarm that lets you know when something goes wrong.

There are benefits and drawbacks to each and it is dependent on what level of protection you want. A monitoring service gives you an extra level of protection - but it's also a monthly cost.

One benefit that many people don't know about having a home security system is that it can save you money on your home insurance. In fact it can almost pay for itself, depending on what kind of home insurance policy you have.

Regardless of what you decide to do, realize that you have a lot of options. Take your time to educate yourself on what makes a quality security system for your home. Don't buy a cheap system that can be easily disabled. This may make you feel good - but burglars will just laugh at it while they walk by with your TV.

When you know what to look for and choose the right protection system for your home, you'll feel and actually truly be protected.