Many consumers wait until their homes, businesses, or vehicles are robbed before they consider installing home security systems. Do not fall into that trap. Installing a home security system before trouble ever arises is a much better choice. There are multiple reasons to install security systems besides deterring a potential burglar.
For example, you can save up to 20 percent on your home owner’s insurance when you have an operational home security system. You can also use a modern home security system to check on your children, pets, or house sitters when you are away. Certain modern security systems even have environmental controls that let you turn off lights or adjust heating and cooling remotely for more money savings.
If you have decided to install a new home security system, your next step is to choose the system you want. “What companies offer security systems near me?” is a question you have to answer before you can make a choice. You may have local security system companies available, but national brands often have better reputations, features, and support. Here are 8 top home security systems to make your home safer.
When it comes to home security ADT is one of the most recognizable brands. It was originally known by its full name, American District Telegraph. The Baltimore, Maryland-based company was founded in 1874 when its founder created call boxes to help neighborhoods report crimes to the police. Today, ADT offers some of the most modern security options, including:
- CCTV (Closed Circuit Television/Video Surveillance)
- Alarm Monitoring
- Remote Activation
- Smart Home Control Features Like Environmental Controls
- Security Cameras
- Video Recording and Storage
ADT offers complete home security customization. You can order your own equipment from the company or request a consultation.
In the latter scenario, a security consultant comes to your house, points out areas where security needs improvement, and suggest wireless security cameras or other security equipment to use.
Vivint is a Utah-based home security company. The name comes from the Latin word for “to live” combined with “int,” which stands for “intelligently.” Vivint lives up to its name and has rapidly gained a reputation as one of the top smart home companies in the country.
When you have a Vivint security system installed, it is not limited to cameras for home security. You can use the system to automate many processes within your home.
In fact, the Vivint home security products work in tandem with other smart home devices, such as:
- Amazon Echo
- Nest Thermostat
- Google Home
- Philips Hue
Although it has a reputation as the best home security system with smart home technology, Vivint does have some drawbacks. The biggest is the expense. The system costs approximately $600 to install, depending on the options you choose. You must also pay a monthly monitoring fee. However, financing options are available.
If you want to install home security cameras yourself, SimpliSafe is a great option. SimpliSafe provides DIY home security options. You order the equipment, it gets delivered to your door, and you install it around your property.
SimpliSafe is inexpensive compared to many other home security systems because it does not require professional installation.
You can choose from multiple monthly monitoring subscriptions with SimpliSafe, The upgraded plan allows you to monitor your home security from an app on your phone.
Like SimpliSafe, Cove Security has a reputation for providing excellent equipment for DIY home security installation. The company provides equipment like wireless security cameras to you. It is up to you to install them.
Once installed, you can use the simple touch screen system to control the monitoring devices throughout your home.
You can also send security alerts to Cove via the touch screen. Unlike some other home security systems, Cove does not include an app to allow you to monitor your home yourself.
The system is monitored by Cove Security itself. You must pay a monthly fee for that service. Each monthly plan has different costs and features.
You have probably seen Ring video doorbells. They are widely advertised and featured on many viral videos.
Ring Alarm is a leader in home security cameras. The company also provides smart locks, garage door openers, and other security devices. It also has one of the lowest monthly security monitoring fees. It only costs $10 per month.
You can choose from a wide range of home security cameras with Ring, but you must install them yourself. The company does not offer professional installation services.
Abode is another DIY home security systems service. It provides CCTV and other home monitoring devices. You also receive a hub called a Gateway with a single-home installation.
You can purchase an external keypad for the hub, if you choose. One of the benefits of Abode is it does not require you to agree to a long-term contract for a specific monthly monitoring plan. Therefore, you can change monitoring options whenever you want.
Like Ring, Abode offers inexpensive monthly monitoring options. They range from $6 to approximately $20.
Brinks provides either DIY or professional home security camera and device installation. Professional installation is provided for free, if desired.
The basic Brinks equipment plans start at approximately $200. You must also pay a fairly high monthly fee of $39 for monitoring.
However, that fee also includes automation options for smart devices within your home. Brinks has been in the security industry for many years and has consistently provided excellent customer service.
Xfinity Home by Comcast is an excellent choice if you are already an Xfinity customer. The Xfinity Home security system allows you to combine your home security service with your phone, internet, television, and more.
Xfinity home security packages have a wide range of pricing. What you pay depends on the features you want and the other Xfinity services you have. Expect to pay $360 to $600 for installation and up to $40 a month for monitoring.
As you can see, choosing a home security camera and monitoring system depends on many factors. You must decide which features you want, such as smart security locks or CCTV throughout your property. It is also up to you to determine how much you are willing to pay for service. Once you find a security option that fits your needs and budget, you can rest assured your property is safe at all times.
