Signs it is Time to Upgrade your Security System
Do you feel confident your home security system is protecting your home and family around the clock? Are you sure your current system has the latest features and upgrades to stop more savvy burglars?
Having a security system is one of the best ways to protect your home from burglary. Studies show that homes with a security system are roughly three times less likely to be burglarized than homes without. There have been a number of exciting enhancements to these systems in recent years. If your system is old, you may be missing out on these improvements. Here are some signs that it’s time to update your security system.
Your Home Has Been Burglarized
If burglars have gotten past your current system, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Work with a security professional to identify the failure points that allowed them to gain access. They can recommend upgrades to address these issues.
You are still using a Phone Line
Communicating alarm signals over a phone line is outdated and not providing the backup coverage you need. These days systems communicate over the Internet and/or via cellular. Having both Internet and cellular communication keeps the system running even if one or the other goes down.
Your Security System is Hard-Wired
Burglars can find and cut the wires on this type of system. And animals like to chew the wires as well! Consider moving to a wireless system. Wireless devices have a 7-10 year battery life, making them almost maintenance free.
Keypads Aren’t Touchscreen
While this doesn’t affect the functionality of the system much, the newer touchscreen devices are more intuitive and easier to use. Some double as a picture frame with rotating pictures on screen. Others have a built-in camera that will take a photo when someone disarms the system. Newer systems may also be portable, more like a tablet. You can keep them on your nightstand or on a kitchen counter instead of on the wall.
It Doesn’t Work Properly
You should test your alarm signals often (at least once a month). Be sure to call and put the system on test before setting off the alarm! If your current system gives false alarms or if it fails to trigger when you test it, it may be time for some upgrades. Also, components may be dirty or damaged which can impact their effectiveness and cause false alarms.
You Can’t Control it Remotely
These days, the smartphone is the hub for almost all activity. This should include your security system. If you don’t have an app on your phone that allows you to access your alarm while away from home, call your security company today to request this upgrade.
It Doesn’t Offer Other Benefits
Modern systems allow you to control lights, thermostats, and lock and unlock doors and windows. This feature comes in handy when a housekeeper, repair person, or dog walker needs access to your home while you are away. Additional features such as these eliminate the need to give out access codes or keys to service personnel.
The Monitoring Company Doesn’t Call Promptly
When the alarm is triggered, the monitoring company should contact you within moments. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always happen like this. Some monitoring companies may take 10 minutes, 30 minutes, or even longer to call the homeowner. In some instances monitoring companies fail to call the homeowner at all. This is entirely unacceptable and dangerous. If this sounds like a familiar scenario, it’s a wise idea to find a new security company.
Cultris Security Systems partners with state-of-the art vendors and can recommend security products to protect your home and family. Call us at 281-506-8466 or visit us online to learn more.
