Which security system is best for my home?

With so many home alarm system options available on the market, it can be difficult to decipher which are the good ones and which are not worth the effort. Each property has a unique layout and design which means there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for every home security system, with systems needing to be customised to provide the best protection for your individual property. The Alltronic Security & Electrical team have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly, so have put together five top tips to ensure the system you chose and install in your home will protect your family and your property when it is needed the most. Get in contact with us if you need some help.

Tip 1 - Go with reputable brands

Investing a few hours into product research before buying a new home alarm system will help decipher the better brands from the less-than-great options. Online reviews provide every potential customer with a snapshot of how a product works, its reliability, and real feedback from users. If you can’t find reviews about a product or manufacturer, good or bad, this may indicate that the company has not been around long enough for product or after-sales service reviews to be published. Look for brands who offer local product support, receive good feedback over the short and long-term, and have lots of information about their products easily available.

Additionally, having a vague idea of what you need from your security set up, eg cameras, motion sensors, which areas need coverage, etc, can help considerably.

We’re not saying all new alarm manufacturers are bad, we simply recommend using caution or seeking a professional opinion. Always remember, if it seems to good (or cheap) to be true, it probably is.

Tip 2 - Get planning help from the experts

Purchasing the very best alarm system components on the market is just the beginning. Knowing where to position the sensors, motion detectors, and surveillance cameras or how to best set up the recording and monitoring systems can be the success or failure of your new home security system.

We’ll always recommend getting your system installed by a security alarm professional but, if this option is not available to you, we suggest consulting a specialist for advice on the most effective security plan and layout for your particular home design before installation. They have designed security systems for many homes just like yours and can instantly spot vulnerable areas or potential entryways an intruder could use, so listen to their suggestions and consider their solutions.

Tip 3 - Reliable alarm monitoring and surveillance recording

No matter how much you plan, there are always going to be times when your neighbours are out and the alarm is triggered. Unfortunately, this leaves the alarm uninvestigated and your home vulnerable to intruders. Experienced thieves can be in and out with your valuables in minutes and without a quality, reliable surveillance recording system or back-to-base alarm monitoring you could be left with no way to identify the offenders.

Professional monitoring is a great option, especially if you are not at home a lot. However, it is not the only way to keep an eye on your home while you’re out. Many systems allow you to view live camera footage from your smartphone, tablet or remote PC providing an instant update of what triggered the alarm, where it was tripped and what's going on at your home. Even security systems fitted with a Cloud storage backup ensure thieves can’t tamper with recording systems and destroy crucial evidence and identification methods contributing an extra level of protection.

Again, this is where speaking to a professional can assist, as well as doing your own research first.

Tip 4 - Get the right camera capabilities for your needs

Always ensure you are purchasing alarm components that actually do what you need them to do. For example, do you have pets? If you do, you'll need motion sensors which are pet-friendly. Do you want to keep an eye on your home in the dark? You'll need infrared security cameras or ones with night vision capabilities. These requirements may be included already or may need to be in addition to what you are currently researching.

Consider purchasing cameras with added functionality such as night vision, low light capabilities or motion-activated recording, which can expand the conditions your system can clearly record in and also cut down on the volume of footage needing to be stored. These options can benefit you in so many ways, you likely won't be able to comprehend them all at the beginning.

Always ensure the field of view of the cameras you purchase is right for the area they are monitoring as, if it's not, you won't achieve the view you are ultimately needing. A security camera with a narrow field of view will capture fine detail throughout a small area - this style could be ideal to position over the front door or in an entryway. A wide field of view allows a much larger area to be monitored but limits the clarity of the image recorded - this type of camera is useful for keeping an eye on gardens, driveways or paths into your property.

Remember, recording clear, quality footage from a range of cameras which monitor all aspects of your property is very important.

Tip 5 - Wired or wireless security

Ensure you assess the wiring and power requirements of the security alarm system you’re interested in, as some need more than others. Many companies offer wireless security component options to reduce the need to run wires all through your home but most of these still require connection to mains power.

There are also battery-powered cameras and detectors for those who are renting or unable to install extra electrical wiring. This option is very convenient and easy to reposition, but you will need to regularly change or recharge the batteries to ensure they remain on.

A few other security system tips and tricks

Because 5 tips aren't quite enough, we thought we would add a few other helpful hints to help you choose.

• Quotes: Get at least two quotes and design ideas from licenced security installers for comparison.
• Price: Don't always be guided by price, as you may pay a bit more for reliable components from reputable brands but the system will last a lot longer, reducing costs in the long term.
• Areas of attention: Note any particular areas which may need extra attention, such as doors or windows in areas obscured by trees and bushes, or a back gate accessed from a quiet alley.

Ultimately, the best alarm system which protects your home and family 24/7 is one that minimises false alarms, covers all aspects and entry points and provides a clear picture of any incidences which do occur. This can mean different setups for different homes and households, so speak to a professional for help if you need help.