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Home security systems

9 years ago

Hi,

I am looking for a security system. Can someone recommend something reliable yet affordable?

Thanks.

Featured Answer

PRO

Springtime Builders

9 years ago

last modified: 9 years ago

Lots of ways to go here. The simplest and most affordable are motion lights and motion activated alarms. Step up from there, DIY video monitoring and the best would be professionally installed video with monthly monitoring like ADT.. High quality video or pictures are the best chance of deterring criminals or achieving convictions.

We busted this guy breaking into our home under construction with a high quality game camera.

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Comments (9)

abick2
Original Author
9 years ago
What kind of system do you have?
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Might look into network camera's. Most have motion detection and will send an email alert. Some will have audio too, for listening and also two way audio. Outdoors is hard on motion detecting cams because of winds and bushes waving around, and the moving sun and cloud shadows - but they also accept input from other detection methods. You might also look at some of the instant messaging programs that send sms messages & some can also notify you of email subject lines via sms, instantly when you receive an email. I wouldnt be suprised if sms is not already available on some of the newer network cams. I havent played with the newer ones. If you have 3g internet access cell phone,, you can access your home network cam video and audio from the phone! Lots of things you can do with little network cams. Amazing.
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They have some very nice complete systems with wireless cameras that are motion detection cameras and also night vision. Those are the best kind of cameras systems and they can be used with your computer if needed and the images can be sent to any computer on the internet so you can watch what is going on from any location...as long as you have high speed internet. I have one and put one camera down at my entrance to my property to view anyone who might stop at my gate, and it's over 300 feet from the base unit and reception works great. The other cameras I move around my house or porch as needed and they work fine. I also have a seperate sound alarm to alert me when anyone is at my front gate. Good Luck Kt
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In my experience, you don't need to test them frequently. I test mine about every couple of years. My system has electronics that allow my alarm company to monitor it continually for things like low battery backup, etc. Presuming you have a monitoring company, ask them for advice on testing. In any case, remember to warn your neighbors and the company in advance if you are going to set it off. Otherwise you may get a police visit and a fine for a false alarm. Generally, though, if the alarm can be armed and disarmed, it's working correctly. If the alarm horn was tested when it was first installed, you're probably good. Just remember that the backup battery should probably be replaced every 5 years or so, and this is easy to do yourself.
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PRO
Springtime Builders
9 years ago
I have the game camera, when not in use on a construction project, and motion activated lights and alarms that I only turn on when leaving for the weekend. I also live in the city with very close neighbors so this strategy is probably more effective than an isolated lot or property. The DIY video market is exploding right now and have just begun to research those options so I cant really advise on that other than to get the highest picture quality possible.
PRO
Springtime Builders
9 years ago
There are also dummy cameras available that light up when they detect motion. I think this an excellent deterrent.
abick2
Original Author
9 years ago

Thanks.
User
9 years ago
I got a bid from ADT. It seemed high to me, and not really that high tech. They have all kinds of ads for free this and free that but nothing like that in my bid. I hate that!

Right now I am looking at Simplisafe. Customizable and you can get monitoring for about half what ADT and others are charging.
abick2
Original Author
9 years ago
I also priced out ADT and felt that paying around 50/month was too much. I think Simplisafe is 14/month, but there are lots of other companies. Can anyone recommend a company that they've been using and are happy with in the lower price range? thanks.
User
9 years ago
A large black dog from your local high kill shelter makes an excellent security system. And some thorny landscape plantings under the windows. That, and common sense are really what can keep you safe. Most crime is location related. It's unlikely that you built on a teardown site of a former crack house, so your neighborhood is relatively safe.
mrspete
9 years ago
I'm with Sophie. Even if you're not willing to adopt the dog, you can do quite a few things to convince burglars to skip your house.

In contrast, a security system does NOTHING to prevent the break-in from occuring, and neither you nor the police are likely to be quick enough to get home to catch the thieves in the act. Having their picture is great -- if they're dumb enough not to cover their faces, and if you or the police happen to know them.

My plans:
- Solid deadbolt locks
- No pretty little pier glass windows by the front door (so easy to smash, then just reach in and turn the lock)
- Don't over-do exterior doors
- Electronics, etc. not visible from the front door /windows
- Motion-activated lights
- A fence and a dog to deter people from coming to the more-vulnerable back door
- Inside, a safe for valuables

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