The 4 Most Popular Types of Home Security Systems

Security is not a one-size-fits-all package for homeowners, which is why there are several systems from which to choose. Learn more about four types of home security and how each one can benefit your home.

DIY Security

One of the most practical forms of home security is relying on a person's general common sense and instincts. As a homeowner walks the property, they can see where the shadows pool or if certain windows provide easy access to the home while people are asleep.

Taking simple precautions like putting lights on a timer or investing in motion lights can ensure the home doesn't look deserted. Even putting a sign in front that states the home is protected by a security system (even if it isn't) can be helpful.

Local Solutions

A local alarm isn't connected to any professional organization, like a fire or police department. It's generally a collection of sensors that simply sound off when there's a problem, giving people a chance to spring into action, as the alarm will be powerful enough to alert or wake everyone up. However, if the homeowners aren't there, they have to rely on neighbors to make the emergency calls for them. These alarms are not recommended for homes in remote areas or homes in which owners don't necessarily know their neighbors.

Wired Solutions

A wired alarm system will involve drilling into the home and connecting multiple sensors to organizations like the local police or a private security team. For example, if there is a break in, the alarm will trigger a call to the appropriate people. These systems are often preferred by many homeowners because they are less effort to set up.

However, as one might imagine, all the wiring and drilling increases the overall costs for the system. These alarms tend to be recommended to homeowners who are unlikely to hear if and when a break-in occurs.

Hybrid Systems

Technology companies have made it possible to install smart alarms based on the needs of the property:

• Advantages: This system may not only cost less than a wired alarm, but it may also be more effective as well. Homeowners will also usually install the system, meaning they tend to know it backward and forward by the time they're done setting it up.
• Disadvantages: Hybrid alarms are generally more effort than a wired or even a local alarm. The good news is that tech companies have made a major push for user-friendliness, giving people more reasons than ever to scale their security instead of purchasing a sophisticated system that isn't practical for the property.
• Additional Considerations: These systems tend to offer all-around protection, ensuring that homeowners are alerted to everything from smoke to floods to carbon monoxide detection. This can be a huge comfort for people who are often away from the home.

Having safeguards in place for your home can go a long way. No matter how large or small a property is, there's a system that can be tailor-made for it.