Audio Security

The best audio/video home security system??

Had a break in attempt that left my son's bedroom window cracked with obvious pry bar indenting to the vinyl window casing and another window's screen cut. What's the best security system without using a subscription type carrier?
Thanks for the great information keep.

There are many ways you can go about this. The first thing I should mention is wireless security systems are crap. This is my professional opinion based on experiences from almost 20 years in the security alarm industry. Now that I have that aside.

Pretty much every hardwired alarm system on the market operated in the same way on a technical level. The difference lies in the end user operation, keypad esthetics and features of the panel. Personally, I prefer the Paradox EVO line. Full of features and priced comparable to the rest of the market. If you want more advanced home automation features, I would go with HAI Omni.

Now for the most important part... the installation. It is important to choose the right company to install your security alarm system. Choosing a company with poor installation standards can result in false alarms and ongoing troubles. A good rule of thumb is to stay away from the "freebie systems" or the famous "Packaged security systems" All houses are different and the use of packages in alarm system marketing is typically nothing more than a bait and switch tactic or a sign of a company more interested in quantity vs quality.

Ask around your neighbourhood. Things to look at are service response times, service availablilty. Accessability to tech support when you need it and the over all quality of the installation.

As for your not wanting a monitored security system. That is an option with some companies, however the installation will typically cost you more as there is no re-curring revenue through monitoring fee's. Honestly, you might be better of getting a monitored system. If not for the burg, at least for the safety and comfort a monitored smoke detector and/or carbon monoxide detector connected to the system will provide.

I have written a number of articles on home security and related topics. These can be found on my website at http://www.keepsafesystems.ca In addition to Protection101 and False alarm info, there are several articles in the archive which include one on why wireless security systems are garbage.

Good Luck

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