This is, of course, the benefit most people immediately think of. We likely all know someone who has lost electronics, jewelry, or other high-value items due to a home invasion. The tragedy is compounded when the item is an irreplaceable family heirloom. While using a home safe can help protect irreplaceable items, a home security system has an alarm that can scare off many would-be burglars and can notify the local authorities if someone does attempt a break-in.
A 2009 study by Rutgers found that, as the number of home security systems increased in an area, the number of residential robberies decreased in that area, even for people who didn’t have their own security system. Having a security system not only protects you, but helps deter crime and creates a safer neighborhood for everyone.
3. Allows remote access to your home
Modern security systems now allow you to remotely monitor what’s happening in your home from your phone when you’re not there. Depending on your provider, you can monitor security cameras installed throughout your home, as well as control smart thermostats, smart keyless door locks, smart lighting, and other smart devices in every room of your home.
4. Lowers homeowner’s insurance
Yes, you may be paying a monthly fee for your security system, but having the system in your home can lower your homeowner’s insurance by up to 20%. That, combined with instant access to police and emergency responders, makes an alarm system a pretty good deal.
5. Notifies you of fire or gas problems
You can opt to receive notifications if your smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors go off when you’re away from home. Depending on the provider, you can even set it up so authorities are instantly notified of these emergencies.
6. Helps keep tabs on kids
This is another great aspect of home automation. If you’re at work, you can use your provider’s mobile app to watch what’s happening in your home via video doorbells and other security cameras, so you’ll know who your teens are inviting over when you’re away. If you have electronic door locks, you can even remotely unlock them to let the kids in after school, so they don’t have to worry about carrying (and potentially losing) a key to the house.
7. Improves electricity management
Many security companies, such as Vivint, offer top quality smart home products like smart locks, video doorbells and smart thermostats, as part of their systems.. If you’ve forgotten to change your thermostat before leaving on a trip, these gadgets allow you to control the thermostat on any web-enabled device. Likewise, if you think you left your curling iron plugged in, you can turn it off the outlet right from any of your devices. This works as a great tool to turn lights on and off while you’re on vacation to help give the home the appearance that someone is there.
8. Makes room for peace of mind
The sense of security and comfort you gain with an alarm system is perhaps the greatest benefit of all. Next to being safe, the confidence of feeling safe will help you be a more productive, healthy, and focused person.
Adding a security system to your home gives you an extra layer of defense against any potential intruders. Whether you rent or own, you can enjoy the benefits that come with having a security system. Explore your options by comparing the best home security systems in the country and find the right provider for your security needs and goals.