7 Cheap Home Security Systems To Protect Your Home on a Budget
It does not matter where you live or what your home and property look like: security is essential. You will likely spend more on your home than anything else, so protecting it and the possessions inside should be a top priority to you. Even more critical is your own safety and that of your loved ones.
There are some simple things you can do to enhance the security of your house. Locking your doors and windows, keeping lights on, and having a dog are all ways to deter mischievous behavior on and around your property. But even these measures might not be enough to stop intruders from coming into your home — whether or not you are there.
A home security system will enhance the chances of you preventing theft, damage, vandalism, and possible harm to you or your family. While many may prefer to go without to save money, the good news is that you do not even have to put yourself in bad financial shape to purchase a reliable, effective system.
There are plenty of options available that are affordable and likely to fit within most budgets. In fact, there are plenty of cheap home security systems out there that will more than do the trick.
Below we’ll discuss the options for cheap home security systems that will help you secure your home on a budget. We’ve included a variety of options so you can choose which one makes the most sense for your family.
7 Cheap Home Security Systems To Protect Your Home on a Budget
1. Doorbell Cameras
It used to be that a doorbell served one purpose: for a visitor to announce his or her arrival at your door. Today, a doorbell can also act as a two-way communication device and include a camera. You can get all of this for around $200 from companies such as SimpliSafe.
The point of the doorbell camera is to allow you to have a live picture of who is coming onto your doorstep. But you can also watch a video feed to see footage of what has taken place previously. This comes in handy in identifying thieves who take packages from porches.
You can also use the intercom to talk to the person upon arrival; the person can also speak back, letting you know who they are. This is an important element if you are not expecting the individual or do not know the person.
2. Do-it-Yourself Systems
Not all alarm systems require professional installation from a technician. This method can drive up the costs, so it may be helpful to look for DIY options. Companies such as Frontpoint have some intriguing possibilities. The system has a wide range of features, including interior and exterior cameras as well as automation with home systems such as the lighting. Setting up the systems is easy, but customer service agents are available to help walk you through anything that stumps you.
When you set up the system, you will get a variety of pieces of equipment. One of the most convenient is a remote control. You can also purchase sensors to place in doorways and windows. These will trip alarms and alert you when someone has breached these entryways. What’s best about all of this is that you can find security kits from Frontpoint for as little as $99.
3. Professional Monitoring
Home invaders and thieves are usually looking for the right opportunities to break into your home. These occasions usually occur when you are away for the day at work or out of town for an extended period on vacation or business. For these times you can purchase systems that allow someone else to keep an eye on your home and property.
Professional monitoring includes surveillance and alarms. When an unwanted person enters your home, setting off an alarm, an alert will go to a monitoring center, which will contact the police and you about the break-in. These centers also have access to the security footage at your home. An associate can apprise you of suspicious activity or alert the authorities as needed. Companies like ADT will charge around $50 a month to keep a watchful eye on your house 24/7.
4. Smart Security Systems
There was a time when all security systems were hard-wired. Today, there are plenty of digital options. Many of these will do more than set off alarms or provide surveillance. More and more security companies allow you to be in control even when you are not at home. The best of these let you lock doors and windows, turn on and off lights, watch the inside and outside of your home, and more — all from a laptop or smartphone. Imagine being hundreds or even thousands of miles away and being able to keep tabs on the safety and security of your premises.
A smart security system can be compatible with and use digital assistants such as Alexa to work with home automation. With a voice command app, you can be in charge of your home no matter where you are. You can even set timers on when to dim lights and when to unlock doors for when someone in your family arrives home.
5. Environmental Components
As you shop for a new system, you have more to keep in mind than preventing people from getting inside or snooping around the property. Home security also includes guarding against damage that can come from fires or flooding. After all, these types of issues can result in heavy losses and destruction.
Protect America is one example of a home security system that does this for you. The system has smoke and heat sensors to nicely supplement your smoke alarms. As soon as the sensors detect problems, an alarm will sound. This warns you to evacuate the home if you are there. If you are not, the alarm can notify a monitoring company to contact the fire department.
Revisiting Frontpoint, this company has a system with carbon monoxide detectors and water leak sensors. These can keep you and your family members safe while you are at home. They are also valuable when you are not there. The water leak sensor, in particular, can help you identify water-damage potential and prevent small leaks from turning into floods.
6. Money-saving Systems
When you purchase any type of home security system, you know that you are making a financial commitment. Some of these systems will require an upfront payment, while others let you make the payments over time each month. Some require a service contract; others allow you to opt out at any time.
One of the most attractive systems is one that has features to save on your utility bill. Adobe has a system that runs $299. Among its many elements is the ability to control your thermostat. If you are not at home and have forgotten to lower or raise the temperature in the house, you can make the changes with the touch of a button with this system, no matter where you are.
7. Money-back Guarantees
As you research different security systems, make sure you look closely at the fine print. Some companies will offer free replacement of equipment or return your money if you are not satisfied with the results. Cove is a company that will do this, and you have up to 60 days to take advantage of the deal. Other companies, such as Protect America, have a price-match guarantee.
Moral of the Story
It is easy to see that there is no shortage of choices out there when it comes to cheap home security systems and options that will fit with almost any budget. It should also be apparent that you do not have to spend more than you are comfortable with to get the protection you need.
Consider the above options and their benefits. You can have peace of mind that you, your family, and your belongings are safe. And you can stick with your budget at the same time.
Talk about Money Saved and Peace of Mind Earned.
This article is orignally on Savoteur.
