What Are Your Most Cost-Effective Home Security Options?

Whether you've recently purchased a new home in an unfamiliar part of town or are concerned about safety after a rash of home invasions or burglaries in your area, you may be investigating the types of security systems available. With more and more features and functions hitting the market each year, how can you make the right choice for your family's security in the most cost-effective manner, without compromising safety or paying for features you don't plan to use? When "analysis paralysis" sets in, you could find yourself opting for no home security at all rather than purchasing a system that doesn't meet your needs. Read on to learn more about the factors you'll need to consider in making the best decision.

How do you know what type of security system you need?

There is no single "ideal" security system -- your own situation and goals should dictate the options you should seek. For example, if you're interested in protecting your belongings from theft or damage while you're away from the home, your security needs will be much different than if your main goal is to prevent an armed home invasion from occurring while your family is in the house.

If you live in a residential neighborhood with a flurry of activity, you may not gain much from the use of an exterior security camera -- with so many people and pets to watch, you may find yourself reviewing the video only after a burglary occurs. On the other hand, if your home is in a more rural, isolated location, a wireless security camera installed outside your home that can send a live video feed to any secured device with an internet connection could help you observe trespassers in real time and alert the authorities before the perimeter of your home has ever been breached.

You'll also want to consider the risk of false alarms caused by normal traffic through your home. While a monitored security system that senses anyone entering or exiting through the doors or windows can provide a high level of security, if you have children who are home alone for a few hours after work or an indoor pet who enjoys running laps through the home, you may find that your alarm system is frequently turned off to avoid inadvertent false alarms. You may instead want to look for a "smart" monitoring system that can adjust to normal home activity or be deactivated with any family member's fingerprint or voice.

What options will provide you with the most security at the lowest cost? 

Getting the most bang for your buck from a security system largely depends upon the number of multi-tasking features. Devices that do double (or triple) duty will make your system more efficient and will allow you to purchase a system that meets your needs without paying for multiple features you'll never use.

• Remote home controls

The same wireless connection that allows you to arm or disarm your system and view video feeds from anywhere can also be used to adjust your home's temperature, turn lights off and on, or even open your automatic garage door. By purchasing a "smart home" system, you'll be able to ensure your home's security round the clock while also keeping your utility bills low.

• Monitors that look for more than just burglars

Your family and belongings can be put into danger by more than just burglars, and having sensors that detect heat, cold, and water can help you avoid expensive damage to your home from fire, burst pipes, or outdoor water seepage. While the installation of any security system can decrease your homeowners insurance premium a bit, because these types of systems can minimize your risk of submitting a wider variety of insurance claims, your insurance rates are likely to decrease significantly after installation.

For assistance in finding the best system for your needs, work with a local security company like Digitron Security Systems, Inc.