• Alarm systems FAQ

    Date: 2010.04.06 | Tags:

    If you are looking for a way to keep your family protected and your home safe from harm, there are many alarm systems to choose from that can help you do just that. Below you will find some frequently asked questions regarding alarm systems, their operation, and benefits to having one.

    Do alarm systems protect homes 100% from a burglary?
    Nothing can guarantee that your home will not be a target for an unsuspecting burglar. Fortunately, statistics work in favor of having an alarm system. For instance, homes with alarm systems have less of a chance of a burglary than those homes without one.

    Are alarm systems only for those who own their own homes?
    Absolutely not! Just because someone rents a home instead of owning it, does not mean they don’t have family and valuables they want to protect. Wireless alarm systems are a great way for renters to protect their loved ones and their belongings from the event of a burglary. Having a wireless alarm system installed may also get renters a break on their renter’s insurance policy too.

    Can an alarm system be monitored without a phone line?
    Yes. These is a service called cellular monitoring. Many home security companies offer this service to their customers who want to have alarm monitoring but do not have a phone line installed in their home. Alarm systems with a cellular radio installed have become very popular over the years.

    Do alarm systems work with VoIP home phone service such as Comcast or Vonage?
    There are mixed results with this. Some home security companies have had success making their systems compatible with VoIP phone service. However, many companies will not guarantee that this form of alarm communication will work all the time.

    Don’t take a chance with using VoIP phone service with your alarm system. You are better off getting a cellular radio as a back-up to your VoIP phone service for times that it does fail. It’s simple: Have a cellular radio installed only or stick with a traditional land-line as a form of alarm transmission.

    Do pets cause false alarms?
    Most false alarms that are caused by pets are interior alarms (motion detectors). Have pet immune motion detectors installed if you want to protect the interior of your home, but do not want Fido to trip them every time he roams around the house. Very rarely do pets cause false alarms on perimeter zones such as doors or windows.

    Are there insurance discounts for having an alarm system installed?
    Besides protecting your home and family from harm, having an alarm system installed in your home could save you money on your homeowner’s insurance policy. Many insurers recognize the benefits to having alarm systems installed; therefore, they are offering discounts to their customers who get one. Since every insurer has different policies, it is advised you contact your agent to see if your insurance company offers incentives for homeowners who installed alarm systems in their homes.