Also called ‘The Magic City,’ Miami is a topmost tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and exciting neighborhoods. But the year-round sunshine and distinctly tropical vibe notwithstanding, this picturesque city has one of the country’s highest crime rates. According to a survey, one in 29 residents of Miami will become a victim of either violent or property crime. Security system can give you peace of mind with expert 24/7 monitoring, emergency service alerts, and more.
Some even make your daily living more convenient with smart home automation. It’s, therefore, no surprise that the demand for home security systems keeps increasing, with many brands creating innovative products in this niche. A report by Mintel indicates that 29% of U.S. consumers are interested in owning a smart security system. This compares to 21% who want to own smart speakers, currently one of the most popular categories of innovative home products.
The competitive home security market is good news for homeowners. But with the various available options, how do you choose the best security system?
This guide below explores all you need to know.
What Are the Components of a Home Security System?
To improve your home security in Miami, you must know the basic features you should look out for in your security setup.
A home security system typically includes some or all components that work together to protect your home: entryway sensors, motion sensors, a base station, security cameras, video doorbells, home automation controls, floodlights, panic buttons, glass break sensors, keychain fobs, smart.
In a nutshell, a home security system integrates hardware and monitoring services. You’ll generally pay your home security system provider for the hardware that detects intruders and other threats and the monitoring services that alert authorities when your system detects a threat. The former will be paid once and the latter monthly. However, you can avoid monthly fees entirely by purchasing a self-monitored system.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Home Security System?
What makes a great home security system? Your security system should be tailored to your specific requirements. Different alarms serve different functions, and more isn’t always better. For instance, the best burglar alarm for a high-traffic office building is too complicated and expensive for a simple home, and a storage warehouse requires a different type of security than an industrial plant.
However, the best security system should be equipped with high-end equipment, advanced smart home features, and the ability to deter theft.
Here are some factors to consider when shopping for the best home security system in Miami:
Decide Your Purpose for Installing a System
Do you only need to keep an eye on your entrances? A standard video doorbell for your front door and an outdoor camera to cover the back may be all you need – both are simple to install and monitor. On the other hand, a more robust system might be a better option if you’re looking to secure your home inside and out, with 24/7 monitoring and quick access to emergency response services.
DIY and professional brands offer home security bundles that include most, if not all, of the equipment you’ll need to get started and the option to add single devices as needed.
Check out the three main types of security systems on the market today to choose from, depending on your safety needs:
- Home automation: This is for those looking to link several devices to monitor their security. Home automation systems operate via the internet of things (IoT), integrating with leading tech individually or collectively via your smartphone or smart speaker.
- Intruder protection: Intruder detection and alert systems keep burglars out of your home. They include motion sensors, security alarms, window films, and other devices that make breaking into your home more difficult.
- Environmental monitoring: Environmental monitoring systems can detect nonhuman accidents such as fire and leakage and take appropriate precautions to prevent disaster. This category of home security systems includes sprinklers, smoke detectors, and pipeline monitors.
It’s best to choose a home security system that will include a few components of each type to deliver well-rounded security for your home.
Monitoring and Safety Features
Would you want to oversee all monitoring, or do you want some assistance? Most home security systems allow for self-monitoring, most likely through an app on your phone. A professional system, however, will come with 24/7 monitoring, but depending on the brand, you can add professional monitoring to your DIY system for a fee.
More advanced features, such as facial recognition, detection of broken glass, and communication with emergency services, may only be available from some manufacturers or devices. Consider the level of monitoring you want, who will do it, and the emergency.
Consider Installation Options
Do you want professional installation, or do you want to DIY? Professional installation is typically carried out by knowledgeable security professionals who can guide you through the process and install equipment in places that will maximize protection. However, hiring a professional installer requires you to grant them access to your house and generally pay the installation fee.
For those who want a self-installed package, DIY security systems come pre-programmed, allowing for easy setup. Buying a home security system used to entail having a technician come into your home, punch holes in your walls, and snake wires to each door and window sensor. However, most of today’s systems are wireless and much easier to set up.
Consider the Long-term Costs
A significant factor in your purchase—and the long-term cost of your system—is whether you want professional monitoring. With pro monitoring, a trained dispatcher team monitors your home 24/7 and alerts the authorities if there’s a breach in security.
With self-monitoring, there are no monthly fees. But it also means that missing a smartphone notification can mean the difference between being burglarized and thwarting a potential thief. Many self-monitored systems include professional monitoring, also known as on-demand monitoring. This system allows you to sign up for professional monitoring indefinitely or temporarily, even for as little as one month.
A few DIY security systems necessitate professional monitoring with a multiyear contract, but they are in the minority. Other systems might offer optional multiyear contracts in exchange for lower monthly monitoring fees.
In Conclusion
Your home is a sanctuary– where you feel safe and secure. And that’s why investing in a home security system is crucial. A home security system’s primary goal is to safeguard your property and its people against theft, home invasion, fire, and other environmental catastrophes like burst pipes. Whether you’re away at work or sleeping at night, a security system ensures your house is secure.
