Home Security System Buying Guide

Home invasion and burglary are unfortunate risks of living in the modern world. But having the right security system can help minimize those risks by alerting you when an intruder tries to enter and sounding an alarm that will often scare them off. The best wireless home security systems can be installed easily without any electrical work. Plus, if you use a Wi-Fi alarm with a cellular backup, the system can operate even during a power outage.

• The best home security systems with cameras are affordable and easy to use. These days you can find a system within a wide range of prices.
• Indoor systems not only provide video evidence for insurance companies and law enforcement in case of a break-in, but you can also use them to monitor pets and children when you can’t be nearby.
• Home security systems with outdoor cameras help you watch over your property while you’re away. Some motion-activated types also alert you when someone is approaching.
• Learn how to choose the best camera home security system with our helpful buying guide.

A smart home security system allows you to check in on your house from a phone or tablet while away on vacation, at work or out enjoying life. You can also integrate some systems with a variety of other smart devices. A combination of a smart doorbell and door lock, for example, would allow you to speak to visitors when you’re not home or even grant a repair technician entry to your home. To learn about your options, see our Smart Home & Security Ideas & DIY Projects listings.

• Water leak detectors sound an alarm during a flood or pipe burst, which can help protect your home against severe structural damage or hazardous mold.
• Some home insurance companies reward homeowners with premium discounts for installing flood detection devices. Check your policy to find out if you qualify.
• If a leak is caused by a burst pipe, you may see a massive increase in your next water bill. Installing leak detectors can prevent an unexpected expense.

• Security systems with motion sensors keep you in the know whenever someone comes near your home.
• Outdoor lights with motion sensors let intruders know that they’re being watched. They’re also convenient when you come home at night with groceries or luggage to carry indoors.

Smart smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors provide superior diagnostics as well as a variety of other helpful features for additional safety. These devices not only sound an alarm if a fire or carbon monoxide threat is detected, but they’ll also send an emergency notification to your smart phone, so you’ll know there’s an emergency if you aren’t home. Some smart alarms also announce the precise location in your home where an issue has occurred.

• Door sensors, which are sometimes called door contact sensors, sound an alarm when an unauthorized person opens a door. These are especially useful if you live in a home with multiple entryways.
• Window sensors work in much the same way as door sensors and alert members of a household when a window is opened or closed. These should be a part of your home security system if you open your windows often to ventilate your home.
• Glass break sensors can be a first line of defense against home invasion, as criminals may assume that breaking a back window is the easiest way to get inside without being detected.