Central Monitoring News

Archive for October, 2013

The Best Home Alarm Systems for Renters

Posted by Central Monitoring Services, Inc. on October 30, 2013

Renters have long operated under the assumption that installation of a security system is impossible in a rented space due to lease restrictions. However, today’s wireless systems offer installation options that feature almost zero impact on a rented home or apartment. Just a few years ago, a lightweight security system would require modifications to the electrical system and lengthy wires strewn all around the residence.

Today, on the other hand, a home security service can install a wireless system where all functions can be handled from a single interface that connects wirelessly to a variety of devices such as cameras, proximity alarms and lamp timers. Alarm systems today don’t even require access to a landline and can be monitored securely through cellular networks. Wireless monitoring also offers enhanced security because it’s impossible to cut a wireless signal and interrupt the security system as might be done with a landline.

More Renters Need Security Systems

With the economy still in a state of slow recovery, renting has become much more popular as Americans work to get back on their feet after a few tough years. According to the National Multi Housing Council (NMHC), there were over a million renters in the state of Georgia in 2012 out of over 9.5 million residents. That’s a large segment of the population with the potential to benefit from advances in wireless security systems.

Economic hardship and uncertainty have also led to rises in crime in many areas of the U.S., which has increased the importance of having a security system installed to protect the family. Although data suggests a recent decrease in overall crime in Albany, burglaries remain common.

Cost-Effective Solutions for Security

A home security service is often able to give homeowners significant discounts because there is the expectation of a contract and several years of uninterrupted service. Apartment dwellers often have much less certainty as far as length of stay is concerned and aren’t always eligible for those deep discounts associated with monitored security systems.

The cost-effective nature of wireless systems offers renters new options for security system installation due to the ease of installing (and uninstalling) a system. Today’s wireless systems may even be packed up and taken to a new residence in the event a renter moves into a new home. Asking a GA security company whether a contract can be taken to a new residence prior to installation is a good idea.

Advanced Features of Today’s Wireless Systems

One of the greatest benefits of today’s security systems is the remote monitoring available through a smartphone or any other Internet-ready device. The ability to connect with a home’s wireless security system means that a parent can disarm or arm the security system from anywhere in the world when a child arrives home from school.

In addition, the benefits of a modern security system reach beyond issues of security since many systems today allow users to adjust the thermostat or turn the lights on or off. Residents who choose to install security cameras can view the video feed through a smart phone or computer as well as receive email or text notifications when a problem occurs.

Investigating GA security options is essential for keeping a family as safe as possible. Fortunately, families who rent a home or apartment no longer need to leave their residence and belongings unprotected.

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Do I Need Glass Break Sensors?

Posted by Central Monitoring Services, Inc. on October 24, 2013

Your home and your business are important investments. Therefore, it is in your best interests to protect them using the most advanced security methods available. Home security services offer a wide variety of ways to detect break-ins at your home or business, and glass break sensors are among the most valuable tools today.

How glass break sensors work

Glass break sensors are specially designed to notice and respond to the exact frequency that is created when glass is broken. Any time a security system is armed, these sensors are active. Therefore, even if an alarm system is currently in the “Stay” mode, doing something like dropping a glass will trigger the alarm. Glass break sensors typically have a range of 20 feet in all directions. However, this can vary slightly based on the manufacturer. The result is that one sensor is capable of monitoring many windows in the same room. This is provided there are not any walls or doors between the window and the sensor.

Who typically needs to use glass break sensors?

Any person who has something worth protecting would be a good candidate to use glass break sensors. One of the most common ways that burglars enter a home or business is by smashing a window. Therefore, any home or business that does not already have security bars on all of the windows would be a good candidate for glass break sensors.

Where do you use glass break sensors?

One of the most important places to install a glass break sensor is in rooms with sliding glass doors, since this will be a probable entry point for intruders. Most home security services also suggest that you have one installed in any part of your home where windows are clustered together, such as a sunroom. You should also consider installing glass break sensors in areas where motion sensors will not be in operation when your alarm system is in “Stay” mode. These vulnerable areas must be accounted for in order to make your home completely secure.

It is not necessary for a glass break sensor to point directly at the window or door it is monitoring. Only a clear line or sight is needed for the sensor to be effective. This will allow the sound waves of the glass breaking to travel directly to the sensor. Since a glass break sensor can cover all the windows and doors in a large area, it eliminates the need to install a sensor on every window and door in your house. This can save you a lot of money.

Fire prevention

When people think of glass break sensors, the first thing they think of is protection from burglary. While this is a popular use for these sensors, they can also be used for other things. For example, glass break sensors are ideal for use in Albany fire protection. When a fire breaks out in a home or business, there is often a great deal of shattered glass. The sound of this glass can allow the fire department to be summoned quickly to the building. With any luck, they will arrive soon enough to put out the fire before any serious damage is done. If you are in need of Albany fire protection, consider the advantages of glass break sensors.

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