Secure Home Entry Devices

Secure Home Entry Devices

A home security system can lower your homeowner's insurance by 10 to 20 percent and decrease the likelihood of a burglary. Not only that, but many modern systems include home automation features such as thermostat timers, light switch regulation, and remote door locks that can all be operated from a mobile device. Here are a few things to consider when looking for your ideal home security system.

What Features are Important to You?

Most packages will come with a limited number of door and window sensors that will sound an alarm when triggered. Depending on the size of your home, look into a more robust system that features more sensors. Most companies will list what packages and features are available on their website, so take a look at what they're offering and see what's right for your budget. Home automation features like voice commands and mobile apps are also becoming more accessible and popular, but beware that there is almost always a higher price tag.

Does the System Have 24/7 Monitoring?

There are several home security systems on the market that don't offer 24/7 professional monitoring. These are usually do-it-yourself options that can alert you if a camera senses movement, but won't alert the authorities if you've experienced a break-in. Choose a company that offers 24/7 monitoring so remote certified professionals can contact emergency personnel in the event of a break-in, fire, or carbon monoxide leak. These systems are usually installed by a certified professional but occasionally come as do-it-yourself packages as well.

What are Current or Past Customers Saying?

At Best Company, we do our best to research every company and give you the honest rundown regarding their prices, services, and features. But the very best authorities when it comes to customer service are current and past customers. These are the people that have been on the front lines of doing business with the company you're considering. Take the time to read their reviews and understand their firsthand experiences before you sign on the dotted line.

Here are some top rated security companies you may want to consider.

With an impressive array of free equipment, low monthly fees, zero upfront costs, and a free moving option, Protect America is one of the most affordable home security solutions on the market today. Protect America offers an attractive lifetime warranty on its equipment, a full range of monitoring options, as well as home automation features. However, if you are not interested in signing a two-year contract (which can become expensive if you wish to cancel early), Protect America may not be the best fit. However, consumers may feel more comfortable signing a long-term contract after they read some of the Protect America’s reviews (shown below). These reviews indicate that Protect America beats out most of its competition in terms of value for price and customer service and satisfaction.

Guardian Protection offers a solid home security service, including a home protection guarantee and a free base security system. Depending on the package, service will include more advanced security features beyond the typical door and window sensors.

Founded in 2007, Frontpoint security solutions is a nationwide do-it-yourself security option-with optional professional installation services that can be added for an additional fee. Frontpoint offers three packages ranging from $34.99 to $49.99/month, and all equipment is wireless and monitored through a cellular signal. Customer contracts are typically 12 or 36 months. According to a number of customer reviews, Frontpoint's main competitive advantage is its exceptional customer service. While equipment fees start at $99, they may reach as high as $449 if you chose to upgrade packages. If you're comfortable with DIY installation and paying for equipment upfront, Frontpoint is an excellent security option.

SafeStreets USA offers a wide variety of plan options and doesn't charge for equipment, but the 36-month contract can be problematic for some, not to mention the cancellation policy

Founded in 2006, SimpliSafe is a “do it yourself” home security system company based out of Boston, Massachusetts. SimpliSafe’s goal is to offer affordable, wireless, no-contract home security systems for average individuals.  The security company offers basic security features, including burglar alarms, a panic button to notify police, fire detectors, motion dectors, freeze sensors, flood sensors, and a wireless keypad. SimpliSafe equipment can be ordered online and is customer-owned after purchase. SimpliSafe is unique because its equipment is straightforward to purchase and simple to install. The company provides several Simplisafe packages to choose from. Customers of SimpliSafe get to take advantage some of the most competitive monitoring prices in the industry.If you would like the peace of mind that a home security system provides without having to sign into a lengthy contract, SimpliSafe may be a good option for you. With SimpliSafe, customers receive professional monitoring services for a low monthly fee—$14.99, depending on the monitoring plan. While the month-to-month fees are very affordable, SimpliSafe’s upfront equipment costs, $200 to $500+, can be pricey


Review by Dr. Rob Long, RSN