Choosing between monitored and unmonitored security systems can be confusing. Home security systems are one of the best ways of enhancing home security. But selecting the right security system according to your preferences, lifestyle and budget can get a bit intimidating. Hence, to have an idea about these security systems we have done a lot of research. Let us dig deep into their two main categories and the differences between them.
What Are Monitored And Unmonitored Security Systems?
A.Monitored Security Systems
The systems that are monitored 24*7 by the home security company are called as monitored security systems. In these types of systems, a team that is surveying your home security is responsible for responding to all kinds of alerts and home emergencies such a break-in or a fire. If something goes wrong in your house, the monitored security system goes off and sends an alert to these teams. If needed, these teams alert emergency services and send them quickly to your help. A few best monitored security systems are:
1. ReoLink Home Security Camera System
2. Ring Alaram 5 piece Security
B. Unmonitored Security Systems
Unmonitored security systems are the primary security systems that generally include a control panel, smoke detectors, motion sensors, door sensors, and sirens. They can generally be monitored through your smartphone, hence being wireless and convenient for you to remotely control them. A few best monitored security systems are:
1. Physon Wireless Door/Window Sensor
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2. Blink Indoor Security
Differences Between Monitored And Unmonitored Security Systems
1. In Terms Of Security
A Monitored Security System Makes You Feel More Secure :
The monitored security system provides the best protection for your home. Since it provides 24*7 surveillance by professionals, there is a quicker response time in case of emergencies.
An Unmonitored Security System Makes You Feel Less Secure :
This is one of the biggest drawbacks of an unmonitored security system is that although its alarms may go out if it senses a threat, there is nothing it can do to stop the danger at all. Since there is no one monitoring the system, the breach cannot be reported unless you call them.
2. In Terms Of Convenience
Monitored Security Systems Are More Convenient
In a monitored security system, you don’t have to worry about the security of your house even when you are not present in your house. The security company will have it all covered whether or not you are in your house. This makes it much more credible than an unmonitored security system.
An Unmonitored Security System Is Less Convenient
Unmonitored security systems have no involvement of professionals, due to which it becomes the responsibility of the owner to act as soon as possible in times of distress and contact the law enforcement on their own.
3. In Terms Of Affordability
A Monitored Security System Is Less Affordable
The biggest disadvantage of a monitored security system is that it can be very expensive. Besides the device fee and the installation fee, you will also have to pay a monthly monitoring fee. This sums up to a huge expense that many of us might not be able to afford.
An Unmonitored Security System Is More Affordable
Since there is no 24*7 professional surveillance involved by your security system company, it may save you a huge amount of money. You will only have to pay for the equipment and you can install it yourself or hire a professional. There are also no ongoing subscription fees, due to which an unmonitored security system is more cost-effective than a monitored security system.
4. In Terms Of Response Time
Monitored Security Systems Have Rapid Response Units
A monitored security system has rapid response units, which means that the reaction time of these security systems is very quick. In any stressful situation, they can assist the members of the house too.
Response Time Depends On The User, And Hence Can Be Less
The response time of the user may create some serious problems for the safety of the house. Although the security systems are connected to your phone, there still might be times when you are unable to monitor it. If you are at work, at a vacation or at a location with no cell reception, you might not be in a position to do anything even if things go wrong.
4. In Terms Of Frequency Of False Alarms
A Monitored Security System Has Lesser False Alarms Than An Unmonitored Security System. Since everything gets surveyed by the professionals, the monitored security system reduces the risk of generating false alarms. If the security system senses any unusual activity, it sends a notification to the monitoring center. They will try to contact the home-owners and if they fail to respond, they dispatch their emergency services.
5. In Terms Of Legalization And Permits
You May Need Permits To Install A Monitored Security System, Whereas There Is No Such Criteria In An Unmonitored Security System. Many cities need you to obtain an alarm permit before getting your security system. In some cases, it can only be a matter of signing a few documents, whereas in other cases they might charge you with an annual fee.
6. In Terms Of Installation
You Can DIY Install An Unmonitored Security System. Unlike monitored security systems that require a professional to install the system for us, Unmonitored Security Systems are very basic and easy to install. These security systems provide static and are run by their users due to which they are easier to operate and utilize.
7. In Terms Of Money
A Monitored Security System Can Get You Insurance Discounts. Many times, your insurance company can provide you discounts on your homeowner’s insurance if you provide a monitored security system in your house. Whereas this is not the case when you install an unmonitored security system in your house. So if you have this system installed in your house or if you are considering installing it, call your insurance agent and discuss the pre-requisite formalities.
Final Talk
The selection of the right kind of security system for your house depends on a number of factors but the most important ones should be the budget and the security preferences. Although a monitored security system is very expensive, it can be considered a worthy investment. you can have a good self-monitored security system under your budget. But if your budget is pretty low, it’s always better to at least have an unmonitored security system instead of having none. Hence, we can conclude by saying that it all comes down to the price you’re ready to pay for the safety and security of your house.
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