The feeling of safety is paramount to every homeowner, leading many to invest in alarm systems. In this modern era, alarms have become an essential aspect of home security– ensuring peace of mind for homeowners. These systems allow people to detect abnormalities such as burglaries, fires, and floods promptly, preventing potential damage and enhancing security.
Over the past decade, the adoption of home security systems has skyrocketed in Australia. An Australian Institute of Criminology report shows a robust rise in homeowners installing security systems, with an impressive 67% increase recorded from 2005 to 2017. This dramatic hike demonstrates a collective shift in Australians prioritizing safety and opting for advanced technologies to secure their homes.
Undoubtedly, alarm systems have come a long way from merely ringing a loud bell or siren upon sensing intrusion. New-age alarm systems are teeming with innovative features and enhanced functionality, catering to diverse homeowner needs and preferences.
The Intricacies of Alarm Systems
The general concept of an alarm system is straightforward – they detect unusual activities and ring(s) an alarm. Nonetheless, an assortment of different types of security alarm systems is available on the market today. These range from burglar alarms, smart home alarms to fire and safety alarms. Choosing the most suitable system often hinges on individual needs, budget, and the house’s specific features.
Burglar alarms are the most common system, designed to keep intruders at bay. These devices blend with the house’s electrical system and trigger an alarm when they sense trespassing. Smart home alarms, on the other hand, enable homeowners to control and track their alarm systems in real-time, using smart devices. Lastly, fire alarms incorporate heat and smoke detectors and can initiate a siren or contact local authorities when activated.
The functionality of these alarm systems varies greatly, with different models offering a unique blend of features. For many, these cutting-edge features are what define their choice of home alarm system.
Unravelling the Types of Alarm System: A Closer Look
When choosing the right alarm system, homeowners often grapple with numerous dilemmas – monitored vs. unmonitored, wired vs. wireless, loud vs. silent alarms. Each of these types comes with its pros and cons, relying heavily on a particular household’s needs.
Monitored systems provide continuous protection and are linked to a professional security team. They trigger a response from trained security personnel when the alarm is activated. However, they come with a recurring fee. In contrast, unmonitored systems are more like a DIY solution, sounding an alarm to alert the homeowners and their neighbours. They are cheaper in the long run but do not provide the active protection of their monitored counterparts.
In the debate between wired Vs. wireless systems, both have solid arguments. Wired systems are reliable and less prone to interference but can be harder to install. Wireless systems, on the other hand, offer easy installation and integration possibilities at the expense of occasional signal drops.
Lastly, the choice between silent and audible alarms is situational. For instance, loud alarms work well in deterring burglars by drawing attention, while silent alarms are best suited for businesses and locations where a loud alarm could escalate the danger.
Alarm System Essentials: Features To Consider
A modern alarm system flaunts myriad features beyond the simple sound-off when tripped. Today’s systems incorporate technological advancements like motion detectors, glass break detectors, CCTV cameras, and even smart integrations with devices like Alexa or Google Assistant.
A motion detector watches for movement within a designated area, setting off the alarm if it senses any. Glass break detectors, another handy feature, alert the presence of broken glass – often a tell-tale sign of break-ins. CCTV cameras provide a visual feed of your property, stored securely in the cloud or an SD card.
One of the main components of a security system is the control panel, as it connects all the parts of the system. Therefore, it should be easy to use and flexible. The device’s compatibility with mobile apps also allows convenient surveillance and device control from anywhere at any time.
Decoding The Process and Cost of Installation
Installing alarm systems can appear a daunting task for many. In truth, the process’s complexity hinges on the type of system chosen and the house’s layout and size. If a wired system is opted for, one might require a professional to install it, which could drive up the cost. Wireless systems, however, are generally easier to install and could be a DIY project for handy homeowners.
Costs of alarm systems in Australia vary widely, based on factors like the chosen brand, features included, and whether monitoring services are opted for. According to Hipages, an Australian home services marketplace, it can cost anywhere between $600 and $1200 to have a basic alarm system installed.
Alarm System Maintenance and Troubleshooting
To maximize an alarm system’s effectiveness, regular maintenance and troubleshooting are key. Most manufacturers recommend a professional inspection of the system once a year, although the homeowner can carry out essential maintenance tasks.
Common issues to watch out for include low batteries in wireless systems and regular cleaning of detectors. Over time, dust can accumulate on detectors, causing false alarms. Cleaning these devices per the manuals’ instructions can prevent such nuisances.
A Rundown of Top Brands and Models in Australia
Australia boasts a myriad of reliable alarm system brands, each offering unique features. Bosch, Swann, and DSC are some popular names amongst homeowners, thanks to their unwavering reputation for quality and durability.
Each of these brands features diverse models catering to different security needs. For large properties, systems like the Bosch Solution 3000 might be ideal with features designed for comprehensive coverage. In contrast, for a smaller home or apartment, Swann’s Do-it-yourself wireless systems might suffice.
Making the Selection: Things to Conclude before Purchasing
Selecting an alarm system is not a decision to be taken lightly. Factors such as the size of the home, neighbourhood safety, and the presence of kids or elderly should influence the choice. Furthermore, it’s essential to make the most efficient use of installed alarms. For instance, avoid positioning motion sensors near heat sources as it could trigger false alarms.
Conclusion
As homeowners, we all aspire for a secure living. An alarm system not only adds a layer of protection to your home but also can offer peace of mind. Understanding the potential systems and making an informed choice can ensure we enhance our home security appropriately.
