Protecting your property and your valuables, not to mention keeping your home’s inhabitants safe, often requires the use of a home security system. Statistics show that homes with alarm systems are three times less likely to face break-ins than unsecured homes. Furthermore, a reliable alarm monitoring company that features the latest technology will allow you peace of mind. You can be confident that your property and loved ones are safe, whether you’re at home or away.
Today many people consider it mandatory to have a good home security system. No matter where you live, there is always the risk of a break-in. A well-designed system can deter the vast majority of burglars, who would prefer to enter a house without any kind of security. To help you choose the best home security system for your needs, we have created this section featuring unbiased reviews of the Best-Selling Home Security Products.
Home Security Product Reviews
The most common benefits of installing a residential alarm system include:
Protecting yourself and your family. In case of an emergency, your security system will alert the fire and police departments immediately. Often, the mere existence of a yard or window sign indicating that a home is protected by an alarm is enough to deter most criminals.
Monitoring the house while you’re away. If you have a caretaker for your children, elderly relative, or otherwise dependent family members, or if there are other people working in your home, they can easily be monitored when you’re not there. You’ll also feel confident leaving your house vacant if you’re away from home for an extended period.
Protecting your valuables inside the home. From media equipment to family heirlooms, most people keep their valued possessions inside their houses.
Securing outdoor items, such as vehicles and other property. A home security system that monitors your yard or the perimeter of your property can help you avoid potential trespassers and thieves.
An added benefit is that having residential alarms can help maintain neighborhood property values, thanks to a shared feeling of security among the neighbors.
When shopping around for your security system, you’ll also want to choose the best alarm monitoring company, a centralized agency that oversees the functioning of home security systems. In many places, an alarm monitoring company is also known as a central station. While a number of companies install and monitor their own alarm systems, in many cases the monitoring services are outsourced to a third party.
To choose the best alarm monitoring company, you could request information from the alarm service itself, noting certain desirable characteristics. For example, look for a company that 1) is certified and licensed, 2) has backup centers, and 3) demonstrates good customer service.
Is the alarm monitoring company certified by Underwriters Laboratories?
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is an independent U.S.-based agency that inspects and certifies various products and services, including alarm-monitoring companies. Upon certification, a company must comply with UL standards to maintain its license, and then the company is subject to annual audits. Once products are UL-certified, they can (and must) bear its mark of identification. In addition to inspections and certifications, UL also provides support services, such as “onsite consultations and education,” to local authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs), alarm contractors, and insurance companies.
Do they have redundant (back up) monitoring centers?
Power outages and technical problems can cause widespread failures or glitches in your individual alarm system. You’ll want to know whether the alarm monitoring company can deal with issues affecting the system and its individual components, such as cameras, motion detectors, computers, and lighting devices.
According to security experts, there are three methods of redundant monitoring: multiple servers, multiple central stations, and multiple types of signals. When choosing a monitoring company, determine which of these redundant methods it utilizes. Some use two, or even all three, levels for maximum efficacy.
Do they offer a cellular backup alarm?
In most cases, a cellular backup dialer is an optional component connected to the alarm system. As people increasingly rely on cell phones as their main phones, however, alarm-monitoring companies tend to use cellular devices as the primary measure in homes with no landline.
How is the company’s customer service department?
Are they available 24 hours a day? Can they provide information about other services that might benefit you, such as medical alert devices? Can they explain any additional costs or fees that you might encounter?
There are many businesses offering security services for your home. Be sure that your alarm monitoring company meets your needs by asking the above questions and getting recommendations from trustworthy sources.
Pinnacle Security
Pinnacle Security – Your home is the one place you always want to feel safe and protected. Your home is like a welcoming oasis that provides shelter from the often harsh realities of the outside world, so you want to be sure it is always secure. If you want to be confident in the fact that your family and possessions are always safe and secure in your home even when you are not there, you might want to consider getting a home security system from Pinnacle Security.
Pinnacle Security uses the latest in technology to protect your home, your family and your possessions from the possibility of theft. Not only that, but a home security system from Pinnacle Security can also protect you and your family in the event of a medical emergency or fire. With a home security from Pinnacle Security, your home and the people who live inside it will always be protected from the possibility of harm.
At Pinnacle Security, they guard each home they protect with three lines of defense. The first line of defense involves sticking stickers on the home’s windows and signs in the yard that warm criminals that the house is protected by Pinnacle Security. If this does not ward off criminals, the second line of defense might. Pinnacle Security’s second line of defense involves sensors on the windows and doors of a home. These sensors can detect an intruder and signal for help before the criminal has a chance to gain access to the house.
Finally, there is the third line of defense which is the sound of an alarm going off. If a criminal sets off the alarm, it will most certainly deter this person from breaking into your home. Before long, the authorities will arrive to make certain that your home and family are safe. With Pinnacle Security’s three lines of defense, your home will be completely protected from unscrupulous criminals.
With a Pinnacle Security system, you can rest easy knowing that your home is protected 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from crime. Not only that, but this high tech security system can protect against fire, carbon monoxide poisoning and it can even help in a medical emergency. When your home is protected by Pinnacle Security, it is truly protected in every way. Even better, it is super affordable so that anyone can have the peace of mind that comes from knowing their home, family and possessions are protected from the possibility of harm.
For the past ten years, Pinnacle Security has been constantly improving on their home security methods so to bring you the latest in high tech home security systems that can protect your home and family from more than just the threat of burglary.
If you want to keep your home, your family and your possessions safe from harm 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at a price almost anyone can afford, you might want to consider having a home security system installed by Pinnacle Security. Pinnacle Security is in the business of providing home owners with the home security they need to be safe and secure anytime day or night. Pinnacle Security use the latest in home security technology to ward off the threat of criminal activity while providing protection in the event of a fire or medical emergency.
When your home is protected by Pinnacle Security, it is truly protected from harm. If you want to ensure the safety of your family and all of your possessions, contact Pinnacle Security and speak with one of their friendly customer service representatives about having a home security system installed in your home.
ADT Home Security
ADT Home Security – Home security is important to any family and ADT is one of the largest and most well known home security companies in the United States and Canada. ADT was originally founded as a telegraph company. In 1890 the invention of the call box allowed customers to send specific signals to a central location requesting emergency assistance. Instead of going out of business as so many companies have done when technology renders its products obsolete, ADT embraced this technology to become one of the first home security companies of its kind.
In the nearly 140 years since its beginning, ADT has stayed on the cutting edge of new technology to provide its customers with the most up to date protection options possible. Today, ADT is the largest and most well known home security company in the United States and Canada.
More than six million residential customers have peace of mind knowing that ADT provides round the clock monitoring. In the case of break in, fire, carbon monoxide, flood and even significant temperature drops, ADT notifies you as well as calling for assistance. ADT’s panic button allows customers to call for help in any situation. Elderly and disabled customers know that with ADT medical alert system, help is only a call away. With the personal alert button and two-way intercom system, there is no need to be near the phone.
Business customers trust ADT to provide a range of business security solutions including not only alarm monitoring, but also video surveillance, electronic access, intercom systems and digital recording and storage. Business owners can even control lighting, temperature and other systems remotely. Half of the nation’s top 50 banks and 80% of the top 45 retailers rely on ADT to protect their businesses.
In addition to protection, ADT offers remote monitoring options allowing both residential and business customers to monitor and control their homes from anywhere. Customers can not only monitor their homes with video surveillance, but can also remotely lock and unlock doors, arm and disarm alarms, and control lighting and temperature, all with the use of an interactive touch screen. Business owners can Office equipment such as printers and coffee makers can even be controlled while away. Someone left the coffee pot on? Left a space heater running? Business owner can log in to check and turn it off, no problem.
ADT is certified by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s SAFETY Act for electronic security services. ADT’s electronic security services also qualify under Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology (QATT) and can be found on the “Approved Products List for Homeland Security.”
Providing both residential and business customers with security, protection, monitoring and remote control options, ADT is not just a home security company. Call today to schedule a free in home consultation and security evaluation to find out how ADT can help protect your home or business. With 180 sales and service offices nationwide, there’s bound to be one near you. Or visit the website’s online security adviser. Either way, you will rest easier knowing your family and your business are protected.
LifeShield Security
LifeShield Security – This article is a review of LifeShield Security. It describes the history, policies, products, and services of this home security company.
LifeShield Security is based in Yardley, Pennsylvania. The company was founded in 2002 by technology innovator Lewis Stilp. He wanted an alternative to the expensive, hard-wired security systems then available. He designed a wireless system that would be less expensive, easy to set up, and difficult to defeat. The company has continued to improve its home security system.
LifeShield Security provides a quality home monitoring service at a significantly lower cost than most other home security companies do. This firm is able to do this because it designs its own monitoring equipment. Thus, homeowners can save money by buying the monitoring equipment directly from the manufacturer. This company protects over 1 million customers and serves all 50 states.
Pros and cons
LifeShield Security provides free equipment and does not charge an activation fee. Users pay a monthly fee that provides a 24/7 monitoring service. The company’s equipment is wireless and does not require holes in doors and windows during installation. Users can install the system themselves in less than an hour. If desired, users can get professional installation from an outside company, such as Protection 1.
This company’s home monitoring service charges less than what most other home security companies charge. The company constantly updates its wireless monitoring equipment to stay on the cutting edge of technology. The company is able to provide customers with superior support because it is intimately familiar with its own equipment and services.
LifeShield Security provides a free app on your cell phone to control your security system. The company also provides online information and support to help customers set up and troubleshoot their home security system.
There is a drawback to manufacturing your own home security devices. This company’s monitoring equipment does not include all the devices offered by other home security companies. Most of the other home security companies purchase their monitoring equipment from large manufacturers. Thus, these other companies are able to offer a wider range of security devices, such as intercom systems, recessed door sensors, garage door sensors, and home automation devices. LifeShield Security only offers a one-year warranty on its equipment.
Products and services
The company’s products use either the Internet or cellular communications. Since users receive the company’s products free, the various packages are priced based on the monthly monitoring fee. These products are assembled into various packages as appropriate for different types of users.
LifeView is a visual monitoring product that provides users access to the video cameras installed in their homes. This access can be provided via the Internet to your computer or by mobile apps for iPhone, Android, and Black Berry devices.
The Home Essential Kit – Value Package is the least expensive security package. This package provides all the basic items needed to protect an average home. It includes free monitoring for fire, carbon monoxide, life safety, and environmental hazards.
The Home Essential Kit – Platinum Package is the most comprehensive security package. This package includes a wireless camera and advanced video monitoring. Users have access to the LifeView service from anywhere in the world.
The Business Package is ideal for small businesses. The basic package is known as the Gold Package. The advanced package, the Platinum Package, provides video options.
A Renter Package is also available from LifeShield Security. Since these wireless security devices do not require any drilling or hard wiring, they usually will not violate any rental agreements or landlord restrictions.
The future
As noted in the above pros and cons topic, the LifeShield Security system has a few drawbacks. However, its low-cost and advanced technology holds promise for a bright future.
SafeMart Home Security
SafeMart Home Security – On the news every evening, there are reports of burglaries, home invasions, floods, fires, and families dying in carbon monoxide-filled homes. A lot of homeowners and business owners have considered installing security systems to protect themselves, their families, and their possessions. The market is flooded with companies trying to sell their security systems.
Even cable and satellite television providers are offering in-home monitoring systems as part of their bundle packages now. Whether the systems they are selling are marketed for the elderly who can summon help at the push of a button or worried parents who can monitor their children via video while sitting at their desk at work, security has become a growing business.
They all claim to be experts in their fields and promise low prices with excellent customer service twenty-four hours a day. SafeMart has an award-winning customer service staff that is professional, friendly, and thoroughly trained to solve any problem that comes their way.
Security systems are not a one-size-fits-all purchase. A business is not going to need the same security system as a home. The business needs an alarm to signal that an intruder is present and fire monitoring which will notify the fire department and the owner should a fire start when the business is empty. A home, on the other hand, may need alarms that signal when an intruder is within a certain distance of the home and have alarms on all the windows and doors.
Parents may want to monitor their children home alone after school to make sure all the rules are being followed and also to assure they are safe. A carbon monoxide detector is recommended for every home, however, a carbon monoxide detector that will call or text the home owners and emergency services is a must-have for every home and business. Other security companies offer in home monitoring and notification services in a one-size-fits-all package. SafeMart allows their customers to choose only the equipment and services they really need. Nothing to large or too small because there is always an online monitoring advisor ready to assist customers so they get the perfect fit.
SafeMart was founded thirty years ago by a young paramedic with a vision for the future. Chris Johnson worked with EMS for ten years before he decided to find a way to protect people’s homes and safety through alarm systems and twenty-four hour a day monitoring. That vision has come to fruition and what began as a small business in St. Mary, Kansas has grown into one of the top security companies in the United States. SafeMart now protects and monitors over 100,000 homes and businesses nationwide. Their list of customers now includes the U.S. State Department and the Department of Justice. You cannot get a better reference than that and SafeMart is still considered young after thirty years in the home security marketplace.
SafeMart stands apart from other security companies in that they do not install their own equipment. The customer shops online at SafeMart for the products they need for their home or business. There is always a Monitoring Export online to help find the items needed. SafeMark offers products manufactured by the leaders of home security such as Honneywell, GE, and Sony. Once purchased, SafeMart will program the system to the customer’s specifications and FedEx the order directly to the customer who then installs the system according to the step by step instructions included. The systems are simple to install so no one needs to feel intimidated by the lack of a contractor coming into the home to hook up the system. Even those with no technical knowledge or experience should have no problems with the installation process. Should there be a problem, however, they have twenty-four hour customer support for any questions the customer has at any time. Their award winning support staff is friendly, respectful, confident, and well trained for any technical problem the customer may have. The staff is there for the customer and is always ready to help no matter what time it is or what the problem is.
Why choose SafeMart over the other home security companies? SafeMart guarantees their service is the best priced in the market and will match a lower price if anyone can find one. Their services exceed those of the many competitors roaming today’s security market. SafeMart has thousands of security options that range from the basic wired alarm system that will signal when an intruder is present and will automatically notify emergency services in case of a break-in or fire. Plus, the alarms and lights can be controlled from anywhere in the world via cell phone and PC. SafeMart is the only alarm company that offers their customers LiveWatch; which allows access and control of the home from anywhere in the world.
With LiveWatch, the home becomes automated and the customer controls the thermostat, lights, and locks from anywhere. The LiveWatch system even signals the owner when a medicine cabinet or liquor cabinet door is opened. The system protects your home, children, and treasures even from the other side of the world. The LiveWatch system also lets the owner control video cameras inside and outside and can stream live video to the iPhone, Android phone, and PC. SafeMart’s LiveWatch is the most innovative interactive home security system on the market today. It puts full control of the system in the customer’s hand while still allowing SafeMart’s trained staff of professionals to do their job and keep an eye on what is important to the customer as well.
SafeMart offers wholly customizable packages that will meet the needs of anyone looking for home or business security and monitoring. With an inventory of over 1,000 products and an online monitoring advisor who will help to find only what you need without pressure to buy it all, SafeMart has earned its place in the top ten best security companies in the United States.
Monitronics Alarm Monitoring
Monitronics Alarm Monitoring – Monitronics has raised the bar within the security industry as one of the largest home security companies in the United States. Recently recognized by Frost & Sullivan, Monitronics was named Alarm Provider of the Year for 2008 and 2010!
Monotronics’ History
Monitronics International has shown responsibility to their local community since its launch in 1994 as one of the country’s fastest-growing home security alarm monitoring companies. They provide commercial and residential services through its network of independent authorized dealers across the country to more than 800,000 consumers; utilizing innovative monitoring technology and alarm equipment from the nation’s top manufacturers, Honeywell and GE.
Monitronics Offers Reliable Home Security
Headquartered in Dallas, Montronics prides itself on delivering uninterrupted, reliable security monitoring services. The company has invested millions to consistently exceed their consumer’s expectations as well as meet all Central Station Alarm Association (CSAA), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and UL standards. Their Central Station serves as the nucleus of their operations.
All of Monotronics’ operators at the Central Station are certified and graded regularly on performance. They are trained to be highly proficient at assisting their clients’ with instructions on how to use their alarm systems as well as taking the appropriate actions during a fire or medical emergency or burglary.
Awarded by the CSAA, Monitronics has been given the industry’s highest recognition for monitoring station excellence – Five Diamond Certification. Very few central stations in the U.S. have the prestige of reaching Five Diamond Certified status- less than 2%! This, in itself, speaks for the company’s dedication when providing alarm system monitoring.
Pros of Using Monotronics Alarm Monitoring
Monotronics breaks its alarm monitoring systems into categories: seniors, single parents and families. Each category slightly varies with its home security monitoring and the combination of security devices utilized to provide protection from medical and fire emergencies as well as burglary. These combinations are only model layouts of what a client may want for their monitoring system. Once assigned to a specific category, they have the flexibility to personalize their home security needs. There are many perks that come from joining the Monotronics family:
Less than 23 seconds response time on average
Lifetime service guarantee
Offers a 97% first-time resolution with service calls
Free basic alarm system and installation in your new home
Considerable savings on homeowners' insurance
Uninterrupted security monitoring services
Access to the largest two-way voice program in the country
Open/close services
UL fire monitoring
Environmental sensors
When customers agree to keep their service and renew their contract for its original term, they’ll receive:
Valued at over $500, the new 3-1-1 system (includes keyfob, one keypad three door/window sensors plus one motion sensor)
Receive 25% off all upgrades
The monthly rate will remain the same
Interactive access and home automation (additional monthly charge)
Two-Way Interactive Voice Verification
Monitronics leads the security industry in two-way, interactive audio voice verification. This essential service is somewhat unique in the world of modern alarm system technology; since many of Monotronics competitors don’t offer it. The system doesn’t operate unless it is initiated or accidentally triggered.
Interactive monitoring allows clients to change and check the status of their system while away from home via Alarm.com, a service also offered by Monotronics that gives clients remote access control over their home’s thermostat, locks, lighting, etc.
Cons
You would think that a company that uses the most advanced central station receiver in the world – the MLR 2000 Virtual Receiver, would offer all of the devices typically found through their competitors; however, since their authorized dealers have different equipment, equipment availability will vary.
Surprisingly, Monotronics does not publish rates for monitoring or installation or give information about the availability of a service plan. Potential customers may also find it a bit frustrating trying to find information about the availability of a service plan before signing up for new service. Monitronics’ website will only redirect a customer to a sales specialist via customer service number, and Monitronics’ corporate office only provides customer support by phone.
In addition, there is no way to request a service call from the Monitronics’ website. When purchasing a Monitronics system, customers will need to contact their local dealer directly to receive assistance using their system, for their account services or to schedule repairs. Also, customers could suffer transmission issues if they opt to ditch their traditional phone line to utilize new VoIP technologies. As of yet, VoIP technology does not have a uniform set of standards.
Products and Services They Offer
Problems caused by burglary tampering, weather conditions, construction, vandalism and other scenarios can disable your telephone line; the standard route used to connect your home alarm system to a monitoring center. In response to these scenarios, Monotronics has offered two alternatives to the traditional landline-based security system: broadband / VOIP security systems and cell phone based security systems.
Cell Phone Home Security Alarm Monitoring
When traditional phone lines and VoIP connection are not available, wireless security systems communications are still possible using a cell unit as the primary connection to Monitronics. They are typically made using Monitronics’ cellular systems and components. as either a backup or primary security with wireless signals sent to their panel.
Summary
Overall, Monitronics provides excellent round-the-clock customer service. Authorized dealers of Monotronics can help customers with concerns as to how to move existing equipment into a new home, switching phone service, referrals, tips on how to care for their alarm system when they’re remodeling, obtaining an alarm permit and more!
Unfortunately, authorized dealers set their own prices and policies. A customer in one city may receive a better deal when purchasing a Monitronics system then another customer purchasing it in a different city. Compared to their higher-rated rivals, Monotronics doesn’t provide direct access to customer service or provide information about repair service plans. Therefore, potential customers should check with their local dealer to ensure they have all of the devices they want and read all of the details of Monotronics’ services before signing up.
Protect America Home Security
Protect America Home Security – Protect America Home Security is a company that was formed in 2001. This security company is based on Round Rock, Texas. This company is famous for providing wireless home security systems that can be installed without the assistance of a home security technician. In addition, this company provides business security systems and home security systems in all 50 states of the United States of America. In fact, Protect America Home Security has almost half of one million different customers nationwide.
This home security company provides services that include cellular monitoring, broadband monitoring and phone line monitoring. In addition, Protect America Home Security offers GE wireless alarm systems.
Protect America Home Security Equipment
Protect America Home Security offers customers wireless alarm equipment. In addition, the GE Simon XT control panel is used. The GE Simon XT control panel is designed to handle 40 different GE alarm sensors at the same time. In addition, this control panel can work with X10 home automation devices. Protect America is a home security company that offers quite a few different types of sensors that men and women can add to their package as well. For example, these sensors include garage door sensors, carbon monoxide detectors, freeze sensors, smoke and heat detectors, flood and water sensors, broken glass detectors, door and window motion detectors and even recessed door sensors. However, these are not the only features that customers can take advantage of when they get an alarm system from Protect America. For example, a wireless secret TouchPad is available. Protect America also offers a TouchScreen keypad, an additional TouchPad keypad, a panic pendant and even keychain remotes.
Protect America Home Security also offers a video camera that can pan and tilt. This camera allows men and women to view their home through their smartphone or by going online. However, such a camera requires the customer to have a high-speed internet connection. This home security company also offers three different home automation devices. Home automation devices give men and women the chance to control various house appliances and even the lights in the home.
Monitoring Options Available from Protect America
Protect America Home Security offers a few different monitoring options with flexible prices that most men and women are able to afford. Available monitoring options from this home security company include cellular monitoring, broadband monitoring and phone line monitoring.
The phone line monitoring option is the most affordable monitoring option from Protect America Home Security. The affordable monthly prices are designed to help customers obtain alarm monitoring services without breaking the bank. In addition, phone line monitoring is the perfect option for men and women who do not have a high-speed connection or have bad cell phone service. Those who obtain the phone line monitoring option from Protect America Home Security can add two-way voice features for a little more money. Phone line monitoring costs around $30.00 a month.
Protect America Home Security calls their broadband monitoring option HomePulse. One of the best things about this option is the fact that it only takes two seconds to send the signal to the monitoring station once the alarm goes off. In addition, this broadband monitoring system features full interactive monitoring with remote access and even online access. The Protect America HomePulse broadband monitoring system does not require a phone line to operate. The monthly price is around $37.00.
The Protect America Home Security company also offers cellular monitoring. This type of monitoring system provides one of the most reliable and safest monitoring methods available. In addition, cellular monitoring does not require an internet connection or phone line in order to operate. Interactive features are available through remote access and online access. In addition, the cellular monitoring system comes with a smartphone application at no cost. This type of monitoring system from Protect America costs around $40.00 a month.
Protect America Home Security Upfront Costs
One of the best things about this home security company is the fact that there are little to no upfront costs when customers want to purchase a home security system. In fact, most systems do not require an upfront cost. Protect America Home Security offers five different equipment packages for customers.
The Protect America copper package provides customers with one motion detector and three door and window sensors.
The Protect America bronze package provides customers with one motion detector and seven door or window sensors.
The Protect America silver package offers one motion detector and ten door and window sensors.
The Protect America gold package provides customers with one motion detector and 12 door and window sensors.
The Protect America platinum package provides customers with one motion detector and 15 door and window sensors.
Protect America Home Security Customer Service
This home security company’s history and background in customer service shows that there are quite a few different customers who have not been able to obtain the customer service that they need after purchasing security systems from Protect America. However, although the past reputation of this company is not the best in the world, it is apparent that Protect America has worked hard in order to make the changes required to provide the best available customer service for customers. In fact, Consumer Digest ranked Protect America Home Security as number one in customer service in this industry. Protect America provides phone support and even online support. In addition, there are many different types of information available on the Protect America website for customers.
Protect America Alarm System Installation
Protect America offers an alarm system for customers that can easily be installed alone. However, any customers who have a hard time with the installation can find online resources that are designed to help. This includes a PDF installation guide and even a tutorial video. In addition, this company provides support technicians with the ability to walk customers through the installation. Most men and women are able to finish Protect America alarm system installation in under an hour. In order to activate the alarm system, customers must call the company after installation.
Protection 1 Security
Protection 1 Security Review – Protection 1’s security is a mixed bag. The security service is overstuffed with options, but still includes essential security innovations like wireless compatibility and even identity theft protection services included in their LifeLock package. Although many consumers would be inclined to favor a security service with too many options rather than too few, it’s important to necessitate the options as useful due to the increase in price they tend to bring alongside them.
Protection 1 is quickly establishing itself in the security market. Today it is widely considered one of the top considers nationwide, and offers an assortment of services including installation services behind its home security systems. The flexibility that its installation branch has given the company is a bug plus in the consumer benefits column, as it has allowed Protection 1 to expand its security provisions to offer wireless monitors that can connect through either broadband connections or the local cellular line, in addition to still retaining an ‘old fashioned’ land line service for those customers who request it. They offer in-house maintenance as well for their ever-increasing variety of services, including single-family services, multifamily services and business services.
However, Protection 1 is not the most transparent security company out there – perhaps for good reason. Although an amount of opaqueness certainly ‘comes with the territory’ for a security company, Protection 1 offers a scant amount of information on any widely available websites or FAQ sections. Further inquiries are encouraged to contact Protection 1 directly, which is something of a hassle in this day and age of easily accessibly industry info.
But the information that is readily available on Protection 1 certainly seems to live up to the industry standards – at first. Protection 1 offers a comprehensive warranty plan for their services, although it turns out that the plan is not quite as comprehensive as any advertisements may like you to think. While in fact the warranty helps customers should their devices return any errors or malfunctions within the warranty period, the warranty only gives customers a discount, and does not promise that their devices will be replaced or repaired without fees. This, unfortunately, is below industry standards for security services, and should be taken into consideration before purchase. Many competing companies offer much more comprehensive lifetime warranties.
The good news on this front is that Protection 1 has a terrific customer service. The company actually ended up doing away with an automated phone attendant after customer complaints and company revaluation, and generally promotes a ‘same-day’ service and reply for any technical or personal problems related to their services. Protection 1 also boasts a ‘Tech Tracker’ feature that puts the responsibility of their technicians under the scrutiny of their customers by allowing customers to track the progress of their technician’s arrival on the scene. This is a commendable innovation between companies and their customers, as the scheduled dates for repairs are too often out of the customer’s ability to time or control, leaving customers at the beckon and call of their technician when their technician should be at their beckon and call instead. Customer service is one of the areas in which Protection 1 comes out with flying colors, although their warranty limitations remain a slight blemish. Accordingly, their customer service is hampered only by the limitations of their own disclosures and warranties.
This service is especially impressive when taking into consideration that Protection 1 is currently the largest provider of monitoring services in the nation, and leads in the market of multifamily security systems. The fact that this surge in business has not dented their commitment to customer service is a point for Protection 1, and has earned than a 1+ rating at the Better Business Bureau, in addition to exemplary customer service ratings on available feedback sites.
The company itself has been in the industry for over a decade, and keeps its securities and personal information safe behind tripe-redundant stations. Protection 1 even houses a disaster recovery center. They provide 24 hour monitoring, cellular and internet monitoring, online account access, 2 way intercoms and available upgrades to include interactive monitoring. Like competitor ADT, their equipment is manufactured by Honeywell. Their services offer serviceable smoke monitors, heat sensors, sensors for both the windows and doors, glass break sensors, security cameras, carbon monoxide detectors, flood protection, motion sensors, freeze sensors, and still more features.
It’s recommended that customers take a frank and realistic look at their security needs before being swayed by Protection 1’s various bells and whistles, as each ‘bell and whistle’ comes with a price tag, adding to the total cost of the security system. Security is serious business, and should be approached for the essentials of the service, rather than the ‘coolness’ or style of the service. Protection 1 advertises customizable service, so feel free to contact a Protection 1 consultant in order to get a free evaluation and a realistic quoted price point. In addition to the aforementioned laundry list of security features, Protection 1 also offers life and fire safety sensors, and comparability with ‘mobile’ security monitoring which interfaces with your cell phone or mobile device.
Protection 1 is therefore a mixed bag of customization. The company certainly advertises this customization as a plus and a benefit, but inexperienced customers may be more lost in the sea of options than they are comforted by it. Many competing security services have fixes prices and steady, reliable services with thorough FAQ sections that can give customers a good idea of their service without the need for calling the company and speaking at length with a representative or consultant. Some businesses trend towards customization, but others recognize that many of their customers are going to need a surer and more steadfast hand in order to introduce them to the industry without the hassle of extensive research, inquiry and consulting.
Despite all of this, Protection 1 remains a good value for such an all-inclusive service. But proceed carefully, clearly and cautiously before committing to an extensively and elaborately optioned service that does more than you need it to. Part of the ‘security’ in security systems comes from the simplicity of the service, for a gaggle of options can cause a user misunderstanding at the worst of times. But if customers are ‘game’ for calling Protection 1 themselves and then holding their own against a consultant for the company, and don’t plan on utilizing the warranty for anything but a reduced price, Protection 1 may be the right choice. Their customer service is a glowing recommendation.
FrontPoint Security
FrontPoint Security Review – Founded in 2007, FrontPoint security has quickly developed into one of the most promising and competent security systems on the market. However, FrontPoint is one of the newer security systems in the field, and that newness demands a certain amount of preliminary ‘catch up’ to inform the uninitiated consumer of what is quite possibly the best security deal available today.
Despite being no more than six years old, FrontPoint earned their security credentials by paying close attention to the advancements in the market and then debuting their own security system with features that exploit the best practices in the modern business while doing away with the least popular downfalls of other companies in the industry. By the time FrontPoint premiered on the market, the modern standard of the home security system had already been set, allowing FrontPoint to imitate the successes while finding ways to innovate in some key areas of failure that had been revealed in competing security services.
FrontPoint offers consumers three different services with easy to understand functions and features: Protection Monitoring, Interactive Monitoring, and Ultimate Monitoring. The scope of their functions includes an even longer list of security services: motion sensors, flood and water sensors, glass break detectors, recessed door sensors, smoke and heat detectors, freeze sensors, panic pendants, keychain remotes to access the security system remotely, TouchPad and TouchScreen compatibility, carbon monoxide detectors, and even garage door sensors. Their security devices utilize camera technology, garage door overheads and loud sirens for homeowners with hearing impairments.
Interactive Monitoring, their most popular service, and has been polished to mainstream perfection and costs marginally more than their standard service. Like all of FrontPoint’s services, Interactive Monitoring provides 24/7 monitoring and redundancy safeguards that utilize broadband service, cell phone lines and even land lines in case of system error. Interactive Monitoring also provides burglar and intrusion monitoring additions. The ability to access the security system remotely, from a location other than the home in which it is installed, is another industry standard FrontPoint has pulled off remarkable well. The less impressive security service companies have compatibility issues with their remote access functions depending on the plan chosen by consumers, but all of FrontPoint’s plans work well with their remote functions and have glowing customer reviews. That’s a big plus.
Customization has become both a boon and a bane on the security industry, and FrontPoint fairs about as well as the competition in this respect. The customizability of security services can be a helpful tool for homeowners to personalize their security to suit their needs, concern and square footage, but too much customization runs the risk of confusing those homeowners without extensive knowledge of modern security protocols. This may result in homeowners paying for more services than they actually require, which is where the ‘bane’ of it all comes into play. Luckily, FrontPoint has some fairly basic upgrades with easy-to-understand functions and set price points to better help consumers calculate the cost.
FrontPoint offers customers the ability to upgrade their security system in order to receive ‘instant alerts’ on their email or mobile device, which is helpful for homeowners who would rather be notified through text as opposed to the standard phone call. Instant alerts can so ‘alert’ homeowners when their spouse comes home, lets the dog out of the house, or when a relative is opening the garage door to park their car. This primarily benefits homeowners who want to be updated on the various ‘going ons’ inside of their house, but may bother the casual homeowner who receives too much unnecessary information.
FrontPoint also offers customers the option of upgrading their security system to allow interfacing with mobile devices that will allow homeowners to manipulate a certain set of appliances within their house remotely. Home automation lighting gives forgetful homeowners the chance to switch off the lights while they are stuck in traffic for work, or shut down compatible appliances like a television set or small cooking device. This upgrade is offered through a mobile app suited for a variety of smartphones, including Android, BlackBerry and the iPhone. In addition to turning off the lights remotely, the home automation lighting upgrade allows homeowners to actually set designated times in which their lights and small appliances should turn on or off.
The last FrontPoint feature worth noting is a deceptively simple innovation in home security. Most security systems are automated with a certain amount of lag time after the alarm gets triggered. This ‘lag’ is an intentional grace period to allow homeowners to disarm their security system on those occasions in which it is accidentally tripped by the homeowners themselves (or an oblivious relative). FrontPoint’s Crash and Smash feature allows homeowners to remove that lag, and immediately send out the appropriate signals to the authorities. This is a useful feature depending on a homeowner’s personal comfort level, as burglars have been known to exploit the lag in security systems to steal whatever object they intend to steal and then bolt before the system can notify authorities.
But there is one aspect of FrontPoint that has been conspicuously absent from this article, and it’s equally one of the most important. At the end of the day, most leading security systems meet industry standards and produce a level of competent devices and functionality. What truly separates the top security systems from one another comes from their customer service, and FrontPoint is no slouch in that area either. Unlike some of its competitors, FrontPoint is as transparent as professionally possible with their security system, seeking to educate their consumers on what they need from a security system before they even put down the money and make their purchase. FrontPoint offers educational videos, eBooks and manuals, and provides customers with accessible phone numbers, live chats, and email addresses they can contact for further inquiries.
Make no mistake: FrontPoint is one of the best security systems on the market today. However, they aren’t perfect. They are a relatively new company, and some homeowners might prefer to work with reputable competitors with a longer history in the field. FrontPoint also offers an industry standard warranty that is perfectly acceptable, but absolutely unremarkable. Their so-called ‘lifetime’ warranty covers the equipment and service for only two years, which is below the higher standards set by other security leaders.
Despite these drawbacks, FrontPoint is a highly recommended security system. They have an easy and modern interface system, a good variety of devices which can be installed into your home, and a carefully designed security system that debuted with uncommon polish. The general consensus among security enthusiasts holds FrontPoint high as one of the best security systems on the market today, and thanks to the company’s upfront and transparent approach to customer service, the uninitiated can explore FrontPoint’s reputation for themselves.