Security systems are integral in today’s residential and commercial establishments. With the United States having among the most burglaries and break-ins globally, there is a continually increasing need for alarms. But to recognize how much an alarm and security system can protect homes and businesses, we should also understand how they work.
What Is a Security System?
A security system comprises several pieces of equipment that safeguard a home or building through an interconnected structure. As its name indicates, the defining feature of security systems is that they “secure” and protect establishments. They act as the first defensive line for residential and commercial buildings against burglars and invaders.
How Does a Security System Work?
A security system and alarm’s work is to keep the people and properties safe from any harm. And harm doesn’t only mean burglary; it also includes fire, calamities, and other unwanted incidents that may happen anytime. Alarms can also help in responding to emergencies like medical situations to avert any potential loss of life.
-
Security Systems Feature Different Devices
A security system comprises several interconnected devices to protect a home or business successfully. Some of the most common apparatus included are:
-
-
Surveillance Cameras
-
Surveillance cameras are among the most popular and primary tools people rely on for their home and business security. Their primary purpose is to monitor activities and movements within the property’s premises. They can also catch and record suspicious behaviors and people from different angles.
Most surveillance cameras record videos continuously for 24 hours a day or until you turn them off. However, more recent and advanced cameras start recording only when they detect motion and send alerts to authorized people. Security cameras categorize as either wired or wireless structures, with the latter using batteries that may need time charging.
Security cameras nowadays also allow easy remote access through computers and gadgets like smartphones and tablets.
-
-
Motion Sensors
-
Motion sensors detect movement by sensing temperature or vibration and then sound off an alarm as a response. While most are highly sensitive to pets or other small actions, some devices require higher heat fluctuations to send an alert. Sensors that require a dual trigger- which makes them less likely to give false alarms- are also available.
Alarm technicians generally place motion sensors in entry points and areas with heavy foot traffic because of their limited range. It is also advisable to install the detectors away from sections that experience abrupt temperature and airflow changes.
-
-
Contact Sensors
-
Contact sensors largely notify your alarm system when someone opens or closes something. They consist of two pieces- one sensor attached to the door or window and a magnet installed on the post or frame. When anyone, especially an intruder, opens the entry point, the sensors alert the system of the movement.
Contact sensors are also excellent for protecting your valuables since they are viable in cabinets or safes. Recent technologies even allowed for integration with other devices, such as thermostats and lighting systems.
-
-
Air Quality Sensors
-
Most alarm and security systems don’t include air quality sensors, but they are as important as the other devices mentioned. These sensors detect smoke, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide, which usually signifies fire or air poisoning threats. It also ensures that the air in your home is safe for you and your family to breathe.
-
-
Keypad and Key Fob
-
These tools- usually placed on the control panel- can arm or disarm your security systems. Keypads– commonly mounted on a wall- require a code for input to control the alarms. They are primarily for better interaction with the alarm system and can work on voice commands depending on the configuration.
Meanwhile, a key fob allows for more comfortable security system controls without the use of a keypad. It acts as a wireless remote control for arming and disarming the alarms- even in the comfort of your bed.
-
-
Central Control Panel
-
The control panel synchronizes the whole alarm and security system to provide better control of all the devices. It manages communication between the sensors, sounds the alarm when activated, and notifies the monitoring company of any security breach. How the central controls work when triggered depends on the programmed security system settings.
It is also where the keypad is, which also means that it gives full contact to the home or building owner. The access includes configurations and turning the alarm system on and off whenever necessary.
-
-
Sirens
-
Sirens may sound basic, but they are widely useful in increasing your security. An alarm siren works by letting out a loud and sharp sound whenever activated by burglars and intruders. With noises of about 80 to 110 decibels, these sirens alert the neighbors and scare the trespassers away.
Some sirens also couple the noise with bright, flashing lights to better alert and attract more attention. They may even draw a response from authorities near or within hearing distance of the siren.
-
-
Glass Break Detector
-
Glass break sensors monitor and detect- through sound or vibrations- shattering or breaking of glasses. These small devices are ideal for houses with pets that trigger motion detection. While motion sensors require turning off when the homeowner’s family is in, glass break detectors can stay on all the time.
Glass break alarms have two main kinds- shock and acoustic sensors. Shock sensors detect breaking by vibrations, though they are prone to false alarms due to slamming doors or windows. On the other hand, acoustic sensors rely on sounds by listening and identifying a shattering glass’ particular frequencies.
-
-
Yard Sign and Stickers
-
Though these items may seem like advertising tools for the alarm company, yard signs and stickers provide so much more. They indicate an active security system in your house or building, which deters most burglary attempts effectively. Most security companies hand yard signs, so they don’t come at a high cost.
All of the sensors available in your security system must be in strategic locations to work more successfully. These areas include doors, windows, hallways, and other high-traffic zones in the building. Once installed correctly, the sensors do their job- monitoring and alerting you or monitoring stations of suspicious movements and other breaches.
-
How Responses to Security Systems Work
When someone or something triggers any of the sensors, the alarm sends a signal to the control panel. This information travels either through radio waves or low voltage wirings. The central hub then communicates the alert to the authorized recipient via a phone or internet connection.
However, the response may depend on whether you signed up for alarm monitoring services or opted for unmonitored alarms. When an intrusion happens in your home or business, the central control panel reacts to it by sending an alert. A central monitoring hub receives the signal if you have a monitored security system, while you will get it if not.
Several Types of Security Systems Provide Better Security
There are various kinds of alarm and security systems based on your home or establishment’s requirements or preferences. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, but they all guarantee your home and business safety. Understanding each one and knowing their features will allow you to identify which one best fits your preferences and performs best for you.
-
Monitored Alarm Offers Reliable and Quick Responses
Security companies nowadays couple their alarm systems with offers of continuous professional monitoring. With professional alarm monitoring services, there is always an eye on your residential or commercial establishment. Here, the alerts regarding any security breach or emergency go to the monitoring center.
When an alert gets into the monitoring center, an employee would call the property owner to verify the situation. If no one answers the call, the central monitoring hub contacts the proper authorities to dispatch any necessary assistance. If the company reaches the owner, they can maintain the communication until after the response team arrives.
-
Local Alarm Systems Are Simple Yet Dependable
Local or unmonitored security systems are mostly available for DIY alarm installations- which have been steadily rising throughout the years. In this kind of scheme, the alert goes to the home or business owner, mostly through text messages or notifications. It is then on the client to dial 911 or any other appropriate emergency response team.
Local security systems are more affordable compared to monitored alarms and provide more flexibility and customization. However, authorities usually treat calls from unmonitored alarms as low-priority emergencies, contrary to monitored systems.
-
Wired Security Systems Are Highly Popular
Wired alarm systems consist of sensors connected to a central control hub and installed all over your building. They may entail detectors, motion sensors, and surveillance cameras hardwired, enabling real-time status identification. It renders the setup more reliable, but slicing a few visible cords can instantly make it inefficient.
Installation of wired alarm systems requires the services of professional contractors to ensure the proper positioning of devices. It makes the price a bit higher, but many alarm companies offer bundles to help you save on costs. Though a wired alarm is one type of security system, it can integrate professional monitoring services like monitored alarms.
-
Wireless Alarm Systems Offer Effortless and Functional Security
A wireless security system’s components are nearly identical to a wired setup, except that wires do not connect them. They communicate the data to the control panel through radio frequencies and, recently, via Wi-Fi. It enables remote monitoring of the security equipment with mobile devices and integrates specific low voltage tools of your residence and office, like lighting fixtures and heating systems.
Wireless security systems provide more manageable and affordable installation, with most clients opting to do it themselves (DIY). Monitoring will also depend on the services that you avail, just like wired alarm systems.
Security Systems Give Various Purposes
Having a reliable alarm system is critical in inhibiting crimes, but it also serves a few more purposes. It effectively prevents emergencies from getting out of hand, especially when monitored by professionals. Here are some of the uses of a security system and how they work to secure you and your property:
-
Avoid Theft and Other Crimes
This purpose is the most obvious one. Almost, if not everyone, opts into security systems to safeguard their lives and properties from crimes. These offenses include robbery, property destruction, home invasions, and others that harm those inside the home or office.
The different sensors in a security system work primarily to prevent all of these burglaries and break-ins. Office buildings can also add access control devices to restrict unauthorized entry to several areas. Recordings from surveillance cameras are reviewable, which can also help in solving cases like theft and misconduct.
-
Prevent Disastrous Fire Emergency
Fires pose the most potential threat when everybody is asleep inside the house or when an office building is empty. An effective alarm system can identify the onset of a fire and prevent further damages and losses. Its components- like heat sensors and smoke detectors– identify rising heat and increased carbon monoxide measurements.
When triggered, the sensors respond accordingly and communicate with you or a monitoring center. This way, it guarantees that the fire service can answer the situation rapidly and efficiently.
-
Respond to Medical Crisis
Many alarm systems trigger with the touch of a button. This feature serves individuals and elders with health issues who may require emergency medical services. Professional monitoring stations can rapidly request immediate assistance, alleviating worries from concerned individuals, especially relatives.
Do Security Systems Work?
The answer to that one is a thunderous YES.
Security systems are useful tools in protecting your properties against burglaries and other crimes that may destroy them. Authorities recognize the role of alarms in deterring break-ins and responding to emergencies. That effectiveness is even higher when you have professional monitoring services to augment your alarm systems.
In residential areas, the presence of mere warning signs led to a decline in thefts and home invasions. While it never fully guarantees the absence of break-ins, a security system ensures timely alerts and proper responses. Its significance lies in the feeling of safety and peace of mind for you and your family.
For businesses, the benefits of efficient security systems are somehow even more important. Aside from money, they also prevent loss of critical business information by preventing unauthorized entry- even among its employees. They also ensure protection from emergencies like fires, floods, and gas leaks.
Get a Peace of Mind With A Reliable Security System
The most important advantage of an alarm system is realizing that your buildings are safe wherever you may be. A fast and adequate response to your emergencies is always available, especially when there is professional monitoring. That sense of security is more precious than the price you spend, minimizing the threat to your home and business.
But to get it all right, it is best to choose only the most reliable security system provider in your area. The perfect alarm system can only perform when partnered with the correct installation. Although you can learn some basic methods for DIY installation, experts understand every part of the system. Guarantee the best security system from an expert alarm company to enjoy a safe and peaceful home and business.