Your family’s safety is paramount – and smart home security helps to assure this. In the UK alone, homes without security systems are up to 300 times more likely to be targeted. Thankfully, modern security kits serve as a strong deterrent to intruders.
When you choose smart home and security installation with a CEDIA member, you get access to the latest tech and the highest standards. Find out more about the best user-friendly smart home devices to keep your property secure.
Smart home security products go beyond Yale locks and burglar alarms. They use home automation to monitor movement, deter intruders and send alerts. The commonest examples include:
Professional monitoring systems can detect movement for peace of mind while you’re away. If an intruder tries to gain unauthorised access, the systems will alert you and the emergency services. You can also add an emergency contact if necessary.
A video doorbell acts as a security camera and messaging system all in one. You can directly interact with any visitor when they come to the door, either through your phone or television. Two-way audio allows for a clear conversation, perfect for deliveries. It’s also possible to record footage, ideal for identifying, or better still, deterring intruders.
Connected locks feature a touch screen key pad for each resident to enter a personalised PIN. Keyless door locks are ideal if you’re out and don’t want to carry keys (for example, runners). Equally, they enable self-monitoring – letting you see who’s home. They can even use geofencing to open automatically when they connect to your smartphone.
A smart alarm system goes beyond standard fire, carbon dioxide or burglary. Homeowners can disarm the alarm remotely from their mobile devices, as well as watch out for certain types of threat. For example, the Simplisafe system can identify fire or intruders and alert the right emergency services.
Video surveillance ranges from doorbells to outdoor security cameras and indoor motion detectors. Indoor security cameras can hook up to a DVR to record activity, with night vision functions available.
A home security camera can integrate with other systems, too. For example, you might choose motion detection functionality with window sensors or trigger smart lighting. These can all deter burglars or gather vital information in the event of a crime.
We can now program indoor sensors to activate only when necessary – not when triggered by homeowners or pets. Some even extend to window contact, detecting breakages and alerting residents.
Outdoor motion sensors are ideally placed on front and back doors, as well as garages. You may even consider perimeter protection which is triggered by a passive infrared sensor (PIR). Customise yours to send intruders away – some can even mimic a dog’s bark!
With a starter kit and a simple WiFi connection, you can protect your loved ones and assets. Key benefits of smart home security include:
Depending on the system you choose, there may be a one-off or a monthly fee for your smart home security. Systems such as Ring Alarm start at around $281.99 for the kit alone, but you also need to consider installation fees.
For a full upgrade including integrated devices around the home, you can expect to pay in the region of $6,000 to $20,000. This will depend on your property size, your security needs, and the products you choose. Our qualified installers can guide you on the best tools for your home.
Find out more about smart home security pricing here.
