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Category: General
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Important Questions to Ask a Home Security Provider
When you’re shopping for a home security system, there’s a lot to consider.
You want to make sure that the company you choose is reputable and has good customer service. You also want to make sure that your equipment will work well with your home, and that you won’t get locked into a contract.
In this article, we’ll go over some questions you should ask when shopping around for home security providers:
Do you offer the latest technology?
A good home security provider will offer the latest technology. The best way to ensure this is by asking your provider questions about their systems and how they keep up with changing technologies. You might ask:
- What are the most recent technologies your company offers?
- How do these new technologies benefit me as a consumer?
- Will my current devices be compatible with the latest products from your company?
Are you a local company?
You may think that this is a silly question, but it’s important for many reasons.
Local companies tend to be more responsive to customer service – if you have an issue with your system and need technical support, they can get to you faster.
A local company will know the local laws and regulations better than someone who has only been in business in their area for a few years. This might not seem important now, but when you are building or remodeling your home, there are some things that could affect the security of your property—such as zoning laws regarding fences or hedges—and if you want everything to be done legally and safely then it pays to hire someone who knows what they’re doing!
A local company will know the local ordinance requirements and changes. In Georgia, many counties and municipalities are hiring companies to administer the false alarm programs. This requires secondary registration – and fines if not in compliance.
What kind of monitoring services do you offer?
The best way to know whether your home security provider can provide the level of monitoring you need is to ask them. Here are some questions to help you get started:
What kind of monitoring services do you offer? In general, there are four different types of monitored services: 24/7 live monitoring (and dispatch) for burglary, 24/7 live monitoring (and dispatch) for fire and carbon monoxide detection, and self-monitoring (you are notified via technology and responsible for contacting emergency services, video monitoring and video self-monitoring (the majority of cameras are self monitored).
How much does it cost?
This varies widely depending on the technology in the home, and whether you are locked into a contract. EMC Security does not have long-term contracts so you are not required to pay off the contract term if you move or circumstances change. Learn more >>
Some provide equipment with no upfront cost, increasing the monthly service cost. These contracts tend to cost more because the cost typically never reduces once the free technology is paid for.
Typical questions that complicate things when you sign a contract are:
- Are my monitoring and equipment fees locked in, or can they increase during my contract term?
- What equipment fees are locked in, and what can increase?
- Will the monitoring fee change?
- What happens to my contract if I cancel it early? Are there early termination fees?
- How long is my contract? When does it end?
Can I control my security system through an online or mobile app?
A mobile app is the best way to control your security system from anywhere. With the mobile app, you can arm and disarm, check status of sensors, check history of alerts and monitor your home from anywhere.
What about customer service?
Can I talk to someone at your company if I have questions or issues with my system?
Will there be a local security technician that can come to my house in an emergency?
Purchasing the system is just the first step. The rest is up to you. Your system should be user-friendly – easy enough to use every day and incorporate into your life. If you have technical issues, EMC Security has a large group of technicians ready to service your system in your home. We also have phone technicians to trouble-shoot over the phone and remotely.
EMC Security recommends researching a company before committing to service. Check Google reviews – does the company have a history of poor customer service after the sale? Ask your neighbors for a recommendation and more.
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What to know if you bought a home with a security system
If you bought a home with a security system, it may be possible to reprogramme it and save money by replacing outdated technology with modern equipment like motion sensors and add equipment that you can be monitored.
You might have already done this when moving into the property; however, if not then it’s worth doing so now. Reprogramming involves making sure that all of your sensors are working and linked up correctly on your network as well as making sure any new additions (such as additional motion detectors) are connected to the network too.
Update the system – modernize. A modern system is likely to have a variety of components that work together to protect your home. You’ll probably have motion sensors, which detect movement in specific areas; cameras, which can be used for surveillance or monitored by an operator; a smartphone app that allows you to arm and disarm the system remotely; and even video doorbells (sometimes called “door viewers”) that let you see who’s at the door from anywhere in the world on your phone or computer.
These components can be added to the existing equipment saving money from purchasing an entire new system.
In many cases, you will be able to use the entry and motion sensors from the original system. If they need replaced though, they are relatively inexpensive. You may also want to update your security system’s hardware to make it more efficient. For example, if the keypad is old and unable to handle newer features, consider replacing it with a new one that does have those capabilities.
Monitoring is the process of having a security company remotely monitor your alarm. If there is an intrusion, they will alert you and/or law enforcement. You can also control the system yourself from your phone, tablet or computer through the app that comes with the system. I highly recommend this option as it is convenient and inexpensive; however, if you do not have a cell phone or internet access but still want monitoring services they do offer landline options as well.
Contact EMC Security for information about affordably using the system components already installed in your home at 770-963-0305.
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Security System vs Security Cameras
Whether you’re thinking about investing in a home security system and are considering an alarm system or a security camera, or you already have one but want to know more about the other option, you need to consider the pros and cons of each type of equipment.
By taking into account these factors, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which type of security device will work best for your needs.
Security cameras have a variety of benefits
Security cameras are an increasingly popular way to monitor your home and keep tabs on your family, pets, and valuables. They’re particularly useful if you’re away from home for extended periods of time as it allows for remote viewing of the camera’s feed. You can also set up motion detection features that will allow the camera to send alerts when it detects movement in its line of sight. This can be especially useful if you want to know if there is someone lurking around outside your house at night without having to be physically present there.
You can also use security cameras to monitor inside your home while you’re away by setting them up with a live feed over WiFi or Internet connection so that other people have access as well (for example: friends and family members who want updates). This may sound like an invasion of privacy but remember that many homeowners already have webcams installed throughout their house anyway! The difference here is those webcams don’t provide any kind of security or safety benefits—they’re just there because they look cool 🙂
on the other hand…
Security alarm systems can be more secure than cameras.
If you’re looking for a more sophisticated security solution, a security alarm system might be the best bet. Security alarms have more sensors than cameras and are thus more difficult to bypass without being detected. Additionally, most home security companies employ professionals who can monitor your home’s alarm system and respond quickly if an intruder triggers it. This means that even if you’re not at home when someone breaks in, it’s unlikely that he or she will have time to do much damage before being caught by the police or private security guards from your HOA or neighborhood watch group.
If money isn’t an issue for you and you prefer a hands-off approach to monitoring your property—for example, if most of the time no one is at home when burglars break in—homeowners may want to consider installing both cameras and motion lights around their homes instead of just one or the other. If there’s no movement detected after 15 minutes (or however long is appropriate based on how often people move around inside), then simply turning off all exterior lighting could deter future attacks as well as alerting anyone passing by that something’s wrong.”
however…
Security cameras can serve different purposes.
When it comes to security cameras, you have a lot of options. Security cameras can be used for many different purposes and in many different locations in your home or business. Some people use security cameras to monitor their homes while they’re away on vacation or out of the office. Other people use them to keep an eye on their kids while they’re at school, or even to watch over their pets while they’re at work or in other parts of the house.
Security systems are also useful for monitoring businesses during business hours, especially if you have employees working there who need constant supervision and attention paid to what’s happening inside your building (and outside).
but…
Alarm systems can be more discreet than security cameras.
If a home security system is an investment, then the cameras are just one piece of it. If you’re setting up your own network of cameras and sensors, you can tuck them away in a corner out of sight. Alarm systems have to be visible in order to function properly.
Alarm systems also cost more than their camera counterparts: they require professional installation and sometimes even monthly fees depending on whether or not they’re wireless or hardwired. Security cameras tend to be cheaper because they can be self-installed with little difficulty; however, even if you hire someone else for the job, alarm systems typically cost more than any other type of home automation device.
There’s something about having an alarm system—even if it’s just for aesthetic purposes—that makes people feel safer in their homes (and there’s plenty of research that supports this).
DIY security systems with wireless components will save you money in installation costs. Wireless security systems are easier to install than wired systems. The first thing that you need to understand is that wireless components can be installed in hard-to-reach places, like over your garage or on the roof of your home. This type of installation doesn’t require a professional technician and will save you money because it does not require additional labor costs or materials like drilling holes into walls and running wires. Wireless components can also be installed without disturbing the existing wiring in your home; this means that there won’t be any mess left behind after installation is complete!
It’s possible to use your smart home security system’s app to control both your lights and thermostat, giving you even more options for savings.
You can use your smart home security system’s app to control both your lights and thermostat, giving you even more options for savings. It’s possible to set the thermostat so it will turn on at a certain time every day, ensuring that things are warm or cool when you get home. You can also program it to keep the house comfortable for when guests come over and want to stay for dinner. And if you have pets, this means they won’t accidentally be left in hot or cold spots of the house!
People need to consider the pros and cons of alarm systems vs security cameras and make an informed decision about their home security needs. When it comes to home security, there are a lot of options. You can have a security system or you can use security cameras.
If you’re not sure which one is right for your needs, keep reading!
An alarm system will alert authorities when someone breaks into your house or business in an attempt to steal from it.
Security cameras provide visual proof that someone was inside your home at a given time—and they might even catch them in action! They are great for catching burglars who break into houses because they don’t want anyone else around while they do their thing. However, they aren’t effective against other kinds of crimes such as vandalism or robbery due to lack of interaction between perpetrator and victim during these acts (like breaking windows).
When deciding what kind of security system is best for your home, you need to take into account the pros and cons of each option.
To discuss your options with an EMC Security specialist, call 770-963-0305 or schedule a call here >>
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What features to look for in home security
When you’re looking for a home security system, it’s important to take into account all of the features that are available. Not all systems offer the same features, so it’s important to compare your options and find one that has everything you need. This will help keep your family safe while also offering peace of mind as you go about your daily routine.
Here are some of the most important features to consider when shopping for home security:
Your home security system will protect your family, pets, home and valuables.
The most important features to look for in a home security system are:
- Security monitoring
- Easy to arm/disarm your system and monitor from anywhere
- Add new users with ease
- Customization options
- Protection for your family, pets, home and valuables
- Professional monitoring
It’s important to choose a monitoring service that has 24/7 professional monitoring. If you have a fire or intrusion, you want someone on the phone right away to dispatch the appropriate authorities and help you get your home back in order.
A reputable company will have a wide selection of ways to communicate with you about your system and alarm signals:
- Phone call notifications
- Text notifications for alarms to help prevent false alarms
- Text and emails for trouble signals such as power outages and low batteries
You should also consider a system with a cellular connection. This is the most reliable type of home security, and it can be used anywhere in the world.
If you have to set up your system remotely or in an area that doesn’t have power, then this is very helpful because it will still work for you regardless of what happens to your home’s electricity or Internet connection.
Life saftey with environmental sensors are one of the best reasons to go with a smart security system. They can be used to detect anything from carbon monoxide to smoke, as well as water leaks and temperature fluctuations.
Some of these sensors send alerts to your phone when there is a problem, so you can take action before it becomes much more serious. For example, if you have a carbon monoxide detector in your home and it detects high levels of CO gas in the air, it will send an alert letting you know that something needs attention (like changing out your heating system).
Video doorbells and cameras are best for monitoring your front door, but they can also be used to monitor other areas of your home.
Video doorbells can be used with other smart home devices to trigger various actions. For example, if you get a notification that someone rang the doorbell while you were away from home, it could automatically turn on lights or play music as a welcoming signal.
Similarly, if your camera detects an intruder in your house while you’re out running errands, it could send a text message to your phone so that you’ll know about it before returning home.
You should also look for smart home capabilities. Smart homes are built to communicate with other devices and systems in the home, like your thermostat or lights. Security companies are catching on that customers want this kind of technology in their security systems too. The result is a more comprehensive system that can monitor your home’s lighting and temperature as well as identify motion, sound and other activity around it.
Home security is a huge responsibility, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right system, you can protect your family and valuables with peace of mind. STake a look at our best home security systems and find one that fits your needs—and budget!
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Home Security Customer Service
If you’re like most shoppers, you tend to focus on product prices and features; customer service is only considered if problems arise. But when considering the protection of your home and family, customer service should be a top consideration.
Below are some things to consider (and what you deserve) from a security company’s customer care:
What is GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE?
When a home security company provides great customer service, it’s evident during the first phone call:
With a Sales Rep:
Sales representatives at the best companies avoid using high-pressure tactics. Instead of launching into sales pitches, they listen to callers’ concerns and attempt to provide helpful information. EMC Security’s sales team do not work on commission; therefore we do not do everything possible to get the sale.
The best full-service security companies provide in-home evaluations at no cost to the customer. This is the best way to customize a security system and extra (like camera and smart-devices) to the customer’s needs and wants. What works in one home, may not be the best device in another.
At the In-home Installation/Activation Appointment:
The technician should be clean and efficient while installing the system.
Many companies do not test pre-existing equipment. Best security companies, like EMC Security test all components even components that existed prior to installation and are part of the system.
The best security technicians do not leave the home without training the occupants to effectively use the system – AND help install and set-up the mobile app if applicable.
After Activation – Once You’re a Customer:
The best home security companies work to save customers money by offering technical support over the phone at no cost. EMC Security has 6-8 support technicians that provide technical service over the phone – saving customers money in service fees.
EMC Security continues to communicate with customers throughout their customer journey. Through monthly system communication testing (every system is tested every month – if we don’t receive a signal, the customer is notified), emails and texts when we received trouble signals such as low battery or power loss, and monthly customer newsletters to keep customers informed of new equipment and ways to enhance their protection.
Unlike many companies that lock customers into lengthy contracts, EMC Security understands that the customer is in charge. With this in mind, every interaction must exceed expectations.
What does POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE look like?
When a security company delivers low-quality customer service, that’s often evident during a potential customer’s first phone call. No one likes high pressure sales. If you get caught, beware that customer service will erode once you’re a customer.
A company with long term contracts by nature provides the worse customer service. Ask yourself, why should they provide good service? That customer can’t get out of the contract without paying it off. Either way, it’s a win FOR THE COMPANY.
Many alarm users in the area have been anxious because a major security company was acquired by a national brand, that does not install, and may not provide technical service for the type of system the original company sold. If the customer has a technical issue with the system, the new company may need to replace it with new equipment – which is quite costly for the customer. Additionally, the new company enrolls the customer into another lengthy contract upon activation. In case you had any questions, this is POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE.
EMC Security has been a no-contract service company since inception in 1998. In fact, our base monitoring rate of $16.95 has not changed in over 23 years.
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Do You Need Glassbreak Sensors?
Glass breaks can be an important addition to your home security system.
Glass breaks are sensors that detect the sound frequency and percussion of glass breaking and send the signal to your home security system to activate the alarm.So why would you need glass break sensors installed as a part of your security system if you already have door and window sensors?Door and window sensors are only effective if the door or window is opened. If an intruder instead decides to break the glass of the window to enter your home, the window sensor won’t trigger the alarm. A glass break sensor will trigger the alarm when it detects the sound and vibration of the glass breaking.
Should you add glass breaks to my security system?
It’s important to remember that glass break sensors are used to enhance the security system you already have in place to make it even more effective.We would suggest glass break sensors for any home that features:
- Large windows
- Sliding glass doors
- Rooms with many windows, such as sun rooms
- Exterior doors with windows or decorative window panes
- Homes with windows that are painted shut
While homes with large windows provide extra sunlight and views, they’re also a potential target for would-be criminals. Glass break sensors can help protect you in the event a criminal tries to enter your home.
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The Best Home Security with Pets in the House
Security technology has gotten so advanced that pet owners don’t need to be too concerned about false alarms much these days.
You can design a security system with everyone in your home in mind, including your pets:
Pet-Friendly Motion Sensors
Nothing is more frustrating than leaving your house and arming your security system, only for your pet to set off the motion sensors. That’s why, if you have pets, it’s crucial to get a home security system with pet-friendly motion sensors. This way, your pet can roam freely through the house without triggering your alarm.
Security Cameras
Any camera can help you to monitor your pets, but who has time to watch a live stream all day? Make sure that the security system you choose has cameras with the mobile app so you can receive customized alerts regarding your pet. Wi-Fi cameras are great for this because you can move them around your home as needed. One time we left to go on vacation and placed the indoor camera right by our cat’s bed. We got to see him and talk to him any time we wanted.
24/7 Monitoring with Pets
If you have an EMC Security monitored system, you can add the details of your pets to your account. By doing so, you’re allowing emergency responders to automatically receive information about your pets’ presence when they respond to an alert about your home. This information makes a pet rescue that much more possible.
This is particularly important for fire monitoring. You want the responders to know where the pets are so they can get them to safety immediately upon entering a burning building.
Smart Door Lock
A smart door lock is a fantastic product for those who have a dog walker come to their house while away. Giving your dog walker a key to your home or leaving a key under the doormat is risky. The EMC Security Smart Door Lock allows you to create a unique code for your dog walker to use when they need to enter. You’ll receive alerts whenever they come and go.
DIY Installation
Have a pet that is anxious around strangers? When a professional installer comes into your home, your pet may get upset, so a home security system with DIY installation may be your best bet. With DIY installation, the equipment is easy to set up and does not require drilling. In fact, no tools are needed at all. Plus, you save money with a self-install system from EMC Security.
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Too Many False Alarms? We Can Help
There are many reasons why security system users have false alarms. For instance, a large proportion can be blamed on homeowners forgetting to disarm the system prior to letting the dog out or empty the trash. Another aspect could be entering the wrong passcode.
Some municipalities in Georgia have cracked down on false alarms, with fees. EMC Security has implemented EMC Text-Alert, a text notification service that gives you the opportunity to chat with your emergency contacts when your alarm is triggered and respond appropriately from your phone. We’ve seen a significant reduction in false alarms when customer use Text-Alert. IT’S FREE! Sign up here >>
More ways to reduce false alarms:
Before you activate your system:
- Lock all protected doors and windows.
- Educate family members on
alarm system and usage. - Contact EMC Security if you have any concerns about the proper
functionality your system. - Notify EMC Security if you plan any renovating or remodeling your home.
- Educate family members on what to do if your alarm is accidentally triggered.
- Use the EMC Text Alert app to chat with your emergency contacts when your alarm is triggered and respond appropriately from your phone.
- First, don’t panic, there is time. Enter your disarm code (carefully) to reset your system. Remember, if there were a burglar, he or she would not know your code. Do not write it on your keypad.
- Call EMC Security at 1-888-745-4733 or wait for us to call you. Give your password — this is different from your disarm code.
Commercial False Alarm Prevention Guide
- Be sure all employees are thoroughly trained before attempting to use the alarm system. Hold monthly training sessions.
- Look for items that can move within the “view” of your motion detectors, causing false alarms fans, heaters, hanging signs, seasonal decorations, balloons, curtains, plants, etc.).
- Confirm that special consideration has been given to the installation of motion detectors in high traffic areas with overhead doors, large exhaust fans or ceiling vents which allow the entry of birds.
- Ensure all doors and windows are secure and locked before arming your system.
- Don’t change pass-codes without advising EMC Security.
- Train new users thoroughly, notifying EMC Security of new users.
- Service and maintain your system (including batteries) regularly before false alarms occur.
- Upgrade old alarm systems to current equipment conforming to Security Industry Association (SIA) false alarm prevention standards, further reducing false alarms.
Every municipality in Georgia has alarm registration requirements. Some have false alarm ordinances as well. Make sure you understand your ordinance and fee guidelines before installing a security system in your home or business.
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Home Security App Protection
One of the most convenient features of modern security systems is the mobile app. Since the app has the ability to arm and disarm your system, view camera video, and control other home functions, it’s important to keep it secure with protection from hackers.
Below are ways to protect your privacy while using a home security app:
- Connect to a trusted Wi-Fi network to keep your home security system information and events private from the public. If you’re not connected to a secure network, there’s a high risk of a stranger using public Wi-Fi to get your private home security information.
- Most security apps allow you to share access with other family members. Consider limiting app access only to those who need it.
- Change your password frequently. If your app allows, use two-factor authentication to log-in two ways to access your account. The extra layer of security helps prevent hackers from accessing your account with only a password and email.
- Keep your mobile app up to date. Anytime your app has an update available make sure to download the latest as soon as possible. App updates often include bug fixes, security and privacy improvements.
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Warning About Alarm Monitoring
Many alarm monitoring companies, including large national companies allow central alarm station operators to work from their homes, apartments or even college housing dorms to monitor customers for life safety events. Seems almost unbelievable, but it is a fact.
A recent article by security industry expert Jeff Zwirn, published in industry trade magazine Security Sales and Integration highlighted a change that was made to an important UL code made during the Covid 19 pandemic. The new UL-827 now allows operators to perform their life safety and property protection dispatch duties from anywhere they have an internet connection. This includes private homes, apartments, or other locations.
Any good central station operation will be backed up for power and will have redundant internet connectivity paths. Operators and their actions will be closely monitored for activity. Visitors, cell phones, TVs are generally not allowed in the facility, due to concerns about security, privacy, and distraction.
Zwirn warns, “Central Stations that have their operators working from their apartments, dormitories, or homes is a choice that is foreseeably dangerous and needlessly puts subscribers at an increased risk of the very things that the alarm system was intended to protect against as reliable and timely emergency dispatch.”
When this UL guideline change was made, EMC Security decided that remote alarm monitoring was not a practice that we would support. Distracted operators, lack of oversight and supervision, risk of a data breach and virtually no redundancies for the operators make the notion of remote monitoring very scary.
EMC Security’s central station operates 3 locations with in-facility alarm response, never compromised by security risks, distractions, or weather. All monitoring center locations are staffed with highly trained and certified response staff, in secured facilities, backed up by multiple generators and multiple communication paths. No alarm monitoring staff works from home. Ever. We do not put our customers at risk by allowing operators to monitor remotely.
We do not put our customers’ safety at risk for the comforts of working from home. We stand by our decision to utilize in-facility monitoring centers because we believe that upholds our dedication to providing the highest level of customer service in a distraction-free, secure environment.
In addition, EMC Security has a redundant monitoring location in a secured facility, on site at our office in Suwanee, backed up by multiple generators and multiple communication paths. Low priority signals (battery, power, etc) are handled from this location, but it is ready to handle all alarm conditions, if necessary. No operator handles any priority, high response life safety and property protection signal from anywhere outside of our facility.
