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Category: General
Security System Upgrade – When and Why is it Important?
Most homeowners experience excitement when installing their first home security system but as time goes on, they tend to overlook the evolution of truth – a security system is not a once-in-a-lifetime investment. In order for home security to be and remain efficient, they need to be upgraded every so often. Nevertheless, some homeowners keep their same security systems for decades and tend to think as long as it functions, there’s no need for a new one. In some ways, you could argue that they have a point, right? As the old adage goes, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. But if there’s anything that life has taught us all it is that change is inevitable, which is why it’s important to consider essential options to raise the efficiency of your home security system by upgrading.
Older security systems are tethered to cameras that rely on outdated technology. For example, the quality and resolution of footage captured by these devices may appear grainy and lack details, especially after zooming in, thereby making it impossible to identify thieves.
Over time, other faults such as malfunctioning motion detectors that trigger false alarms due to errors, become apparent too.
One of the biggest threats for any homeowner with an older security system is that most of them still rely on a landline in order for them to work properly. Savvy burglars can easily disable the entire unity by severing the line, thereby leaving your entire house unprotected. Upgrading to a modern home security system would bring your home security up-to-date and make it independent from the landline by using wireless monitoring via cell towers instead.
In addition to making your home safer, newer security systems provide unparalleled convenience compared to their predecessors. For example, upgrading an older alarm panel board will allow you remote access to your home security system via smartphone. Even small things like keypads can be upgraded to a whole new level. Say goodbye to those plain rubbery buttons and exchange them with new features like fully colored touch screens, date, time, and even weather forecast.
Security System Upgrade with EMC Security
Ready to take the plunge into the latest advances in home security? Contact EMC Security to schedule a visit from one of our technicians or shop our line of smart home security devices by visiting us online.
Don’t Miss These Essential Home Safety Items
Be prepared for any emergency with these must-have items in your home.
Smart-lock
Replace the ordinary deadbolt on your door with a smart lock to access your home using its app to lock, unlock, and create other settings.
Portable first-aid kit
Portable so it’s easy to carry around the house.
Fire safety ladder
Store the ladder in an accessible location, preferably near a window, so you or your family members will be able to quickly and safely escape the house in the event of fire.
Motion activated lights
Smart-lights activate when motion is detected, deterring those who would rather do their bad deeds in the dark. Couple with security cameras for even greater effect.
Fire-proof safe
A safe can keep these possessions from being stolen in the event of a break-in. Keep a portable safe well hidden.
Fire extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is must-have safety essential could save your life. Place it in an easily accessible area so you can quickly and effectively put out a fire.
Fire and Carbon monoxide detectors
Keep your family safe with monitored smoke detectors and CO detectors. Add a monitored smoke detector to your security system for no extra monthly cost with EMC Security.
Security system or cameras
Homes without a security system are 3 times as likely to get broken into. Most burglars surveyed said they’d pass by a home with a visible security camera as well. Security systems are very affordable from just $179 – check out EMC Security’s options here.
How Do Glass Break Sensors Work?
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.
So the question remains:
Should I 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.
Learn more about security system components here.
Why Your Security System Should Use Cellular Communication
Your home security system has three options to communicate with your monitoring service provider, such as EMC Security.
Those options are
landline , Wi-Fi, and cellular. While each connection type will provide you with reliable home security monitoring, there are a few things to consider when deciding which is right for you.In this post we’ll examine the reasons we believe a cellular connection is a great choice for most homes today, especially considering most households don’t have an operational landline as more and more people opt for cell phones.
But first, let’s discuss the differences between each connection:
Landline
Connecting your home security system through your phone line is the most cost-effective option as there’s no equipment to buy and no charge to transmit the alarm other than the monthly monitoring rate. However, if your phone line is cut, there’s no way for the alarm to communicate with the service provider’s central station. In addition, if you opt for the landline connection, there is no way to access the security system using a smartphone, which is a feature most customers are looking for.
Wi-Fi
This type of connection communicates with the monitoring service via an internet connection. The benefit of this type of connection is that there is no transmission cost — as long as you have an internet connection, the service provider will only need to put a module in to allow it to communicate over the internet. There is a cost for the module, but it will also give you the ability to control the security system through a smartphone. It’s important to note that this type of connection relies on your IP connection, so if your internet goes down, the system won’t be able to communicate.
Cellular
A cellular connection communicates with the monitoring service provider via cellular towers and is considered the most secure because there are no lines that can be cut to prevent the system from communicating with the provider. There are equipment costs, however, as you’ll need to purchase a cellular communicator, and the cell carriers will charge a small monthly transmission cost for the cellular communicator. Because the technology will advance over time, you will need to upgrade your cellular communicator from time to time.
Now that you know the difference between each of the connections, let’s discuss three reasons a cellular connection is the best choice for most home:
It’s the Most Secure: Both landline and Wi-Fi communication are susceptible to disruption: landlines can be cut, and Wi-Fi relies on an active internet connection. A cellular connection communicates through cellular towers and is less vulnerable.
Convenient: A cellular connection can be controlled from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet or computer. Perks include real-time alerts and monitoring.
More Control: A cellular connection offers more interactive services, such as
virtual keypad, live video, door lock, lighting and thermostat controls. You can also arm and disarm from your phone and have access tolive-streaming video.If you’re ready to purchase home security but aren’t sure which system is best for you, download our Free Guide to Buying Home Security to learn more about the available options.
Say “No” to Auto-Renewals
Have you ever sign up for a subscription or on-going service and then get surprised by a renewal charge that shows up on your credit card bill weeks later? Have you gotten discouraged when you can’t figure out how to cancel? Or it’s too late to prevent the charges?
It’s called automatic renewal, and the practice is showing up more frequently in consumer contracts for all sorts of services and products. It’s happening everywhere from entertainment subscriptions to gym memberships to home security.
Some people even refer to auto-renewals as “zombie contracts” because they seem to never die. Despite seeing the charges and trying to cancel, you’re always too late and the fees keep repeating themselves.
So, if you’re unwittingly auto-renewed into a new contract with a home security company and want to challenge the agreement — you’re not alone.
Georgia law requires every customer to be notified between 30 and 60 days of the original expiration date of the contract. The notification must clearly state that the contract is renewing. It must also provide clear instructions on how to cancel service if they do not want the contract to automatically renew for any term more than month to month.
Most companies are following state regulations on notification of a contract term in the original agreement. However, fewer are properly following the requirement of notifying customers that their contract is automatically renewing for more than a one-month term.
If you find yourself in this situation, check to see if you’ve received this type of written notification within the required time period. If not, you can dispute the auto-renewal and get out of the renewal without penalty.
Once you’re free from the binds of the agreement, you can resecure your home protection with EMC Security’s no-contract required policy.
Click here to download a full copy of the Georgia Auto-Renewal Law.
3 Ways to Cut Insurance Costs with Security
Many homeowners assume that living in a safe neighborhood eliminates the risk for a burglary, which is not the case. In the unfortunate event that they find their valuables stolen or damaged after a home invasion, homeowners could issue a claim against their home insurance policy — and more often than not, filing a claim results in homeowners seeing a rise in their insurance premiums.
According to the market data, there were more than 3.7 million burglaries in 2003 – 2007, the equivalent of one burglary every 8 seconds, according to alarm.org, run by the Electronic Security Association. For these reasons, homeowners should consider whether installing a home security system is worth the investment, not only to protect their family and
possessions, but also to help possibly lower the cost of insurance.Here are three ways to reduce insurance costs with a security system:
1. Boost Home Safety
Insurers may provide a discount on insurance premiums for homeowners who have a home security system, which can help increase the overall safety of the home. Research performed by alarm.org stated that 90 percent of convicted burglars said they would keep away from homes with home security systems. The assumed decrease in incidents could help insurance companies perceive homeowners as less of a risk, and therefore qualify them for discounts.
2. Lower Costs on Home Policy Premiums
Homeowners could see their insurance premiums decline by up to about 20 percent with the installation of a well-rounded home security system, according to researchers. Not only can having a comprehensive security system help reduce insurance costs
, homeowners can also save money on would-be damages in the event that a burglary would occur without a security system.3. Minimize Risk of Cost Hikes
To steer clear higher insurance premiums, homeowners should carefully review their policies. Home insurance companies may opt to hike insurance policy premiums should a burglary occurs, so it’s a good idea to know what factors could bring about unwanted changes to the cost of your home insurance.
Dog vs Security System
One of the reasons why people think they don’t need or want a security system is because they have a dog.
It’s hard to defend against a beloved dog, especially one that looks like the one in the photo above. But there are many benefits to a security system that you just don’t get with a dog.
Dogs have amazing senses, with their sharp ears and superior scents-ability. Much like a security system, a dog can alert you right away to an intruder on your property. The downside of this is, to your dog, many everyday visitors count as intruders.
A smart home security system does it better. Like a dog, it’s proactive when an intruder is detected—but it’s far better at discerning a genuine intruder from a harmless everyday event, thanks to its use of intelligence from all around the home. Equally important, if there’s a break-in, a security system can alert a 24-7 monitoring station for professional help.
Burglars avoid homes with security systems. In fact, 60% will go elsewhere if they see one. Add a smart security camera and you have a formidable deterrent.
Of course, most burglars don’t want to meet your dog, either. Should they spot dog toys in the yard or hear muffled barking, many will move along.
Deterrence aside, though, there are some things a dog can’t help with. For example, 1/3 of all burglaries are cases of unlawful entry—a burglar entering through an unlocked door or window. With proactive reminders and remote locking, security system powered with home automation can save the day when you’re in a rush and forget to secure the house.
It’s not unknown for a burglar to arrive with food to distract a dog, for example. While a specially trained dog may hold his ground, most dogs will scamper off down the basement stairs after their prize.
Meanwhile, a lawbreaker will need more than a steak to defeat a smart home security system. Even if they take a hammer to your security panel, your security technology can still alert your home’s 24-7 monitoring station.
Want to improve your canine-based home security by installing a smart home security system?
Contact EMC Security today at 770-963-0305 or visit our website.
The EMC Security Difference
The number 1 question people ask is: What makes EMC Security different than other companies?
1. No Contracts!
It should be no surprise that the biggest difference is that we don’t require a monthly service contract. You can cancel anytime for any reason.
You can’t purchase another professionally installed security system without agreeing to at least a 36-month contract. This practice has been the standard for years so the providers can offer low up-front installation and equipment fees. The problem with this is once the equipment costs would be paid off, the high monthly fee (absorbing the equipment costs) does not reduce.
Since our inception in 1998, EMC Security has offered no-contract monitoring service. You pay for your equipment upfront with monitoring and communication charges paid on a month to month basis, with the option to cancel any time. If you need to finance the equipment, we have an interest-free option for that as well.
2. Security Technology
EMC Security sells a variety of security equipment . All the equipment is non-proprietary which means that other companies can reprogram it for their monitoring system. Some well-known, national companies do not sell this type of technology, preferring instead to use their own proprietary equipment, blocking other companies from monitoring the systems. This trend is unfortunately one that locks customers in as well, because the system is worthless if you are not happy with the monitoring service.
3. Takeovers
We can also takeover and monitor pre-existing systems. So, if you have a system in your home, we should be able to reprogramme it, provide any updates or upgrades needed, and start monitoring. This service can save a customer alot of money.
4. Alarm Monitoring
EMC Security’s monitoring cost of $16.95 per month and has not changed since 1999. We believe everyone should be able to afford to be safe at home, so we keep costs low. Most notably though is our Secure Path Technology. No matter what extra features a home security system offers, the bottom line is whether someone is monitoring your home 24/7 and can get help to you fast when you need it most.
EMC Security pioneered a monitoring architecture that sends a signal simultaneously to two, separately staffed, UL listed, CSAA Five-Diamond Certified command centers, which means a highly trained operator will always be available to answer the call. With an average response time of 14 seconds, homeowners have the added peace of mind that comes with rapid response.
Most security providers utilize a single command center that requires rerouting in the event the first center is busy or otherwise disabled, wasting time and creating unnecessary risk.
Additionally, security technology is built with an “alarm signal delay” of at least 45 seconds. EMC Security overrides this delay so the signal is transferred to our monitoring centers immediately. A lot can happen in 45 seconds and we don’t want to take that chance when lives are at stake.
5. Customer Service
Finally, what separates EMC Security from the rest is our ownership and values. Because we are owned by three of the largest non-profit power companies in Georgia, we are able to keep costs down and focus on service.
Like our parent companies, we put customer satisfaction above everything else because we know that happy customers are key to maintaining a successful business. By endorsing highly ethical business practices, both within our organization and across our customer and potential customer base, we send our message as a standard, not as a fallback.
This is very important when the lives of our customers are at stake.
Your Guide to Buying Home Security
Purchasing a security system to protect your home and family can be confusing. There are many options. Every home is different and individual needs vary. It’s not easy to sort through the information to get a clear idea of what you need to get up and running.
This guide can help.
We’ll outline the different ways in which you can purchase home security with EMC Security, depending on your home and what security equipment currently exists, including:
- Starting from scratch with a new security system
- Fine-tuning the current system in your home
- Powering up the current system in your home
STARTING FROM SCRATCH?
OPTION 1: PROFESSIONAL INSTALLED SYSTEM
No security equipment? Do you prefer a professional to install the equipment? Are you considering the addition of home-automation or security cameras?
KICK BACK AND LET EMC SECURITY INSTALL IT FOR YOU
What Do I Need? The type of system and components will depend on the construction of your home, your particular needs (security, fire, cameras, automation, etc.), and lifestyle (children, pets, etc.).
Hard-Wired vs Wireless. A hard-wired system connects all devices to the control panel via wires. Wireless systems connect via radio frequency, using minimum wiring.
Communication Method. You can connect to our monitoring centers via phone line, internet, or cell towers. Cellular is the most reliable since it does not rely on a power source to communicate.
Cameras & Automation. Interactive controls, cameras and home automation can be added to most security systems for a complete smart-security system, controlled from your mobile device.
What’s the Process? Contact us at 770.963.0305 to schedule an in-home evaluation to determine what equipment is needed. Monthly monitoring is $16.95 for phone and Wi-Fi connection, $23.95 for cellular.
In-Home Technician. At this appointment, the system will be installed and tested, interactive services will be applied and the homeowner will be fully trained on system operation.
OPTION 2: DIY SELF-INSTALLED SYSTEM
No security equipment? Do you want the latest, most advanced wireless/portable technology? Do you want to use interactive mobile controls and home-automation? IS THE DO-IT-YOURSELF SECURITY SYSTEM RIGHT FOR YOU?
Advanced Technology. Wireless DIY security is the hottest security product on the market. Everyone loves its ease of use, convenience, affordability, effortless home-automation, and interactive features.
Wi-Fi Communication. DIY Self-Install systems communicate to our monitoring centers via Wi-Fi technology with a cellular option.
Cameras & Automation. The DIY system is the hub for home automation devices and cameras that integrate to your security and are controlled via one mobile app.
All the Heavy Lifting. Is done. We’ll program and label each device specifically for your home, so all you have to do is open the box, peel and stick the equipment in place, plug it in, connect to your Wi-Fi, and go.
Where to Buy. The DIY system can be purchased either by visiting emcsecurity.com or by contacting us at 770.963.0305. Monthly monitoring is $16.95 for Wi-Fi, $23.95 for cellular option.
Beware of Imitations. Don’t be led into a false sense of security. Never purchase a system from a company that does not require 24/7 professional monitoring, nor provide technical support.
HAVE A SYSTEM? FINE TUNE AND UPGRADE
SECURITY SYSTEM CONVERSION
Is your security system looking a little worn-out? Does it need special treatment or updating?
REPLACE OR MODIFY YOUR EXISTING SYSTEM COMPONENTS
What’s a Conversion? Replacing or modifying the control panel and keypad(s) of an existing security system. Door/window sensors, motion detectors, wiring, and smoke detectors may or may not need to be replaced.
Why Do I Need This? Some systems do not accept a simple reprogramming because of proprietary equipment specific to a ertain alarm company. Therefore, it’s necessary to replace the control panel and keypad(s).
What About Updates? Some systems may not necessarily require a conversion but the customer chooses a conversion to upgrade to newer technology.
Examples and Ideas.
- Upgrade to a touchscreen keypad
- Revise communication method
- Integrate security cameras
- Add home-automation and interactive services
What’s the Process? Contact us at 770.963.0305 to schedule an in-home appointment to inspect the security system and determine your needs. Monthly monitoring is $16.95 for phone and Wi-Fi connection, $23.95 for cellular connection.
In-Home Technician. At this appointment, the conversion will be completed and tested, interactive services will be applied and the homeowner will be fully trained on system operation.
HAVE A SYSTEM? POWER-UP WHAT YOU’VE GOT
SECURITY SYSTEM TAKEOVER
Is your security system ready to go? Is it in crime-fighting shape and just needs to be activated?REPROGRAM YOUR SYSTEM SO EMC SECURITY CAN GET TO WORK
What’s a Takeover? Reprogramming an existing functional security system to allow for a change in monitoring companies.
Why Do a Takeover? A takeover is the most affordable way to switch monitoring companies. If you are searching for a great value you aren’t getting now, switching to EMC Security may be the answer.
What’s Included?
- A full system diagnostic
- Reprogamming & testing
- Battery replacement if needed
- Training on system operation
- EMC Security yard signs and stickers
What’s the Process? Just give us a call at 770.963.0305. We’ll determine if your system can be reprogrammed, go over the details, and schedule the takeover appointment.
EMC Security Difference.
- Monthly monitoring is $16.95 for phone and Wi-Fi , $23.95 for cellular connection.
- No-Contract option
- Response averaging 14 seconds
- New EMC Group Chat Notification
Contact EMC Security. 770.963.0305 | emcsecurity.com
How to Reuse Your Current Security Equipment
Switching to a better home security monitoring service is called a system takeover.
The benefit is that—if it’s relatively modern and compatible—you can keep the equipment you already own rather than buy a completely new system.
How does a system takeover work?
In most cases, it’s fairly straightforward to use your existing security system and switch to a new alarm monitoring company.
It’s important to speak with your new alarm monitoring company to determine if your current system is compatible with their monitoring center.
- For example, when you call EMC Security, the main details we’ll review the type of equipment currently in place (and may ask you to text an image of your keypad) and discover if you want to add or upgrade any components. This might be a good time to upgrade to a touchscreen keypad or add security cameras.
- Once we get a good sense of your situation, we’ll send one of our trained technicians to your home to reprogram your system and make any changes requested or required.
If your system is not currently compatible with EMC Security, but is not locked out due to proprietary equipment, we’ll suggest a conversion to replace the “brains of the system” so it can communicate reliably with our central monitoring station.
- While this option is not as inexpensive as a takeover, it can be quite less expensive than replacing the entire system.
If you want the best security company in your area, we encourage you to shop around and ask your sales rep the right questions. Spending those few extra minutes to understand your security company will save you a lot of headache and disappointment down the line.
Want to learn more about security systems before you make a decision? Contact us at 770-963-0305 and we’ll answer any questions you have.
Is your security system looking a little worn-out? Does it need special treatment or updating?