September 21, 2023 by Anas Mustafa
Your house may have been the first one to get a home security system when it was constructed on your block. Perhaps, you saw a need to install a system years ago due to an unfortunate event in the area.
Whatever the reason you first invested in an alarm system, now is the time to upgrade and improve the current setup.
As technology improves and you gain more control, making sure your system is utilizing the best technology to keep what matters the most to you safe seems paramount.
However, where do you start? With so many options available, speaking to a professional security company is one key factor to ensuring you get the best system for your needs.
Your security panel is the control centre for your system and the first place to start the upgrade process.
The original panels were limited in that they connected to your phone line, engaged an audible siren when the alarm was triggered and could detect an alarm, for example. Then, after an upgrade, you could control your locks, lights and more from your panel. You can even integrate cameras and other automation features to your system.
Now, this upgraded panel can control so many new features; it even has an app for your smartphone so you have remote access when needed. You can also add a cellular connection to this panel, using a dedicated internet connection so as not to disrupt the Wi-Fi speed of the house. This adds an extra layer of security to your home.
Almost everything we do today is automated. The modern security panel allows you to set your own preferences and tailor your protection even further than just adding new features alone.
Time can erase many things, and the frequently used numbers on your security keypad are no exception. While entering your security code is likely second nature (so faded numbers on keypads may not be an issue), it still gives potential criminals a clue as to what the code could be.
Keypads on the central panel are digital and, therefore, harder to erase from sight. However, if the numbers are faded on a keypad door lock you have then it is best to change your code or replace the lock to prevent your code from being discovered. If your door lock is upgraded to a smart lock you can change your code from the smartphone app anytime.
Even keypads on garage doors should be replaced for this same reason. Most break-ins happen on the ground floor at the weakest points, such as the front door, rear entrances, and the garage. So, anywhere on the ground floor that has a keypad should be upgraded.
Wired security cameras still have an important role in home security, but wireless systems give you more freedom to add features and remote access control.
A wireless security system allows you to invest in extra sensors (like on windows), as well as the addition of multiple cameras, such as motion-activated outdoor cameras and doorbell cameras with two-way communication. You can talk to people inside and outside the house, which, in cases of families with elderly relatives or small children, can be a lifesaver.
Upgrading your cameras to a wireless system allows the data to be stored off-site. Additionally, because there are no wires to cut, and with the most up-to-date security patches installed, it is safe against hackers.
These new cameras also allow you to see what is happening in real time, so you can witness events unfold as they happen. This is incredibly useful if you are away and you need to communicate with the emergency services who may be at your home.
In the beginning, your basic security package was an alarm panel, a motion sensor and a couple of door sensors.
However, there are more risks than just burglary. Carbon monoxide, for instance, is the silent killer as this gas has no smell. Most home fires occur because of unattended cooking, electrical faults in wiring, and smoking. The risk of flooding from burst pipes is another factor to consider.
You can now upgrade your security system to detect fires, carbon monoxide and water leaks. Not only could this upgrade see a break in your insurance premiums, but it also increases protection for your family when you are away or at night when everyone is sleeping.
Smart homes are becoming more common with the advancements in technology. Still, should you upgrade your entire home to such a system?
While having the house greet you by name as you enter may not be necessary, you can have the ability to set timers for lights, automatic door-locking at night, and even control the temperature when you are away.
Automation allows us to control certain features (whether we are home or not) by setting preferences on the control panel or by adjusting them from your smartphone. This lowers your carbon footprint by conserving energy and reducing energy bills in the process.
We often upgrade our cars, entertainment systems, computers, and more. So, why not upgrade your home security system, too?
This doesn’t have to be a daunting process. Upgrading cameras or door locks is the first step to greater protection. You can also modernize the security panel so you can allocate individual access codes to those you trust, giving you more control over who can enter your home.
The best part is that you do not have to pay an arm and a leg for installation. With most wireless systems being easy to install, it can be done quickly and effortlessly. Many security companies will offer free installation of a new wireless security system.
When having your security system upgrade done, the technician can also instruct you on how to use the new security panel, program the locks, and how to use the different features in the app. Otherwise, most wireless features are quite user-friendly.
Upgrading is easy with the right help from the experts at Canadian Security Professionals. With our extensive knowledge of which new features will work with existing ones or how today’s advancements can offer more than older security systems, your safety is our top priority.
So, call us today at 1-877-494-9911 and chat with our friendly staff, or contact us here for a free quote.
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