Whether or not you agree with the studies saying that home security makes us safer, the number of features smart home security systems offer is massive. Even in an area where you leave your doors unlocked, having a system to control your lights, temperature, or media systems in your house is valuable. You could be saving money as you protect your home.
Here are the 5 most important features to look for in your next security system.
1. Make Sure There’s Remote Access
While there are lots of smart home systems available on the market today, finding one that is fully automated and can control your home is easy. At the bare minimum, you should be able to change settings quickly and easily if the weather changes, if you’re letting a friend in, or staying out longer.
For this, you need to have remote access so you can change things from afar with the push of a button. As we split more of our time between home and work, which is getting ever more complicated, we need our devices and home systems to help out. Communicating your needs to your home automation system should be a breeze.
Whether you hear about a nearby break-in and want to turn on the lights or if you want to know if someone has breached your property, you need remote access. If you’re paying for internet access, your system should be able to hop on your network easily.
But, the system itself needs to have a high degree of network security. If someone can hack into your router, they shouldn’t also get access to your security system. Seek out a secure system which offers you access from your smartphone or wireless device.
2. Upgrading Should Be Simple
While shiny touch screens and simple black boxes that can hide in a corner might look good, what you need from security systems are easy upgrades. As more devices you use at home will become smart and networked, they will all use different software and firmware. As each device upgrades, it needs to continue to be integrated into the whole system.
Since software is the cornerstone of your smart home security, you need to be on top of the changes that come along. If you have to wait for a specialist or a service professional to come by to get the upgrades that you need, you might defer your upgrades for a while. But, the longer you wait, the longer you could leave your system vulnerable to being hacked or subverted.
Since the purpose of your smart home security system is to secure your living space, upgrading should be simple. Without having to call a professional in, you should be able to download software updated automatically or with great ease.
3. Variety of Interfaces
Every type of user has a different way of thinking and will need a unique interface to make them comfortable. Additionally, every type of usage might need a different interface rather than being crammed all on one screen. You should be able to have a separate screen with all your remote cameras, another with temperature control, and yet another with alarm devices.
Depending on your family’s needs or your budget, you might have a broad range of security devices integrated into your system. Your home security system should scale up for a big estate or down to a small suburban home.
If you use a variety of devices, your smart home system should be able to provide a native interface for each one. By allowing you to use a third-party device with a single controller, your security system will allow you to have the best tools at your fingertips.
4. A Strong Track Record
When it comes to a smart home security system, it’s dangerous to be the first home around to try it out. When glitches and malfunctions happen, you’re not talking about a small bump in the road. You could be putting your family or your belongings at stake.
The most trusted manufacturers and companies in the field are creating home security devices which live up to their standards. Behind your security devices, which might seem completely new to you, you’ll find a familiar brand and business model.
When you hire someone to install your system, you should also be getting a professional endorsed by that brand. This will not only ensure you feel comfortable but also that the brand you’ve chosen will stand behind that professional. For the wide variety of devices now available, do some research to learn more.
5. Energy Management Tools
Since we’re all talking about the changes due to come thanks to our rapidly declining climate, we all need to lower our carbon footprint. Thankfully, most consumer devices are trying to show off their ability to help us conserve energy.
With the help of your security system, you should also be able to manipulate the temperature in your home and set it as conditions change. If you’re not going to be home soon, you can keep your heater from turning the temperature up. Being able to manage the temperature in your home remotely will save you money and help protect the planet.
Ask about all the energy-saving features or how you can integrate your smart home security system with your heating or A/C system.
Smart Home Security Is A Powerful Tool
Whether you’re looking to manage your energy usage or keep an eye on security cameras, smart home security solutions are a great tool. They can save you money on your energy bill as well as protect your home from losses by alerting you when someone is on your property. If you want to rent out part of your property for short-term rentals, you can do that with remote access.
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