About Home Alarm Systems

Function

• Home alarm systems differ according to their intended goal. Versions that protect against burglary are programmed to look for movements and unusual events. When these alarm systems are set off, an audible alarm is typically emitted from the device. Additionally, many versions send a notification to local law enforcement alerting police of a possible dangerous situation. In addition to burglary, home alarm systems can also check for the presence of other hazards such as smoke or carbon monoxide.

Features

• Many home alarm systems use passive infrared detectors, which can notice sudden changes in the temperature of a room. Another popular feature is microwave detectors, which use beams of radiation to track movement. Photo-electric beams are also sometimes used to track movement by using infrared light beams. Glass break detectors can be installed that are alerted when it hears the distinctive sound of shattering glass. Newer glass-break detectors use seismic detectors that are triggered by vibrations. With most alarm systems, a keypad is installed near the door where the homeowner can arm and disarm the alarm.

Types

• Many companies offer home alarm systems. The two most popular choices in the United States are ADT Security Services and The Brink's Company. Combined, these two corporations make up more than 50 percent of the home alarm systems market.

Benefits

• Studies show that a a properly installed home alarm system drastically reduces the occurrence of a home invasion or burglary. The same studies show an even further correlation between surviving house fires and carbon monoxide leaks when the appropriate devices are in place. Additionally, insurance rates on homes are often cheaper after the installation of an alarm system.

Warning

• With all alarm systems, a chance of false alarms exists. These occur because of malfunctioning systems, loose connections, low batteries and interference by small animals, insects or even gentle breezes. Many law enforcement agencies are now charging for emergency calls that turn out to be false alarms, so make sure the alarm system is in proper working order.