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#Don - t Buy a Home Alarm System Until You Read This

A sucker is born every day: don t be one! There s so much phony Internet marketing around security systems going on that it s easy to get suckered into paying too much for something you don t really need, or ending up with an alarm company that spends all its dollars on marketing instead of customer service. ASecureLife.com has been reviewing security companies since 2008. Our market research is rigorous and includes installing and testing systems and conducting anonymous consumer research calls to gauge customer experience.

For more info, visit our home security systems reviews page, which contains side-by-side pricing and comparison charts.

Questions to Ask Before You Buy

Before we get in too deep, you ll want to have these questions in-hand to make the most informed buying decision for your home. I mean, what security system components do you really need? How much should you expect to pay for an alarm system? What does installation involve and how complicated is it? I m sure these are some of the questions running through your head they were for me.

Here s a run down of the questions you should ask the company before you buy. I have also put together the answers to help you choose the best home alarm system for you.

1. What are my options?

There are many (in my opinion, just enough to make it super confusing!) home security options, and lingo. out there. One thing you might be wondering is what s the difference between home alarm and home security. As far as the industry s concerned, not much. Technically speaking, a burglar alarm consists of just the skeleton sensors necessary to detect an intrusion (door, window, and motion) and notify the home owner with an audible noise. An alarm system extends this to also include fire and smoke detectors. Taking it a bit further, a home security system also can include monitoring by a central station, home security cameras, remote control via your smartphone, and home automation options such as automated lighting and door locks. With all the tech options today, you probably want to choose this more comprehensive security system to best meet your needs.

2. How much does it cost?

A simple burglar alarm can be purchased on Amazon for as little as $20. A self-monitored alarm system includes an extensive set of sensors including carbon monoxide, freeze and water sensors. A popular version is offered by SimpliSafe  and it can be purchased for around $260. A full-fledged home security system is monitored by a central station and can be upgraded with all the bells and whistles, including home security cameras. It typically locks you into a 3-year contract and starts at $20 per month plus installation fees of $100 and up (but if you ask nicely, they might just offer free equipment and installation).

3. Is there an installation/set up involved?

For most home alarm options, yes. The burglar alarms you buy on Amazon are self-install or DIY. It sounds scarier than it is. In fact, it can be very easy since this usually involves simply attaching sensors to your doors and windows using sticky peel-and-stick adhesive tape (which is also provided). For most of the national security system companies there are usually professional install options available if you prefer. But they can be an added cost and could involve drilling holes in your walls. So with wireless technology, more companies, including Frontpoint and Protect America are relying on a DIY (Do It Yourself) model. DIY allows customers like you to save on installation today and moving costs down the road. This also means you can do it when it s convenient for you vs. taking time off work to meet the installer.

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4. Are there contracts?

There are only contracts with the home security systems that include a monthly monitoring package. And contracts vary based on your needs but the longer the contract, the better price you will likely receive so be sure to ask. Also be sure to read your contract carefully before you sign on the dotted line to make sure you are not caught off-guard with any extra costs or loopholes.

5. Do I need a phone line?

Not anymore. Older alarm systems relied on phone lines, but these are also prone to cutting by thieves, especially on older homes where the phone lines are exposed. The more cutting edge systems, including those you can buy and install yourself, offer a broadband (via your home Internet connection) or cellular (via cell towers) signal option which are much safer and reasonable options for most unless you are a dinosaur