Whats the best security system for personal residence?

Question

I'm looking to get a new security system for my personal residence and was wondering if anyone could recommend what systems the best. I've thought about installing it myself but wasn't sure if its cost effective or should i just pay somebody like ADT? I'm very hands on person so i don't think it would be a problem for me but wondered if it would even be worth it. Plus would it be as good of a system as ADT or another comparable brand?

Tim G. · Answer

I'm a big fan of dogs, although my main reason is for companionship... security is the perk.

Bill Gulley · Answer

Get a sign and a few decals for the windows and another that says: THIS PROPERTY PROTECTED BY COLT Then get yourself a good Colt AR-15. LOL Other than that, each company has different deals as they seem to be independly owned stores. ADT is popular in my area and from what I hear many sign up and don't continue service. My sister had a heck of a time with false alarms. Keep in mind that many police stations/LEOs won't respond to an automated call, they want a human to call it in. The first defense is simply a deterant, actually the signs will keep amatures away, kids looking for a few bucks or something to hock. If you are in a neighborhood I suggest meeting the neighbors and everyone keeps an eye out for each other. Consider a dog too, it does not have to be a 128 pound, over 6' long German Shepard like mine, anything that makes enough noise will do.

Chris Weiler · Answer

What are you trying to protect? People, possessions or both? If you're just worried about possessions or damage to the property while you are away, a good insurance policy is probably the only "security system" you will need. :cool:

Mike Haro · Answer

I like ADT some of our properties don't have an active phone line and ADT offers a cellular pack that mounts on the wall. It's a bit bulky but it works great. Also, while motion sensors are great dont overlook the need for door and window sensors especially on the basements and ground levels

Ryan B. · Answer

Rotweiler named cupcake works like a charm.

Chris Sweeney · Answer

We had a someone try and break into our house in So Cal and that night the dog was in the garage so the burglar didn't even try to get in after a 75 pound bark. We had Brinks that became Broadview and now is ADT. It's quite cost effective for the minimal install but $30 a month seems excessive. Further, they put you on a 3 year contract and if you move they will set you up with a new system at your new house for FREE.....well sort of, the 3 year contract then starts over!! A dog plus a sign or two probably does the trick. If you want the system and monitoring consider the local alarm company that advertises "no contract $19 monitoring" as you know they probably all use the same call centers. Oh, by the way, just got a bill from our city for a "alarm registration fee" as they are sick and tired of false alarms.

Bryan Rush · Answer

If you have no problems with electricity and internet access, try doing this: Use motion detection on your webcam to email you when something sets the motion detector off. Set up a bunch of cheap webcams and run them to an old laptop with an internet connection. Most if not all webcams have motion capture ability. Use the integrated webcam software, or download something for free if necessary, that gives you the ability to email photographs of the action whenever something sets off the motion detector. Set up motion sensor activated lights and you've got a "free" security system. If you have the system set up well, then just stay logged into your email wherever you are and if your home system alerts you, check out the photos and call the cops if you see something happening. This should be only part of your total system of course, with a dog and locks being important parts too. :wink:

Mitch Kronowit · Answer

We use a 65 pound boxer as our early warning system, Frisbee catcher, and snuggler (she thinks she's a lap dog). We also have a monitored ADT system for backup (discount with USAA). The dog goes off way before the ADT system does.

Account Closed · Answer

Seriously, I'd be curious as well what kind of security system might be the best. A colt might work well if know how to use it and are home. I've considered hiring house sitters when I go on vacation. In my area there are very few burglaries, but it would be comforting to have a good security system in place. In my area ADT is a big player, but not the only player. What might some people recommend, besides a gun, attack dog, killer cat or uncle Vinnie.

Timithy Smith · Answer

i'm also a fan of guard dogs and attack dogs