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*Requires 36-month monitoring contract. Early termination and installation fees apply. New customers only. Full Terms.
A security alarm is a system designed to detect and deter intruders by sounding an alarm when triggered. Home security alarms typically include motion detectors, door and window sensors, and glass break detectors. Most security alarm systems can be monitored remotely, either by the property owner via a mobile app, by a security company, or both.
Most home security alarm systems use a network of sensors and detectors connected to a central control panel. These can include door and window motion sensors, glass break sensors, and security cameras. Here is how they work to protect your home and family:
Security alarm systems only work when the system is armed. Most people arm their system when they leave their house or at night while they are sleeping. When the system is armed, these devices are constantly monitoring for signs of intrusion. With so many different components working together, it’s no wonder that home security alarms are an effective way to deter burglars and keep your family safe.
You know the answer to “How do home security alarms work?” But are they worth it? Home security alarms are designed to give homeowners peace of mind and deter burglars, but it’s important to weigh the costs and benefits before making a purchase. Alarms can be expensive to install and require monthly monitoring fees. In addition, false alarms are not uncommon, and they can be costly and frustrating.
On the other hand, home security alarms have been shown to deter burglars and protect homes from break-ins. In fact, homes with alarms are three times less likely to be broken into than homes without alarms. This makes them a worthwhile investment for homeowners who want to protect what matters most at home.
So, how do home security alarms work? All home security alarms work to detect motion and alert you to suspicious activity in and around your home. When it comes to choosing the right home security alarm system for you, there are many options. You can select a basic alarm system with a central hub, motion sensors, and 24/7 professional monitoring from companies like SimpliSafe and Ring. For a more robust system with additional security products and comprehensive monthly monitoring plans, companies like ADT, Frontpoint, and Vivint are excellent choices. To learn more about your options and compare home security alarms from the top companies, check out our comparison guide today!
Editor at SmarterHome
Alyssa is a writer and editor who has spent her entire career making complex topics easy-to-understand through clear, unbiased writing. With a degree in Professional Writing and Information Design, she specializes in creating content about a variety of technical products and applications. Alyssa has been with Smarter Home since it’s beginning, helping develop our rigorous editorial policy. At the end of the day, she hopes she is able to help readers find the information they need to make the right security and smart home choices for them.
Smarter Home was created to help you make an informed decision when choosing a home security system.
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Requires 36-month monitoring contract starting at $38.99/mo. without QSP (24-month monitoring contract in California, total fees from $935.76) and minimum installation amount of $599 for professionally installed systems OR month-to-month monitoring contract for ADT Self Setup systems starting at $24.99 without QSP (one month minimum) and minimum purchase amount of $194.98. Professional monitoring required for ADT to notify emergency contacts or services on your behalf. Service and installation charges vary depending on system configuration, equipment and services selected. For reactivations of professionally installed systems, a $99 test and inspect fee applies . Upon early termination by Customer, ADT may charge 75% of the monthly service charges due for the balance of the initial contract term. Quality Service Plan (QSP) is ADT’s Extended Limited Warranty and is available for additional fee. Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. Professionally installed system remains property of ADT. Local permit fees may be required. Prices and offers subject to change and may vary by market. Additional taxes and fees may apply. Satisfactory credit required. A security deposit may be required. Simulated screen images and photos are for illustrative purposes only. For Self-Setup Systems, cancel by calling 888-392-2039 or by following the instructions in your order confirmation email. To avoid contract termination charges, cancellation must occur no later than 30 days after the contract date. Contract termination charges may be applied for cancellation after the initial 30-day period. Equipment must be fully removed and returned before a refund will be processed. Any shipping costs previously paid are non-refundable. Google and Nest Doorbell are trademarks of Google LLC. Some features, including mobile notifications, remote control, video streaming and video recording, require working internet and Wi-Fi. Minimum OS requirements are available at g.co/home/req. iOS is a trademark of Cisco and is used under license. Google Nest products and services featured are designed to make life easier and to build a helpful home and were not designed specifically for life-sustaining or safety-critical use cases. These products and services are compatible with the ADT Self Setup System, and depend upon working internet, Wi-Fi, and, in some cases, the service availability from ADT and/or Google. To learn more, please visit http://g.co/nest/TOS.
Money-back guarantee only applies after ADT has made attempts to resolve a system-related issue and has not been able to resolve that issue within the first six (6) months of your original activation. ADT Money-Back Guarantee is not transferable. Equipment must be returned before a refund will be processed. Conditions preventing normal system operation cannot be caused by the customer. For professionally installed systems only.
Customer may receive reimbursement of up to five hundred dollars ($500) of Customer’s homeowner’s insurance deductible (if any) if, and only if, ALL requirements for Theft Protection Guarantee are met to ADT’s reasonable satisfaction. Customer must request reimbursement within 60 days of property loss. Request must be mailed to ADT and include: Theft Protection Guarantee certificate signed by Customer, a letter from Customer requesting reimbursement, a copy of the police report, and a copy of the accepted insurance claim. ADT reserves the right to reject any application for reimbursement that does not comply with all of the requirements. For professionally installed systems only.