Question:
I am interested in installing an alarm system in my 1600 SF single story
dwelling. Being a DIYer I went to the local hardware story and was impressed
by 2 different systems they offered. One was Home Sentinel and the other was
I think called First Alert.
Here's my question...... do the DIY home systems offer the same security as
lets say,...the professional systems?.
I was reading the information provided with the Home Sentinel system and it
offers a "call for help" system that will call 6 #'s when the alarm goes
off. What does everyone think of these systems? I'd like to expand the
system over time, and the DIY has many affordable options available. I just
don't know the ins and outs of a good security system ... or the "rules" if
at some time I would want to have the system monitored by a professional
service.
I was told that a monitoring company will not monitor a system that has not
been professionally installed. Is that true? And if so,... how would over
time someone even know whether it had been installed professionally?
Any information would be appreciated regarding the above or options of a
good , affordable system. What do you know the home sentinel security system?
Answer:I seem to remember seeing the Home Sentinel alarm system demonstrated at one
of the security conventions a few years ago. If I'm not mistaken, it's also
sold at Home Depot. As I remember it, this is equipment that is definately
targeted strictly at the DIY consumer. As I also remember, it did not have
built in any of the necessary communication formats to interface with
professional central station receivers. It was also quite expensive relative
to the dealer costs of professional alarm equipment.
The idea of a telephone dialer being used to call up to 6 people is one way
to do it. However, all such approaches should not be compared to the
considerably more reliable service of a professional Central Station staffed
by people who know how to respond. But the choice is always the
consumer's....
The one thing I believe you should definately consider is buying
professional grade equipment. Home Sentinel is not that (IMO). First Alert I
cannot comment on as I have no knowledge of that line of equipment..
Local mode; pager mode, or professionally monitored - the choice is yours.
However, do use decent equipment to start with. That way if you eventually
decide to have it monitored, the equipment you bought first time around will
be suitable for the job...
