By Robert Ogle
It’s a wireless world.
Technology that drives electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, television, home audio, and popular voice command systems like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant has a greater impact than any of us ever imagined. Wireless home security systems are no different.
Here are seven reasons why the best wireless home security systems are a wise choice when it comes to protecting your home. There are a multitude of options from wireless home security providers to choose from, so we’ll examine the most common functionality and advantages.
#1. Competitive pricing
The proliferation of wireless home security providers and equipment is creating a competitive playing field. For a basic wireless home security system, the range tends to run from around $159 for the standard five-device Ring system to around $299 for the high-tech Nest Secure alarm system with the same number of devices.
#2. Dependable power
Wireless control panels either run off of battery power or plug directly into power outlets. Most batteries are either rechargeable or easy to replace, and the best wireless home security systems have backup power that can last 12 hours or more. That way, even if the power goes out, you’re still protected.
Even sensor batteries are easy to replace. Using Nest Secure as an example, its Nest Detect door/window/motion sensor uses a small lithium battery that lasts for up to 2 years and takes about 30 seconds to replace.
#3. Easy installation
Here’s where the latest systems really shine. Modern technology has made it easy to set up and activate wireless home security equipment yourself. They typically have easy-mount control keypads or bases that require no mounting at all, just sitting easily on any flat surface.
Professional installation is typically available but isn’t a requirement. Most wireless systems use peel-and-stick to mount door or window sensors, motion detectors, and other equipment. That makes it easy enough for almost anyone to place them perfectly.
#4. Full expandability
If your home is large, you’ll quickly find that a standard five-piece system may not provide complete protection. But since wireless sensors and detectors are simple to connect to your base unit, it’s easy – and affordable – to grow your system and cover your entire home. You don’t need professional installation, and you can easily relocate the devices within your home to determine their best locations.
#5. Smart-home technology
Don’t stop customizing your home security. A wireless system makes it easy to add devices like a video doorbell, indoor or outdoor video cameras, door locks, lights, thermostats, and even a garage-door controller.
Consider which devices will make your life easier. A video doorbell lets you see and speak to anyone at your front door, whether you’re at home or not. Use video cameras as potential burglary deterrents, as well as a cool way to keep an eye on kids, pets, and property when you’re not home. And smart lights and thermostats not only help you control your environment, but they can also produce considerable savings on your monthly energy bill.
#6. Easy to relocate
The ability to remount home security and smart-home devices is also an advantage if you decide to move. Just take it down and take it with you. These devices are easy to reconfigure once you get to your new home.
However, there’s a case to be made for leaving your wireless home security behind when you move. According to a 2017 survey of real estate professionals by Coldwell Banker and the research firm T3 Sixty, 40 percent said they felt that wireless home security and other smart-home technology would help a home sell faster, regardless of price.
Nearly 80 percent of respondents said they believe buyers would be willing to pay more for a smart home. That means a new owner can easily adjust the system to fit their lifestyle.
#7. You’re the boss
Once you’ve created your masterpiece with a wireless home security system that includes smart-home technology, you’re going to be able to control it from practically anywhere. Top-of-the-line wireless home security systems integrate tightly with mobile apps that let you control not just your security, but also compatible smart-home devices.
If you’re running late at work and you’re not going to be home before dark, you can use the mobile app to switch on some lights. That makes it look like someone’s home. That’s a proven burglary deterrent since burglars like to avoid having an audience while they’re working. And naturally, you’ve always got access to live footage from your video cameras.
That’s just scratching the surface of wireless potential. Now that millions of families now make Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant part of their everyday lives, you can choose a home security system that’s compatible with voice control.
There’s nothing more satisfying than telling your home what to do – whether it’s arming your system, turning off the lights, or locking the front door.
About the Author: Robert Ogle is a writer and editor with seven years of experience in the home security industry. He currently is Senior Copywriter at Brinks Home Security and was formerly editor of Security Nation magazine for the Electronic Security Association. Robert also focuses on smart-home technology trends, as well as the impact of disruptive innovation. Connect with him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/robertogle/.