How To Compare Alarm Systems
If you’ve been researching home alarm systems you may have found that many of them are similar, offer similar products, an have similar pricing. It’s the “small” things that really make the difference between a good alarm company and the best alarm company. Reading alarm system reviews and other things might give you all the details about each alarm company and system, but doesn’t necessarily tell you how to compare things like alarm system pricing or equipment. Here are a few ways to compare alarm systems:
Compare Alarm System Equipment
The alarm system equipment is one of the most important factors when comparing alarm systems. One company may offer a wireless alarm system while another may offer hard wired system. One company may have GE equipment while another offers Honeywell. How do you compare them? First, let’s get the easy one out of the way. Wireless alarm system are simply better. They have more flexibility, provide great protection, and are much easier to install than hard wired systems. As for the rest, you may have to do a little digging or call the alarm company to ask questions. You’ll want to find out things like warranties, sensor battery life, and durability. GE makes some of the best alarm systems out there today, and many of the top alarm companies use GE as their equipment manufacturer.
When comparing alarm system equipment pricing you’ll want to look at the amount of equipment you are getting and who the manufacturer is. If one company offers you a lower price for the exact same system this should be an easy comparison, although you would be wise to find out WHY the one price is higher or lower.
Compare Alarm System Monitoring Pricing
Alarm system monitoring pricing may be one of the most compared aspects of home alarm systems. This is the cost you’ll pay each month for your alarm system to be monitored. When comparing alarm system monitoring prices the first thing you need to look at is the type of monitoring. Is it cellular alarm system monitoring, phone line monitoring, or broadband monitoring? It’s tough to compare apples to oranges, so unless you are comparing the same type of monitoring your comparison may be moot. However, since most alarm companies are now moving towards cellular alarm system monitoring you’ll likely only have to compare prices for cellular.
Another thing to look at is the length of contract you have. If your agreement is shorter your monthly fee will likely be a little higher than one with a bit longer contract. You can compare the costs over the long term by adding up the amount you will pay over the life of the contract and compare it to another.
Compare Alarm System Company Customer Service
This can’t simply be done by reading an alarm system review or a few blog posts. To compare alarm system company customer service you’ll have to read expert alarm system reviews as well as those from customers. You can find customer reviews on sites like Yelp! or the Better Business Bureau.
In the end comparing alarm systems isn’t overly difficult, but it can get confusing if you’re not sure what you are comparing or how to compare alarm systems. Hopefully the above tips will help you along the way to compare and find the best alarm system for you.
