Being a computer geeky type, I have always been enthralled with technology. I suppose it makes sense then, that I recently started pondering security systems for my house. After spending “countless” hours reading forums, talking to friends, meeting security system installers, et cetera, I have made a decision on the best one: Alarm.com.
Ok, now you might be thinking: “Big surprise, Dustin, the web developer, chose a security company that has .com in the name”. I promise you though, it’s more than just the name!
Here’s my reasoning:
1) I don’t have a regular land line (POTS) and I don’t intend to get one just to support a security system (especially since it seems to be pretty easy to cut).
Alarm.com uses a wireless cellular (GSM) system — no wires to cut and reliable service 24 hours a day.
2) I don’t want my security system to depend exclusively on a home internet connection (and again… that’s easy to cut).
There are alternate companies who rely exclusively on home broadband internet based communications. Home internet connections are fine for email and web surfing, but I would never trust my home security to a cable or DSL modem.
3) I want a system that is built solidly and will protect my family and home from the blights of society.
Alarm.com currently uses a GE Concord panel, a highly regarded system in the security arena. It’s reliable, tough, and well-tested.
4) I need flexibility, expandability, and advanced features, while still being easy to use (since my wife is not a computer programmer).
The panel used by Alarm.com currently has 96 available wireless zones, 16 wired zones (plus 2 smoke detector zones), easy to use interfaces, and everything else you could possible need.
5) I prefer a price that doesn’t require a 2nd mortgage to keep running (the price should be mostly offset by a homeowners insurance discount).
Alarm.com is a relative bargain compared to other companies (especially making use of wireless signaling and internet reconfiguration).
6) I yearn for a system that appeals to my nerdy gadget-oriented side.
This is the part that really had me convinced! Imagine being able to log in to your alarm system from anywhere in the world and see what is going on currently and what has happened in the past.
What if you could program new security codes, arm and disarm the system, set up lighting schedules (based on events like doors opening) using standard X10 controllers?
What if you’d like to see if “someone” has gotten into the alcohol cabinet when they weren’t supposed to?
Alarm.com makes it all possible and much more, through their powerful and simple online interface. The portal makes programming your alarm system a snap and it’s very simple to set up notification contact lists (both phone and email) for everything from a door opening to true alarm events.
So, add all those requirements & features up and what do you get? Alarm.com tops my list. In fact, even if you take out many of my personal “requirements”, Alarm.com is still the best bang-for-the-buck of any security company I researched or talked to (and I talked to a lot of them).
I can also personally attest to the over-the-top customer service at Alarm.com. They respond to your emails, treat you like a real person, and don’t have a foreign accent (ie: they are easy to understand).
At this point, I’ve chosen the equipment and picked an installation date. I’ll update you as the house nears completion and the service goes live.
Leave a comment if you have any questions.
EDIT: Please read my new review everyone – it’s been a while since I wrote this.