Blog

Why Cheaper Isn’t Better When It Comes to Security

October 24, 2019|fsstechnologies

What is DIY Security?

The development of home security technology using wireless transmission connections and battery power has made it possible for DIY options to enter the home security market. One of the biggest misconceptions about DIY home security is that it is so easy that a person with absolutely zero background on audiovisual equipment can do it.

Prior Experience Matters

It’s important to think about a home security project like any other DIY home improvement project you might consider:

  • Would you feel confident enough to remove the tile in your bathroom and install new flooring if you have never done it before?

  • Would you rip out your kitchen cabinets and install new ones?

  • How about constructing a new deck on the back of your home? 

Would you feel confident enough to remove the tile in your bathroom and install new flooring if you have never done it before?

Would you rip out your kitchen cabinets and install new ones?

How about constructing a new deck on the back of your home? 

If you or a helpful friend have previous construction experience, then you may feel quite confident about pursuing these tasks.

The Risks of Doing-It-Yourself

If you don’t have construction knowledge, then you probably wouldn’t take on the projects above without professional assistance. They are too large of an investment in time, materials, safety, and the future equity of your home to risk starting the project and not finishing it or finishing it and hating the final product.
 
The same goes for a home security improvement project. If you don’t have any experience installing and operating audiovisual equipment, or anyone with the expertise to help you, installing a quality, effective home security system may turn out to be a much bigger ordeal than you anticipated.

Consult with an Expert

Before you jump in headfirst and purchase a DIY system, it’s worth the time to talk to a professional security company in your area. Local security companies are NOT like national corporations. These corporations might advertise a super low price on equipment, upsell you on more equipment that you may need, and then lock you into years-long monitoring contracts.
 
A reputable local security professional will offer numerous home security components from a wide variety of manufacturers. Local security professionals are trained and certified to install the equipment they represent. The equipment meets all NRTL (Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory) standards, offering the highest level of protection from exploitation and hacking.
 
It’s worth taking time to speak with an expert and get an estimate. You may be surprised at the wide variety of options that are available to you from a local home security company.

Speak with a Security Expert

Explore Our Other Blogs

home-security-cameras-used-in-court-Hero

Can Video Surveillance Be Used In Court?

You should talk to a law enforcement professional in your area to know for sure what is admissible in your local court, but here are some general guidelines about criteria that law enforcement will take into consideration regarding your security camera video. Authenticity  A digital watermark is undetectable to the human eye, but it can…

Continue reading
security-pets-Hero

7 Ways Home Monitoring Keeps Your Pets Safe

Your family’s safety is at the forefront of your mind when installing a security system, and that includes your pets as well. When researching a security product that suits your needs, consider the ways that this technology can help your pets stay safe too. We have detailed some of the most common hazards as well…

Continue reading
smoke-carbon-monoxide-detector-lifespan-hero-min

What is the Lifespan of Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors?

As with pretty much everything, your smoke alarm eventually expires. Sensors can become less sensitive over time, making them less adept at doing their job: detecting smoke, carbon monoxide, or potential fires. Replacing the equipment in your fire safety system is important both at home and in your business. We have developed a quick guide…

Continue reading
BusinessBurglary-Hero-min

Which Businesses are Burglarized Most?

The idea of business theft and burglary is not a pleasant one; however, the likelihood of your business being burglarized is rather high. In fact, approximately 37% of small business owners were impacted by burglary or theft over the past year. Retail businesses in particular are highly targeted as thieves are seeking the opportunity to either use or resell stolen items. Everything from simple shoplifting to employee theft can contribute to overall business…

Continue reading
Hero-security-min

Can a Security System Save My Business Money?

If you’re a business owner, you know the importance of weighing the pros and cons of major purchases before making them. A commercial security system is one of the higher-ticket items that can cause the most significant hesitation. While they can take large investments to purchase, install, and maintain, security systems can offer long-term savings…

Continue reading
Hero-min-(18)

Items Burglars Want Most

Burglars move quickly. Because they tend to spend as little as ten minutes inside a home or business, several big-ticket items tend to fall prey to thieves. While some items on our list come to mind instantly, some may be more subtle. Outside of installing a security system, taking extra steps to secure your items…

Continue reading
monitored-security-system-Hero

Monitored vs. Unmonitored Security Systems

If you’re thinking about installing a security system, you may be wondering if monitoring is a necessary feature. While an unmonitored system is better than nothing at all, there are some critical things you should consider before making a decision. The Benefits of Monitoring  The noise and commotion caused by the sirens and lights associated…

Continue reading
2019-12_FSSTechnologies_blogs_simplisafe-review_hero-min

The Only SimpliSafe Review You Need to Read

What is SimpliSafe? SimpliSafe is one of several do-it-yourself home security systems on the market. The challenge with any DIY home security system, in our opinion, comes down to the customer experience. SimpliSafe’s customer support offers minimal assistance to ensure you adequately install and troubleshoot your system. While they do provide an 800-telephone number, the…

Continue reading
Hero-restaurant-min

Fire Systems for the Restaurant Industry

Companies in varying industries face fire hazards in their standard operations to a certain degree. Businesses that operate commercial kitchens, however, are at significant risk for fire-related hazards because cooking equipment is a leading cause of commercial fires. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, an estimated 50% of non-residential fires were caused by cooking in…

Continue reading
FSS_safest-in-chicago_hero

Choosing a Safe Neighborhood in Chicago

Updated: March 2022 There are a lot of great places to live in Chicago. From the historic vibe of Printers Row to the ultra-stylish River North, there are neighborhoods to fit every personality. But are they safe?   It turns out, many of them are. According to Niche.com—which ranks neighborhoods based on crime, schools, cost of living,…

Continue reading
24h emergency
Secure My Space
chat with us