Category: lkcmslk

Security camera systems are a powerful tool for protecting your home or business.

And with the technological advances that have been made in image quality, size, and wireless capabilities, it’s important that you understand all of the options available to you.

Certain cameras are better suited to some situations, so choosing the right surveillance camera for the job can save you a lot of time, frustration, and money.

Benefits of Security Cameras

Security cameras are far more powerful tools than we often think. The point is not necessarily just to deter crime, although that’s a major part of it. Here’s a number of different ways security cameras can help you:

• Provide a strong visual deterrent
• Identify passing vehicles and their plate numbers
• Survey the area when you’re not around
• Detect fires
• Detect intrusion (line crossing)
• Detect suspicious traffic (e.g. someone scoping out the house)
• Object removal detection (know when someone removes things from your backyard or shed)
• Send a notification when someone is at the edge of your home’s perimeter
• Confirm whether contractors arrived and left when they said they did to ensure they bill the correct amount

There are 4 different types of security cameras:

1. Fixed indoor cameras
2. Dome cameras
3. PTZ cameras
4. Bullet cameras

Fixed indoor cameras are stationary cameras that come in a variety of different styles. They are popular due to their affordability and ease of use.

Honeywell WIC1 Indoor Camera

Dome cameras are those dark, bulb-shaped devices you’ve probably noticed in the ceiling of a department store, a bank, or a government office. They’re designed to be tamper-proof.

Axis Communications M3025-VE 2MP Outdoor Dome Camera

PTZ cameras (pan-tilt-zoom cameras) allow you to pan side-to-side, tilt up and down, and zoom remotely. If you’ve got a wide viewing angle to cover, one PTZ camera can get a fuller picture compared to most others.

Dahua 2MP 30X Zoom Megapixel 1080P HD Oudoor IP PTZ Network Security Surveillance CCTV Camera

Bullet cameras are fixed cameras that can be used indoors or outdoors. This is probably the most traditional design that we associate with security cameras. They’re a little bit larger than the other options, but these are most commonly found in security camera system kits.

1080p Bullet Outdoor Security Camera

We can break down all of these camera types into two categories: wireless and wired.

Both have their pros and cons:

Wireless cameras have become popular in the past decade as data transfer rates over WiFi increased, and wireless connections became more reliable. These are often used for general surveillance, baby monitors, and nanny cams.

There are also two different types of wireless cameras: traditional wireless cameras and wire-free wireless cameras.

Traditional Wireless vs Wire-free Wireless Cameras

Traditional Wi-Fi cameras, also known as IP cameras, have power cords that have to be plugged into the wall in order to power the camera. This is true for both indoor and outdoor wireless cameras.

While relatively easy to install for indoor use because of access to power outlets, it can become a bit more complicated when these cameras are placed outside.

Depending on your home’s design wiring, installation of these cameras may require some finesse to minimize exposed wires.

Wire-free cameras are battery-powered and, because they use Wi-Fi, have no external wiring.

Some wire-free cameras are also weather-resistant so they can be placed outside. Some wire-free cameras — like the Arlo — require a base station that must be plugged into your router. So, even though the cameras themselves are wireless, the system is not completely wireless.

When it comes to wired cameras, you also have two different types of cameras as well. You have analog cameras and you have POE cameras (power over ethernet).

Before going into the differences between these cameras, it’s important to understand the difference between a DVR and an NVR.

DVRs vs NVRs

A DVR (digital video recorder), is a device that you connect to analog cameras so you can view, manage, and record the footage that they capture.

8 Channel Security DVR

An NVR (network video recorder) works with POE cameras and IP cameras, acting just like a DVR but with a few additional features.

One distinguishing factor is that some of them have POE ports in them, so you can plug the cameras directly into the NVR, record your videos, and manage your cameras.

Dahua NVR608 128 Channel Super 4K Network Video Recorder

You can also connect IP cameras that you have on your network to the NVR. Even though they’re not directly connected to the Wi-Fi, it can still manage them. Another thing to keep in mind is that NVR supports higher camera resolutions than DVRs because ethernet cables can handle a lot more bandwidth.

Analog vs POE cameras

Analog security cameras use technology called BNC. BNC is an older video cable technology that used to be the standard for surveillance and video equipment.

If you have newer analog cameras, you can use BNC to support HD (720p) resolutions. If you buy analog cameras, you’ll have to get a DVR to connect your system, view your videos, and manage your cameras.

Although the price might be lower, analog will require you to snake wiring all throughout your house. Cables included in analog camera kits usually consist of a BNC connector on both ends and a power cord that power your camera.

The other type of wired camera is the POE camera.

POE cameras use a single ethernet cable for power and video, so it’s easier to set up compared to analog systems.

Keep in mind in order to use a POE camera, you have to have a network switch that supports POE. Most network switches don’t normally support POE, so you might have to buy a new one specifically with that feature.

Instead of doing that, you may want to consider an NVR that has POE ports on it. This has the added benefit of helping you manage your network traffic by preventing you from clogging up your network with video data.

POE cameras provide the best image quality of all the cameras, because ethernet supports higher bandwidth than a wireless connection.

If you need a really high resolution camera that lets you zoom in to capture facial features or license plates from far away, POE cameras are the way to go.

Resolution

Video resolution is measured in pixels or TVL, which stands for television lines.

For comparison, if you see a resolution description of 1920 TVL, that’s approximately the same as 1080p resolution.

Another measurement of resolution that you’ll see is megapixels. So you’ll see cameras that are described as having 2, 3, or 4 megapixels. To clarify, 2.1 megapixels is roughly 1080p, and any camera that goes higher than 2.1 megapixels is likely to be a POE camera, since ethernet is best able to support that extra bandwidth.

Which Camera Type is the Best?

Now that you know the difference between all these cameras, let’s talk about the pros and cons of each.

Wi-Fi Cameras

Wi-Fi cameras, or traditional wireless cameras, are the most common consumer-grade cameras out there. They generally have better image quality than most wire-free cameras.

Honeywell WIC2 Indoor Camera

There are a lot of different Wi-Fi or IP cameras on the market, It’s important to keep in mind that the difficulty of installation and setup can range from “easy” to “moderately difficult” depending on which one you get — especially if it will be placed outside.

As a side note, If you want to buy several wireless cameras, you need to be aware that too many cameras on the same network can bog down your Wi-Fi.

Ease of Setup/Installation: 5/5

User Experience: 4/5

Image quality: 4/5

Price: 4/5

Wire-Free Cameras

The simplest of all these options are wire-free cameras because they’re easy to install and set up. Cloud subscription fees to store the video are reasonably-priced and the apps to control them tend to be well-designed which makes for a great user experience.

The downside to wire-free cameras is that they are battery-operated. If placed in a high-traffic area with a lot of motion to trigger it, the battery can drain quickly and will need to be replaced fairly often. One customer told us he had to change the batteries in his wire-free camera every three days due to cars passing by his house!

Image quality isn’t as good as other options because the videos are highly compressed to conserve battery life and to make the file small enough to store in the cloud.

Ease of Setup/Installation: 5/5

User Experience: 4/5

Image quality: 3/5

Price: 4/5

Analog Security Cameras

Analog security cameras are the most affordable if you’re on a tight budget or if you want to create an entire camera system. While you will have to run cable to connect them throughout your house, they’re relatively easy to install.

Configuring them, on the other hand, takes a bit more patience.

One thing to pay attention to when buying an analog camera is the resolution because many cameras in this category are not high-definition (HD). Some manufacturers make false claims about image quality in their marketing materials.

Since these tend to capture lower quality images and require a BNC connector to record to an external source some of these cameras are being phased out in favor of higher-resolution cameras and things like POE.

Ease of Setup/Installation: 4/5

User Experience: 3/5

Image quality: 3/5

Price: 5/5

POE Cameras

POE cameras offer great image quality and reliability. They can support high-resolution cameras and they only require a single cable for everything.

The downsides of POE cameras is that they are harder to install, and may require that you run ethernet cables throughout your house.

They’re also more expensive compared to analog cameras and some wireless cameras.

Ease of Setup/Installation: 3/5

User Experience: 4/5

Image quality: 5/5

Price: 3/5

The Benefits of Security Cameras

Security camera systems and video surveillance provide great benefits for homes and businesses. They help deter theft and crime, allow you to monitor activity, help reduce insurance costs, and create a safer home environment and workplace. By keeping a constant eye on your home or business, you can help secure and protect your family, employees and business.

Deter Theft & Crime

One of the biggest benefits of a security camera system is deterring crime and theft. People are less likely to commit a crime if they know they are being watched or monitored with camera surveillance. In addition to random theft, employees may steal from a business. Although many business owners don’t like to think that their employees would steal from them, it does happen. Having footage can help give you the proof you need to catch the thief, plus the evidence can be used in court if needed.

Monitor Activity

No one is capable of being everywhere at once, but a security camera system allows you to keep a constant eye on your home or business. They are beneficial for monitoring the day-to-day activities to protect you and your interests. This can be especially beneficial at home when you are away from home or for businesses when there are remote sites and when a manager isn’t present at all times.

For businesses security cameras can help boost efficiency and productivity as well as provide the evidence needed to resolve conflicts.

Help Reduce Insurance Costs

If someone claims they were injured on your property and you have no proof of whether the event happened or not, your insurance premiums will likely increase. Having evidence of incidents that occur is extremely beneficial, especially if someone is trying to scam you. In addition, many insurance providers offer discounted rates if you install surveillance cameras in/around your home or business.

Create a Safe Environment

By installing a security camera system you are creating a safer home environment and workplace. Your family and employees will feel safer, and you’re more likely to prevent break-ins and vandalism.

There are many benefits to installing security cameras in and around your home and business.

Conclusion

While indoor cameras are effective for monitoring activity around and inside your home — to check on a child, nanny, or pet — cameras do not sound an alarm like the other sensors.

Cameras excel at letting you check-in on your home, deter unwanted visitors, and collect potential evidence.

Combine your security camera with other security products to create multiple layers of security; not just from burglars, but also from other hazards like fire and carbon monoxide.

The good news is that you can integrate your security camera with your security system so that you can access and control everything from a single app.

Want to learn more about protecting your home?

If you’re curious which security camera system would be most beneficial for your home or business, give the experts at Alarm New England a call! We can find the right solution for your specific needs so that you’re able to create a safer environment.

Cape Cod is one of those fun-filled locations that most people only see while on vacation. The Cape’s beautiful beaches go hand in hand with its sunny weather, and if you like a little adventure, there are some great hiking and biking trails in the area.

The Cape has something for everyone: beaches, natural parks, five-star dining options, traditional Cape architecture, and more.

A common misconception people have is that Cape Cod is too expensive to move to. But living in the Cape can be affordable as long as you avoid prime areas—it’s a location that can cater to every lifestyle.

Alarm New England has operated an office out of Yarmouth for decades now, so we know the ins and outs of Cape Cod, how to protect Cape Cod homes, and what it’s like to live there for the long-haul.

So whether you’re planning on becoming a Cape Cod resident or you’re just dreaming about moving there, here’s what living in Cape Cod is like.

A Brief History of Cape Cod

The Cape was originally home to the native Wampanoag people until the 17th century. In 1620, the Pilgrims landed in Cape Cod at Provincetown before settling a month later in Plymouth across the Cape Cod Bay.

Twenty years later, European settlers came to Cape Cod and began to spread into the Cape. They learned from the Wampanoag people and adopted the native farming and fishing techniques. Settlers even built homes similar to those of the natives at first before building European-style homes.

Over the centuries, Cape Cod became more and more of a tourist destination. In the 19th century, people from Boston would travel to the Cape by boat or coach, and as technology improved, train travel connected the Cape to Boston and Providence, Rhode Island.

Three canal bridges were eventually built, making Cape Cod easy to access, and tourists have been venturing to the peninsula ever since.

Navigating Around Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a peninsula in Massachusetts that curves out into the Atlantic Ocean. While the Cape is separated from the rest of the state by a narrow body of water, this stretch of land is easily accessible from Boston and Providence thanks to canal bridges.

Cape Cod spans the whole of Barnstable County and has 15 towns. To make it easier to remember where everything is, Cape Cod is split into four different sections: Upper Cape, Mid-Cape, Outer Cape, and Lower Cape.

Think of Cape Cod as an arm, with the Upper Cape as the shoulder and the Lower Cape as the elbow. This visual will help you place towns and locations as different points on the Cape Cod arm.

Getting around the Cape

Even if you think of Cape Cod as four sections of an arm, the roads of Cape Cod can take a little getting used to. The road system dates back to the 17th-century hunting trails used by the European settlers, so you may encounter routes that seem to meander in strange ways.

However, it doesn’t take long to get used to them, and many of the Cape’s roads will lead you past some beautiful sights.

If you don’t want to drive in Cape Cod, there are public transit options available. Sit back and relax on one of the Cape’s buses. Some buses can take you around the Cape, while other buses connect Cape Cod to Boston, Brockton, and Providence.

Taking a trip out of Cape Cod

If you live in Cape Cod, you’ve got plenty of options for day trips and vacations. The Cape is well-connected to Boston and Providence by road and by public transportation.

You can reach either city within one to two hours, provided that traffic is reasonable, so locals often go on day trips to go shopping or see sights and museums. In fact, the cities are so close that many people even commute to work in Boston or Providence from the Cape.

As for vacations out of Cape Cod, there are bus services to Provincetown and Hyannis airports, which take the stress out of getting to the airport.

Moving to Cape Cod

Before you consider moving to Cape Cod, it’s worth learning a bit more about the area and what it’s like to live there. Here are some things to consider before moving to Cape Cod.

Choosing your neighborhood

People often think of Cape Cod as one place, but there are so many distinct towns and villages within the Cape. Each town has its own quirks and perks, and each area offers a different lifestyle.

So before moving to Cape Cod, look into the different areas and choose the neighborhood that suits you best.

Ask yourself these questions to help decide which neighborhood is right for you:

• Do you want to be close to convenience stores and public facilities? Or would you rather be in a more rural location?
• Do you want to live just a few steps from the beach in a premium location? Or would you rather be away from the hustle and bustle during tourist season?

Cost of living in Cape Cod

People move to Cape Cod for stunning sea views, spacious ranch-style homes, and beautiful landscapes. However, these homes come with a price tag to match.

While the peninsula’s prime locations are more expensive, they offer the best of Cape life. Some of the more expensive houses have private beach access, while others have access to swimming ponds.

Keep in mind that when compared to other prime locations, such as a wealthy suburb of Boston or a downtown luxury brownstone, top spots in Cape Cod may not be that much more expensive.

And if you look for towns and locations that are off the beaten path, you’ll find Cape Cod homes that are more affordable for all types of lifestyles.

Home insurance is typically more expensive in Cape Cod because the area is more susceptible to hurricane damage, but the lower property taxes offset this to some degree. There’s also no sales tax on non-luxury food and clothing, so the cost of living tends to balance out compared to a city.

A big factor when considering a move to Cape Cod is the lack of jobs in the region. Most jobs are in the tourism industry—there isn’t really a Cape Cod business district. So if you’re hoping to find work when you relocate, you may have to commute a greater distance to the nearby cities of Boston or Providence.

Crime rate in Cape Cod

For the most part, cities and towns on the Cape are relatively low-density and crime rates among the permanent population are low. Thanks to increased police presence on the Cape in recent years, the number of violent crimes in the area are largely declining across the board.

However, Cape Cod attracts tens of thousands of tourists each year, which can inflate crime statistics. The town of Barnstable ranked 93rd in the Top 100 Most Dangerous U.S. Cities list for 2017, according to NeighborhoodScout. To get a more well-rounded understanding of the level of day-to-day crime on the Cape, it’s better to follow local print publications or news websites such as Cape Cod Today.

As many homes in Cape Cod are vacant outside of the summer months, installing a home security system is crucial to keeping these homes protected year-round from burglars and environmental hazards like fires and floods. Installing an alarm system for your vacation home in Cape Cod is highly recommended to avoid costly repairs or insurance premiums down the line.

Should you feel unsafe while living on the Cape, there are steps you can take to secure your home from burglars, including adding a home security system. Read our list of 30 home security tips to prevent home invasions to learn more

What are the safest towns in Cape Cod?

According to the FBI, the safest towns in the area are Sandwich, Brewster, Bourne, Harwich, and Mashpee.

1. Sandwich

Not only is Sandwich the safest town but also the oldest in Cape Cod being incorporated in 1639. The overall crime rate in this town is 1.11%.

• Population: 20.6K residents
• Crime Rate: 11.1 per 1,000 residents

2. Brewster

There is no shortage of inns and B&B’s in Brewster. Home of the Captain Freeman Inn and Crosby Mansion this town takes silver with a crime percentage of 1.34%.

• Population: 9.8K residents
• Crime Rate: 13.4 per 1,000 residents

3. Bourne

Bourne is located on the western end of Barnstable County and gets the bronze medal with a crime percentage of 1.88%.

• Population: 19.8K residents
• Crime Rate: 18.8 per 1,000 residents

4. Harwich

Harwich is most well known for its cranberry bogs and the annual Harwich Cranberry Festival. This town is fourth on our list with a crime percentage of 1.91%.

• Population: 12.2K residents
• Crime Rate: 19.1 per 1,000 residents

5. Mashpee

One of the most diverse towns on the Cape, Mashpee starts the list with a crime percentage of 1.99%.

• Population: 14.1K residents
• Crime Rate: 19.9 per 1,000 residents

Traditional Cape Cod architecture

If you’ve visited Cape Cod before, you no doubt remember the unique style of Cape Cod architecture. Homes in the peninsula are often reminiscent of traditional New England homes constructed around the early 20th century.

You can buy a house with a history in Cape Cod. Some homes in the area are up to 200 years old, and while they involve a little more maintenance and a few more inspections, they often have a lot of character.

Two main styles of homes you’ll find in Cape Cod are Cape cottages and Cape ranches. Cape cottages evolved from the simple cottages that the earliest settlers learned to build.

Cape ranches, on the other hand, date back only to the 1960s. Cape ranches are single-story homes with lower-sloping roofs than Cape cottages. Cape ranches are usually more affordable, as they have less attic space. You’ll also find homes built in a Georgian or federal style around the Cape.

Enjoying Life in the Cape

Living in Cape Cod is the perfect experience if you want to fill your free time with fun and adventure and escape the fast-paced and crowded city life. The peninsula offers plenty of activities and opportunities to keep local residents entertained and active year-round.

Outdoor adventures

Cape Cod has many beautiful and pristine landscapes, so it’s an ideal location if you like to explore off the beaten track.

The weather is relatively warm for much of the year—well, warm by New England standards. This means you can spend more days outdoors, taking in the scenery.

There are hikes to be taken, and bike trails to cycle. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for a swim. While Atlantic cod aren’t as plentiful as they used to be on Cape Cod, there is still a variety of fish to catch. Buy or rent fishing gear and enjoy a peaceful afternoon out on the water. Kayaking opportunities abound, and kayak rental companies are spread out all over the Cape.

Sailing and boat trips are also available around the Cape, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot the occasional whale.

Hit the beach

Beach days are the perfect way to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the water. And in Cape Cod, every day can be a beach day. There are so many beaches in Cape Cod that no matter where you’re based, you’ll never be too far from a gorgeous stretch of sand with lapping waves.

Because the Cape is such a popular tourist destination, you’ll be able to find a variety of seaside activities, especially during peak season. So whether you’re hoping to relax or adventure by the sea, Cape Cod is the place for you.

Clubs and classes

With its rich history and the diversity of the nearby cities sparking creativity, Cape Cod is a culturally diverse area. There are choirs, art classes, art history classes, and library clubs where you can gather with other locals to socialize and show off your creativity.

If you’re not into the arts, there’s still plenty to do. Try an astronomical society, a hiking club, volunteer opportunities, and classes teaching all sorts of skills.

Cape Cod: The Perfect Place to Live

Living in Cape Cod is a dream that can be made a reality. The laid-back lifestyle, sweeping beaches, and lush landscapes make the Cape a paradise to live in.

Living in Cape Cod gives you the best of both worlds. During the colder months, you get the Cape’s beauty all to yourself.

One of the most magical times in Cape Cod is in September. All of the tourists have gone back to work or school, and you can enjoy everything the Cape has to offer without the crowds. Residents take to the local restaurants, walk the now-quiet beaches, and remember why they chose to live in Cape Cod in the first place.

And, of course, during the summers, you get to soak up the sun and waves and enjoy the vacation-worthy vibe of the Cape.

Moving to Cape Cod? – Here’s How To Avoid The Most Common Home Security Mistakes – Get a FREE Quote from Alarm New England →

Home security is a booming business. Whether you’re looking to install a brand-new home security system or want to upgrade your existing one, it can be intimidating to look for the best system for your needs.

If you take a look at recent home security system reviews, you’ll most likely find that national companies are usually rated as the best. But we think you should also take a look at local companies too.

That’s why we’ve taken the time to evaluate and highlight home security systems worth taking a look at in the Connecticut area.

How We Choose the Best Home Security Systems

Each household has different security needs, depending on your location and home situation. Some families will benefit from more comprehensive security solutions, while others just need the basics.

And apart from features, there are other considerations to keep in mind when choosing between the various home security systems in Connecticut, including price, reliability, and customer service.

Pricing

Many people focus on what features they can include with their home security system. Yet the most critical aspect of whether a company is the right fit for you is if you can afford to pay for its services.

Security companies usually operate on one of two models: upfront costs and a small monthly monitoring fee, or the equipment costs with a monthly payment.

Some companies will lock you into long contracts, while others operate on a month-to-month basis. Making sense of all these pricing plans is essential to know if a home security system is affordable in the long term.

Customer service

Customer service describes how the company interacts with its customers, from sales all the way to support and even response time. Some companies take better care of their clients than others, and it is an important consideration when choosing your security company.

Features and equipment

Home security has become increasingly high-tech, and many security companies offer wireless home security systems in addition to traditional offerings. If you have a smart home, you’ll appreciate a security system that can link into your existing network, allowing you to configure settings and control your security remotely.

Having high-tech security equipment is meaningless if you can’t operate it. We focus on ease of use and reliability when evaluating a security company’s equipment offerings.

Let’s explore some of the home security system options available in Connecticut.

Alarm New England

Alarm New England is one of the best-known home security systems in Connecticut; we offer small business customer service and high-tech security solutions to Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.

We uses the same high-quality security equipment as ADT and place a significant emphasis on customer satisfaction, offering one of the best security system solutions in the state.

Pricing

We combine equipment and monitoring into three plans. The basic plan contains a basic security system with a control panel and sensors, while the more advanced plans include home automation and security cameras.

Unlike other companies that require you to sign a long-term contract, we offer flexible alternatives, including a month-to-month plan for monitoring.

Also, if you have an existing security system, we can send out a technician to activate your system and migrate it to our monitoring service for minimal cost.

Customer service

We prides ourselves on excellent customer support. Our online reviews show just how important customer satisfaction is to us.

We’re always willing to work with customers to find the best security solution for their needs.

Features and equipment

Our base plan offers relatively simple equipment and Wi-Fi monitoring. But as you move to the more advanced plans, you get more sophisticated equipment options.

The options include home automation and a variety of camera options, from indoor and outdoor cameras to state-of-the-art doorbell cameras.

If you sign up for the midrange plan, you also get access to our interactive app. The app gives you plenty of remote security options, including security alerts and the ability to remotely control door locks and garage doors.

ADT

ADT is one of the large home security systems in Connecticut (and in the country). It has been in the business for a long time and understands what its clients want from a home security system.

ADT generally aims its offerings at home users who want the basics, but it also has options for people who want more advanced equipment and features.

Pricing

ADT offers a Protect Your Home package that combines equipment and monitoring for a monthly fee. The basic option includes a system panel, motion sensor, wireless sensors, and a remote at $28 a month.

The most advanced plan comes with everything ADT offers, including home automation integration and video surveillance around $60 per month.

The main drawback to ADT’s competitive pricing is that they are known to raise rates within the contract. If you want to cancel the contract before the end of the two years, you have to pay a hefty early termination fee.

If you’re not satisfied and ADT doesn’t resolve your concerns, you may get money back for the installation and monitoring service paid back.

Customer Service

ADT is known for having mixed customer service, but this largely depends on your region. Some dealers have been known to be pushy and manipulative, so make sure you check online reviews in your area.

ADT offers a 24/7 emergency service line for any emergencies you may have, as well as a dedicated customer service line that operates on usual business hours. You can also contact customer service via email and live chat, and in general, the staff is helpful and quick to resolve issues.

Features and Equipment

ADT offers equipment ranging from basic to advanced, depending on your needs. The most straightforward package comes with the base system, a control panel, wireless sensors, and one motion sensor.

You can upgrade this equipment and customize your home security solution by adding several additional sensors, door locks, or even a keychain remote control.

ADT’s main selling point is its affordable monthly price as well as the ability to customize your plan to suit your particular needs.

Vivint

Vivint has made its name as the premier smart home security system by offering high-end equipment and comprehensive home protection.

Pricing

Vivint offers two options when it comes to financing your home security system. You can pay up front for one of its equipment packages and pay a monthly monitoring fee. Or you can finance your equipment by using its Monthly Flex Pay system, which adds a certain amount onto your monthly bill.

Vivint’s equipment and monthly payments aren’t cheap, as you’re paying for high-quality tech and home automation. The simplest equipment package goes for $700 and includes a touchscreen panel and your choice of six sensors.

The basic monthly monitoring fee is $30, and if you want to add automation features, the price goes up to $50 per month.

Vivint also has the most extended contract term with a standard contract lasting five years, giving you more than enough time to pay off your equipment fees. You can negotiate for a shorter contract, which may raise your monthly rates but will offer you a bit more flexibility.

Customer service

Vivint has generated a negative reputation due to its pushy and manipulative sales tactics, which led to several court cases in multiple states.

It has tried to mend its ways, and its customer service is currently trying to address several issues. Vivint has become more transparent in its pricing, and customer service is more responsive than ever.

Vivint still has a way to go. But it offers numerous ways to contact customer service, including telephone, email, and live chat. The company has an extensive amount of documentation on its website to address common concerns and problems.

Features and equipment

As expected, Vivint offers a whole host of high-tech security options that look sleek and provide comprehensive security solutions. It has a wide range of sensors, from smoke detectors to freeze sensors, as well as indoor and outdoor cameras with wide lenses to prevent blind spots.

Vivint also has automated door locks as well as remote thermostat and light controls.

Unfortunately for the DIY-inclined, Vivint requires that a trained technician install all its equipment. While the installation is complex, using Vivint’s system is quite simple.

The touchscreen control panel takes note of how you use it and learns to adapt and predict what you want. It uses large icons and text, and the entire experience is intuitive and easy to learn.

Cox

Cox is another communications company that has entered into the home automation market, and its Homelife service offers home security and home automation services in an easy to understand plan.

Pricing

Cox offers two plans for home security. The first is $30 per month if you bundle it with another Cox service or $40 per month stand-alone. It includes monitoring and essential security equipment, as well as some home automation features such as security alerts to your phone and the ability to remotely control your door locks.

The more advanced plan is $45 when bundled with another Cox service or $55 stand-alone. In addition to everything you get with the cheaper plan, you also get remote live video monitoring, smart plugs, smart light switches, and a smart thermostat.

Unfortunately, there are also several additional costs that you incur when you sign up with Cox Homelife, including installation and activation fees. If you want to protect your equipment, you have to pay an additional $5 per month.

Customer service

Cox has a much better customer service experience than some of its other telecom competitors, and the same holds true for its Homelife service. There are multiple ways to get in touch with Cox, including live chat, phone, or social media.

It also has a service portal with FAQ and a forum on its website to answer any simple or complex questions that you may have.

Features and equipment

Cox Homelife uses a smartphone app as a control panel, and you can access all the standard security and automation features from there. While there are two main Homelife plans, you can customize them to some extent by adding additional sensors and other automation equipment.

Be careful, though. You can only purchase some equipment if you have the advanced plan, such as the smart thermostat and HD camera.

Overall, the equipment is simple to use as it’s all centrally controlled through the smartphone app, which lays out the security and automation features clearly and concisely. Even users who don’t like smart technology will find this easy and intuitive to use.

ProtectAmerica

If you’re looking for simple home security systems in Connecticut, ProtectAmerica may have the right package for you. Its focus is on simplicity and ease of use. The company lets you install the security equipment yourself, allowing you to customize your security setup.

Whether you’re deciding between home security systems with cameras or a more straightforward, basic system, ProtectAmerica will have something for you.

Pricing

ProtectAmerica’s pricing works by charging a standard equipment fee of $99 and then offering a three-year contract in which you pay for monitoring.

Unlike other security companies, the price you pay for monitoring depends on whether you connect to the emergency line via landline or 4G; 4G is the more reliable but more expensive option.

Be aware that you don’t own the equipment. If you cancel your contract, you’ll have to return the equipment.

Customer service

ProtectAmerica has a lot of fine print when it comes to its pricing and contracts. Many ex-users are disappointed to find out that they need to give 60 days’ notice before canceling the contract and that ProtectAmerica auto-renews contracts without notifying the user.

If you have read your contract carefully, you may find ProtectAmerica’s customer service to be excellent otherwise. Apart from the 24/7 emergency line, there is a customer service hotline that operates during business hours and on weekends. You can also contact customer service via email and live chat.

Features and equipment

All of ProtectAmerica’s equipment is proprietary, though its control panel can identify other smart devices made by other brands. It has the usual array of control panels, sensors, and video cameras, and ProtectAmerica also offers a remote control for the alarm that comes with a panic button. You can also use the smartphone app to control your home.

Some users worry about DIY installation. But because each sensor is wireless, it’s just a case of sticking the equipment to the wall with the removable adhesive and connecting it to the control panel.

Choosing the Best Home Security System for Your Needs

You now have a good idea of your options when it comes to home security systems in Connecticut. Select the system and company that fits your needs, and enjoy the added peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is safe and secure.

Do you wish your home security system had more smart home features, like controlling the thermostat from an app, turning on lights, or seeing video footage of the goings-on around your home?

Do you wonder why you’re paying high monthly fees and getting terrible customer service from your current alarm system monitoring company?

You deserve better. And it’s out there.

SWITCH TO ALARM NEW ENGLAND

Depending on the manufacturer of your security equipment, other companies may be able to monitor your alarm system even if they weren’t the original installers. Alarm monitoring using your existing system? You’ll find it here. This blog post will guide you through the process of switching alarm monitoring companies.

When You Can Reuse Your Current Security Equipment

If you’ve decided to switch alarm monitoring companies, you first need to determine whether you can reuse your current security equipment or whether you’ll need to install a new system. In most cases, it’s fairly straightforward to use your existing security system and switch to a new alarm monitoring company.

Switching to a better home security monitoring service is called a system takeover. The benefit is that—if it’s relatively modern and compatible—you can keep the equipment you already own rather than buy a completely new system.

How does a system takeover work?

If you’re considering a system takeover, first schedule a time to speak with your new alarm monitoring company over the phone so that their employees better understand how they can help.

For example, when you call Alarm New England, the main details we’ll go over are the layout of the property, the type of equipment currently in place, and if you want to add anything onto the system.

Let’s say you live in a small apartment in downtown Boston on the ground floor with a main entry door, a glass sliding back door, and six windows. In which case we’d probably recommend two door sensors, two or three glassbreak detectors depending on the location of said windows, and eight window sensors.

Once we get a good sense of your situation, we’ll send one of our trained technicians to your home to assess your equipment. In many cases, we can switch you over for minimal upfront cost, depending on if the system needs an extra part to function correctly or if you’d like to add on to your system.

If your system is quite old, we recommend you replace the main brain of the system altogether so that you can upgrade it to be compatible with the latest smart home security.

To help you save, we’ll give you a free video doorbell camera with your security system when you design your system with us over the phone or on our website.

With over 50 years of experience serving residents and businesses in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, we know the importance of building strong relationships with our customers that last many years. Our goal is not to sell you equipment you don’t really need, but to make sure you are properly protected and that your system can communicate with our alarm monitoring service in an emergency.

If we exhaust all other avenues to get your current system to communicate reliably with our central monitoring station, we’ll suggest equipment options tailored to your New England home and lifestyle and give you time to consider them.

If we can’t take over your system for whatever reason and you don’t want to replace the equipment, we’ll shake hands and be on our way.

SWITCH ALARM COMPANIES NOW!

When You Need to Replace Your Security System to Switch Monitoring Companies

Using your existing security system is ideal if the system is modern and compatible with your new alarm monitoring company. However, there are some cases when you’ll need to replace your entire home security system in order to switch to a new monitoring company.

1. Your alarm system is proprietary.

If your alarm system is proprietary, your system is programmed to function correctly only as long as you continue paying the original company that sold it to you.

For example, no other company can monitor a SimpliSafe, Cox, Brinks Home, or Xfinity Home system. These companies designed their equipment this way to make customers stay with them longer, because switching monitoring companies means hundreds of dollars down the drain and a huge headache for customers.

We know how expensive replacing proprietary technology can be. That’s why we only sell equipment that all alarm companies can monitor so that you can reuse the same system indefinitely. If you ever want more features, you can just add on individual pieces of equipment for a relatively low price.

2. Your alarm system is too old to provide adequate protection.

Many houses and apartments still use systems that were manufactured decades ago, severely limiting your options for sensors, security cameras, and smart home upgrades.

An outdated system also presents a security risk to you. Older equipment relies on landlines to communicate with the central monitoring station, and smart burglars will cut those landlines before breaking in. If your system is too outdated, we recommend replacing it to provide better security.

3. Your alarm company changed the installer code.

When our technicians reprogram the equipment, we need to punch in an installer code to access the back end of the alarm’s programming. We know the default codes, but if your alarm company changed the code, it’s much more difficult for us to reprogram your system.

It’s possible that even if your equipment is compatible, your previous alarm company has effectively locked out other companies from taking over your existing equipment.

If you find yourself in this situation, ask your previous alarm company for the installer code to see if they’ll provide it to you. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to replace the equipment in order to switch to a new monitoring company.

4. Read your monitoring contract.

If you currently have a monitored system, you probably signed an agreement with the company stating that you’ll stay with them for a certain amount of time. You want to be sure you’re not on a contract when you make the switch—otherwise, you’ll have to pay more.

This contract is what enables many alarm companies to reduce the upfront cost of your equipment and let you pay off the difference over several months as part of the alarm monitoring agreement. (A contract of 36 months is the industry standard.)

If you can’t find your contract, ask your alarm company to send over a digital copy via email or a physical copy to your mailbox.

When reviewing your current alarm monitoring contract, take note of the following:

• Expiration date
• Renewal (is it automatic?)
• Early contract cancellation fees or penalties

5. Find a local alarm monitoring company.

Local monitoring matters.

Ask anyone who’s shopped around at multiple alarm companies and tested them out. They’ll say the same thing: Go local.

Whenever you buy professional-grade home security systems, you want the reassurance that customer service will be able to help you if things don’t work as they should. You want customer service that treats you as valued individual, not a number.

As you search for a new local alarm company, consider these three factors:

• Where is it based? Does the company handle its own monitoring, or does it outsource it? Is the company locally based?
  
• Call the company. Does the company answer the phone immediately, or are you pushed into an automated system without an option to speak to someone?
  
• Read the reviews. Reading customer reviews is a valid way to evaluate what current and past customers are saying about the experiences they had working with the company.
  

You should also ask these questions about any potential alarm monitoring company:

• How much will you have to pay per month?
• How long does the monitoring contract last?
• Can the company walk you through any additional fees in addition to the upfront equipment costs and monitoring subscription?
• What certifications does the central station have? Will you ever need to contact it for any reason?
• Can you reuse your equipment with another alarm company?

6. Contact your new alarm company.

Once you’ve found the right security monitoring provider, get in contact via phone or email.

Schedule an appointment with your new provider. If you know what system you currently have installed, it’s easy for the security provider to know whether they can simply reprogram it or if it will need a new panel.

Check for an insurance discount. Many insurance companies understand the value of having a home security system and offer discounts for homeowners who install monitored security systems.

Call your insurance provider to find out how much of a discount they offer for a monitored security system. Your savings could be as high as 15-20 percent when you have a burglar and fire alarm system monitored by a UL-Listed central monitoring station.

Finding the Right New Alarm Monitoring Company

Finding a local alarm company may take a bit more work on your part, and many people settle for using a larger national brand. But the effort can be well worth your time.

In large cities like Boston, it’s easy to find local providers in your area using services like Yelp or Google Maps. Conveniently, these services also feature customer reviews to help you narrow down your search and save time.

Rather than pay inflated prices to support national advertising and marketing costs, you may find that you can get superior service, top-of-the-line equipment, and local monitoring from a local provider.

If you want the best security company in your area, we encourage you to shop around and ask your sales rep the right questions. Spending those few extra minutes to understand your security company will save you a lot of headache and disappointment down the line.

Want to learn more about security systems before you make a decision? Contact us at 857-445-4010 and we’ll answer any questions you have.

SWITCH TO ALARM NEW ENGLAND

Mold is a type of fungi found both indoors and outdoors. Mold is not a welcome sight for homeowners: It produces nasty smells, and some varieties of mold can even cause health problems. Black mold is one such variety.

You have probably come across black mold (also known by its biological name Stachybotrys chartarum) in an old house, or maybe even in your own home.

Black mold is a type of fungus, and although it appears to be black at a distance, it can appear dark green upon closer examination. It is those black marks you see on walls, particularly low down near the skirting.

Room walls are an excellent breeding ground for black mold as it loves surfaces that contain cellulose, such as plasterboard, chipboard, or paper. Mold grows in damp, warm conditions. That is why mold is more common in shower rooms, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

On its own, black mold is not dangerous, but it can release harmful toxins into the environment, affecting air quality and causing health problems for people who inhale those toxins.

That’s why it is important to make sure your home isn’t a breeding ground for black mold. Here’s how to identify black mold in your home, remove it, and prevent it from growing in the first place.

Identifying Black Mold in Your Home

One way of identifying black mold is from its color. Other molds you might observe are usually different colors, but black mold is distinctively black. Black mold grows slowly and only takes on its distinctive black color when it is fully grown. It can sometimes be mistaken for dirt or dust due to its color.

Another big giveaway of black mold growth is the smell: It has a distinctive musty odor, even if you can’t see it.

How to Test for Black Mold

There are now a plethora of mold test kits on the market to help you determine if you have black mold.

With some kits, you can get a result within minutes. With other test kits, you send the results away for analysis by qualified labs, which is likely to get more accurate results.

In general, home testing kits are not reliable enough to make any conclusions. We recommend that you get in touch with experts to determine if you have black mold present in your home, especially if you or other people in your home are experiencing any symptoms or health effects that may be caused by mold.

Symptoms and Health Effects from Black Mold

Mold exposure affects people differently. One person living in a home with black mold may have reactions, while another person living in the same space may experience no physical effects.

Some people have genetic predispositions or immune system responses that make them more sensitive to mold than others. Age and general health can also be factors: The elderly and young children are most affected by exposure to black mold.

The symptoms of exposure to black mold range from fatigue, headaches or migraines, mood swings, tremors, eye irritation, sneezing, and coughing. One of the problems identifying a reaction to black mold is that the symptoms are also common in other respiratory disorders.

If mold exposure or a mold allergy is suspected, a doctor may order allergy tests. An allergy test might involve dropping liquid containing the mold onto the skin and monitoring the reaction.

Preventing and Removing Black Mold

Black mold needs four things to develop and grow:

• Oxygen
• A water source
• A food source
• Optimal growing conditions

With these four factors in mind, there are certain areas in the home where black mold is more likely to accumulate.

Where to Look for Black Mold

Any drywall areas might be a breeding ground for black mold, as well as areas that are wooden and cellulose-rich. Look closely, because the mold might be growing behind the wall.

The basement is probably naturally damper than other areas of your home, making it an excellent breeding ground for mold. Look around water pipes if you have any, as they tend to sweat in a humid environment. If you have a washer or dryer in the basement, check the inlet and outlet pipes for both.

Another common place for black mold growth is in the shower room or bathroom. Avoid using any carpet in a bathroom, as that would be a perfect home for mold infestation. Bath mats outside the shower or around the toilet should be washed regularly for this reason.

Check the shower stall, at the bottom of shower curtains, and in the crevices in built-in shower screens because moisture can collect behind them.

Finally, another area of the home susceptible to mold growth is in the attic. Look for any moisture collecting in the attic space and signs of frost that indicates water collection.

Black Mold Removal

If you find black mold, you can usually clean it with water and bleach. Keep in mind that bleach will kill surface mold, but it will not get a mold that has penetrated wood. After the bleach and water has dried, apply a fungicidal product.

If your mold infestation is greater than 10 meters in length or height, you should call a professional mold inspector. For mold infestations this extensive, it takes professional expertise to determine the proper course of action.

How to Prevent Black Mold

You can take several steps in your home to prevent black mold.

• Keep humidity levels in your home as low as possible. Use an air conditioner or humidifier to control humidity.
• Ensure your home has enough ventilation. Make sure your clothes dryer vents outside the building.
• Fix any leaks in your roof or leaking pipes so mold does not have the moisture to grow.
• Clean bathroom and showers regularly with mold-killing products.
• Remove or replace carpets that have been soaked and can’t dry properly.
• Don’t use carpets in rooms exposed to water and moisture, like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or damp basements.