Insider Tips: The Best Home Security System to Stop Intruders

Here’s how to use advanced house security alarm system technology to discourage intruders from entering your home and endangering your loved ones.

There are roughly 3,062 burglaries every day in the United States. A top-rated home security system works as both a blocker and an alert mechanism to quickly detect and address any unauthorized attempts at entry.

Fortunately, today’s alarm systems feature a wide array of modern advancements, ranging from real-time alerts and remote monitoring to advanced sensor technology and smart home integration. These innovative features not only offer robust security around the clock but also enhance peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

With so many different good home security systems to choose from, it can be daunting to determine which one best fits your needs. That’s why our team of security specialists has compiled the top insider tips on what sets the best home security systems apart from the rest.

Basics of Alarms

First and foremost, it’s important to understand the fundamental aspects of alarm systems. This way, you can better evaluate various brands and systems to select one that offers the right balance of features and scalability.

Generally speaking, alarms consist of the following core features:

• Central control panel (communicates with sensors/cameras, triggers alarms)
• Keypad (usually a numbered keypad, which allows you to arm/disarm, and interact with system)
• Radio communicator (connects system to a Central Station)
• Indoor and outdoor cameras
• Sensors
• Alarm sirens
• Monitoring services

A reliable alarm system should, at the very least, include all of the above features in order to provide timely alerts and comprehensive security protection for your home.

Positioning Alarms

Securing entry points like doors and windows has become an absolute necessity, as these are primary targets for criminals and intruders. The best home burglar alarm systems should include door and window sensors, one being on the entry point itself and the other being placed on the frame. When the door or window is closed, the sensors create a closed circuit, which breaks when the entry points are opened. This triggers an alarm or a text notification, quickly alerting you of a break-in.

For additional security protection, consider adding bars or grills to specific windows, motion-activated lights to deter intruders, and tamper-resistant locks, like deadbolts, for doors.

Using Motion Detectors

Motion detectors are designed to detect movements within specific areas or zones, triggering alerts and providing real-time notifications when motion is detected. Some of the most common types of motion detectors are:

• Passive Infrared (PIR), which detects changes in infrared energy

• Microwave (MW), which emit microwave pulses and detects changes in the reflections of moving objects

• Dual Technology, which combines two or more types of detection methods

Regardless of which type of motion detector you choose, it’s important to strategically install them in a high-risk area or zone, like driveways or entryways. There should be no obstructions in the way (trees, landscaping, etc.) and the sensors should be positioned to cover the area in its entirety. Outdoor detectors should also be weather-resistant to ensure they remain functional during rain, snow, and hot and cold temperatures.

Dual Tech Motion Sensors in Unfinished Basements/Garages

Setting up alarm systems in unfinished basements and garages can pose a challenge due to temperature fluctuations and clutter obstructions. Considering this, it may be best to choose dual-tech motion detectors that combine passive infrared (PIR) and microwave (MW) sensors.

Using both sensors ensures that movements can be detected seamlessly and with greater reliability. For example, if PIR sensors are affected by drafts or temperature changes, microwave sensors will still be able to detect movements through clutter obstructions. Moreover, microwave sensors cover a wider area within an unfinished basement or garage, while PIR sensors are more effective within a confined range.

Glass Break Detectors

Glass break detectors are designed to detect the sound of breaking glass, which could signal a forced entry. When glass shatters, it makes a distinct audio frequency, and glass break detectors are programmed to recognize and trigger an alarm if the frequency is detected.

The most common types of glass break detectors are:

• Shock glass break sensors, which detect vibrations of breaking glass

• Acoustic glass break alarms, which detect the sound of broken glass instead of vibrations

• Dual glass break detectors, which detect both sound and vibrations of breaking glass

Glass break detectors should be installed near windows and doors with glass fixtures, among other key places our specialists may identify. If possible, the detectors should also be placed away from sources of loud noises or loud appliances to avoid triggering false alarms.

Strategic Placement of Devices

Strategic placement of security devices is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of a good home security system in stopping intruders. As a general rule of thumb, it’s important to keep the following in mind to ensure precise security coverage.

Make sure that all motion detectors have a clear line of sight and are not blocked by any objects, and are not installed in areas with frequent temperature fluctuations.

If possible, avoid installing motion detectors near heating vents or ceiling fans, as these tend to have frequent movements.

Install glass break sensors in locations that have minimal exposure to high noise levels.

Cover all entry and access points to avoid leaving gaps in your home security.

Be sure to frequently test and maintain security devices to ensure maximum effectiveness.

General Security will work with you to develop the best custom house security system with the most strategic placements of these devices.

Video Cameras

The best home security system is incomplete without video cameras to capture and record suspicious activity. Cameras come in all different types and sizes, but are generally categorized into the following:

• Wired indoor and outdoor cameras
• Wireless indoor and outdoor cameras
• Wire-free cameras
• Floodlight cameras
• Video doorbells

When choosing the right video camera for your security needs, it’s important to consider factors such as the camera’s resolution, night vision capabilities, durability, and integration with other devices. These features are often crucial in viewing or reviewing footage on your property in the best possible detail to identify threats and suspicious activity.

Top Home Security Systems From General Security

Our top priority is to listen closely to your security needs, potential needs, and budget, and to create the best home security system customized for your house and property. Our team of smart home security providers works with you in person and is always available close by, especially from our centralized alarm station providing 24-hour protection.
Contact us at 800-343-2250 to Request a Free Quote today!