Smart devices have become increasingly popular over the past few years, and companies like Google, Amazon and Nest are really pushing the boundaries of smart technology.
Nowadays, you can change the colour and intensity of light in a room using a simple voice command, you can change your home's temperature from your smartwatch, and you can even ask Google to tell you a joke! But can smart devices reliably protect your home in the event of a burglary or fire?
Today we're going to take at some of the potential problems people overlook when they purchase a smart security system.
Potential for set-up error
Most smart security devices come with detailed instructions that are easy to follow. That being said, if you miss a step or set something up incorrectly, you could be leaving your home vulnerable to an intruder or fire! As someone who's never set up a home security system before, you may not know the best place to position your cameras, your motion sensors or your fire alarm. In comparison, a professional technician has the expertise to make sure your security system is installed, set up & functioning properly!
No support from technicians
One of the most common problems homeowners face when they choose smart security systems is the lack of technical support. There are a lot of self-proclaimed technophobes out there who get drawn into the idea of a 'simple' smart device with a pretty interface but struggle to rectify problems that occur later down the line. This is a situation you don't want to find yourself in if you're relying on your smart devices for your home security!
When you choose a professional home security system, you have a team of expert technicians behind you that will be on hand to help you if a problem arises. A reputable installer should be able to guide you through a quick-fix over the phone, and if they can't help you remotely, they're likely to send someone out to help with the problem in person.
In comparison, you'll probably be sat on hold waiting to talk to an operative at your smart device company for hours before you get any kind of assistance, plus, they're less likely to send someone out to help you if they can't resolve the problem!
Over functional & under-performing
When browsing for a smart security device online, you might come across some companies that claim their devices can do it all! You're paying hundreds of pounds for a device that claims it can protect your home, play music and control your lamp - but can it do all of these things effectively?
In our experience, smart devices that claim to do it all are very appealing but don't always live up to expectations. Paying the equivalent amount of money for a good security system that uses the most up-to-date security hardware and software is going to give you far better protection than a device that's built to do a million things.
Smartphone monitoring
Smart security systems are appealing because they give you the flexibility to monitor your home remotely. Few people realise that most professional security systems have this functionality too! Speak to our team to find out more.
While smartphone monitoring is a blessing for some people, there are others who find that constant access to their home security system through their smartphone becomes more of a hindrance than a help. You're essentially signing yourself up for around-the-clock monitoring, which can really affect your daily life.
Imagine this scenario, you're in an important work meeting and your smartwatch alerts you that there's someone in the house. Of course, you're going to drop what you're doing and try to try and resolve the issue! If it's a false alarm (eg. the dog has triggered the sensors) then you've disrupted your workflow and become highly stressed for no reason. If it turns out to be a real fire or burglary, there's a lot of responsibility on your shoulders to call the emergency services or race home to deal with it!
With a professional security system, you can apply for a 24/7 maintenance contract that gives you a sense of assurance that your home is safe, without the responsibility.
Fire Alarm Maintenance > CCTV Monitoring >
For some households, smart devices may be a perfectly acceptable security solution. However, there are a few things you should consider before you put the security of your home into the hands of high-tech smart devices. We'd always recommend a professional home security system over a smart device if you want to be confident that your home is safe. If you have any questions, give us a call on 029 20 753 251.
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Read More: What to Look For in a Home Security System
