Answering Your Home Security System Questions

A home security system is a network of devices designed to detect and alert you to threats like intrusions, fires, or floods. Sensors placed on doors, windows, and throughout your home communicate with a central control panel. When a sensor is triggered, the system sends an alert to you and, if you have professional monitoring, to a team that can dispatch emergency services.

Most systems include a control panel, door and window sensors, motion detectors, cameras, and a keypad or mobile app for arming and disarming. Many also offer environmental sensors for smoke, carbon monoxide, and water leaks. The right setup depends on your home’s layout and your specific concerns.

Pricing varies based on equipment, monitoring services, and installation. Basic DIY setups can start around a few hundred dollars, while professionally installed systems with advanced features and 24/7 monitoring typically range higher. It’s worth comparing options to find a balance between upfront investment and ongoing peace of mind.

Yes. Modern wireless technology has come a long way. Wireless systems are less vulnerable to cut wires and offer easier installation and flexibility. They run on battery backups and cellular connections, so even if your internet goes down, they keep working.

Most systems include battery backups that keep everything running during an outage. Cellular connections ensure alerts still reach you and your monitoring service, so you stay protected even during a blackout.

Absolutely. With a mobile app, you can arm or disarm your system, view live camera feeds, receive instant alerts, and even control smart home devices, all from wherever you are. It’s like having your whole security system right in your pocket.

Professional monitoring means a trained team watches over your system 24/7. If an alarm is triggered, they verify the threat and contact emergency services on your behalf. It adds a critical layer of protection, especially when you’re asleep, away, or unable to respond.

Yes. Many modern security systems integrate seamlessly with smart locks, lights, thermostats, and voice assistants. This lets you create routines, like locking doors and turning off lights when you arm the system.

Beyond intrusions, today’s systems can detect fires, carbon monoxide, flooding, and even glass breaks. Some advanced setups offer medical alert buttons for emergencies. The more comprehensive your system, the better protected you and your loved ones are.

Monthly tests are a good rule of thumb. Most systems let you run a quick check to ensure sensors, alarms, and communication pathways are functioning. Your monitoring service can walk you through the process if you’re unsure.

If you have professional monitoring, the team will contact you to verify the alarm. If they can’t reach you or confirm a threat, they’ll dispatch emergency services. If you’re self-monitoring, you’ll receive an alert on your phone and can decide how to respond.

Wireless systems are portable and can move with you. Wired systems are trickier, but many providers offer solutions to transfer service or credit toward a new setup at your next home. Contact our support team for any questions on moving your Alert 360 products.

Yes. Most motion sensors can be adjusted to ignore pets under a certain weight, so your furry friends won’t set off false alarms. Make sure to mention your pets during installation so the system is configured correctly.

DIY installation can be tempting because it might seem more cost-effective. Unfortunately, it often leads to poor results and improperly functioning systems. Professional installation ensures everything is placed optimally and tested thoroughly, giving you confidence that your system will perform when it matters most.

Consider your home’s size, layout, and your specific concerns, like whether you travel often or have valuables to protect. Think about whether you want professional monitoring or prefer self-monitoring. A completely free consultation with our professional security team can help you tailor a system to your needs.

With proper maintenance, most systems last 10 to 15 years. Components like sensors and cameras may need occasional replacement, but the core system remains reliable for years.

No. Most modern systems use cellular or internet connections, so you don’t need a landline. This also makes the system more secure, since phone lines can be easily disrupted.

Reputable providers use encryption and multi-factor authentication to protect your data. Always use strong, unique passwords and keep your app updated to ensure maximum security.

Most systems let you reset your password through the mobile app or by contacting customer support. It’s a quick process, and you’ll be back in control in no time.

Run a test mode through your control panel or app. This will check sensors, alarms, and communication pathways. Your monitoring service can verify the test on their end.

Check the battery first. If that doesn’t fix it, contact support for troubleshooting or a replacement. Most issues are simple fixes.

Most sensors use batteries that last one to three years. Your system will alert you when batteries are low, so you’ll know when it’s time to change them.

Disarm the system immediately and contact your monitoring service to cancel the dispatch if needed. Review what caused the false alarm. It could be a sensor that needs adjustment or a pet setting off motion detectors.

Many systems update automatically through the app or control panel. Check your settings periodically to ensure you’re running the latest version.

We offer 24/7 support. Keep our contact info handy, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or issues.

Most systems switch to a cellular backup, so you stay protected. You’ll receive an alert about the connectivity issue, and the system will reconnect once Wi-Fi is restored.

In most cases, the system resets automatically once power returns. If not, consult your manual or contact support for guidance.