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home_security_systems [2025.01.09 08:38] – Steve Isenberghome_security_systems [2025.04.11 13:13] (current) – [SimpliSafe System] Steve Isenberg
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-=====Home Alarm Security System Guide (from ChatGPT)=====+=====Home Alarm Security System Guide===== 
 +Much of the information in this section comes from ChatGPT.
  
 ==== 1. Assess Your Needs and Home Layout ==== ==== 1. Assess Your Needs and Home Layout ====
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 ==== 5. Costs ==== ==== 5. Costs ====
  
-  * **Upfront Costs**: Includes equipment, installation fees, and possible upfront subscription charges. DIY systems often have lower upfront costs. +  * **Upfront Costs**: Includes equipment costs, installation fees, and possible upfront subscription charges. DIY systems often have lower upfront costs. 
-  * **Ongoing Monitoring Fees**: Professional monitoring costs typically range from $10 to $60 per month.+  * **Ongoing Monitoring Fees**: Professional monitoring costs typically range from $10 to $60 per month, depending on the equipment you have and the extent of monitoring you want.
   * **Additional Fees**: Watch for potential add-on costs for cameras, sensors, or advanced features.   * **Additional Fees**: Watch for potential add-on costs for cameras, sensors, or advanced features.
  
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   * **Frontpoint**: Offers DIY security systems with monitoring options. Known for good customer service and high-quality equipment.   * **Frontpoint**: Offers DIY security systems with monitoring options. Known for good customer service and high-quality equipment.
   * **Ring Alarm**: Offers both DIY systems and professional monitoring through Amazon. Budget-friendly and integrates well with Ring’s doorbell cameras and other smart devices.   * **Ring Alarm**: Offers both DIY systems and professional monitoring through Amazon. Budget-friendly and integrates well with Ring’s doorbell cameras and other smart devices.
 +  * **Wyze** Allows self-monitoring without monthly fees; can arm/disarm remotely; can be expanded; has backup battery; works over Wifi with cell backup
 +  * **Ring** Allows self-monitoring without monthly fees; can arm/disarm remotely; can be expanded; has backup battery; works over Wifi with cell backup
  
 ==== 7. DIY vs. Professional Installation ==== ==== 7. DIY vs. Professional Installation ====
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   * **Homeowner’s Insurance Discounts**: Many insurers offer discounts for homes with monitored security systems.   * **Homeowner’s Insurance Discounts**: Many insurers offer discounts for homes with monitored security systems.
   * **Permit Requirements**: Some cities or counties require a permit for monitored alarm systems. Check local regulations to avoid fines.   * **Permit Requirements**: Some cities or counties require a permit for monitored alarm systems. Check local regulations to avoid fines.
 +
 +All commercial and residential alarm systems in Lexington MA must be registered with the Police Department. Use the [[http://lexingtonma.gov/formcenter/police-22/alarm-registration-form-86|registration form]]
 +
 +
  
 ==== Final Thoughts ==== ==== Final Thoughts ====
  
 Your choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and whether you prefer professional installation and monitoring or the flexibility of a DIY system. Start by assessing the level of protection you want, then research companies and compare equipment to find the best fit for your home. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and whether you prefer professional installation and monitoring or the flexibility of a DIY system. Start by assessing the level of protection you want, then research companies and compare equipment to find the best fit for your home.
 +
 +And this on [[https://lexingtonma.gov/454/Home-Protection|Protecting your home]] from the Lexington town website.
 +
 +===== Alternatives to Alarm Systems =====
 +
 +==== House Watch Services ====
 +
 +  * [Lex resident comment] These services are usually provided by small local businesses that help to maintain the security and safety of a home while you are away, either traveling or staying at another home. They offer a range of coverage from a simple on-call “key holder” to regular weekly walk-throughs, watering plants, (re)stocking refrigerators, etc.\\ > All these businesses must be vetted and registered with the state police, and there are a limited number of options depending on your location. We use two services for our two homes, one in Lexington and one in Gloucester. They have been very helpful when a smoke alarm goes off (broken alarm sensor) or a when storm blows through and we want to be sure no serious damage has occured. They even spotted a frozen faucet for us once.\\ > In Lexington, we use [[https://house-watcher.com/|The HouseWatchers]], but there is at least one other service if you google “house watch services lexington ma”.
 +
 +===== 24/7 Monitoring Services for Home Security =====
 +(Thanks to Aldi AI)
 +
 +There are several reputable online companies that offer **24/7 monitoring services** for home security, ensuring that authorities are alerted in case of an emergency. Below is a comparison of some of the top options available in 2025:
 +
 +==== 1. ADT ====
 +  * **Overview**: One of the oldest and most recognized names in home security.
 +  * **Monitoring**: Professional monitoring with rapid response times.
 +  * **Features**: Offers a wide range of equipment and smart home integration.
 +  * **Cost**: Typically higher than some competitors, but known for reliability.
 +
 +==== 2. SimpliSafe ====
 +  * **Overview**: Known for its easy setup and flexibility.
 +  * **Monitoring**: 24/7 professional monitoring available.
 +  * **Features**: No long-term contracts, customizable systems, and affordable pricing.
 +  * **Cost**: Competitive pricing, starting around **$9.99/month** for monitoring.
 +
 +==== 3. Vivint ====
 +  * **Overview**: Focuses on smart home technology and automation.
 +  * **Monitoring**: In-house 24/7 monitoring.
 +  * **Features**: Advanced equipment, including smart locks and cameras.
 +  * **Cost**: Higher initial investment, but offers comprehensive services.
 +
 +==== 4. Brinks Home Security ====
 +  * **Overview**: Offers a mix of traditional and smart home security solutions.
 +  * **Monitoring**: 24/7 professional monitoring with quick response.
 +  * **Features**: Flexible contracts and a variety of equipment options.
 +  * **Cost**: Mid-range pricing, with options for DIY or professional installation.
 +
 +==== 5. Ring Alarm ====
 +  * **Overview**: Known for its DIY approach and integration with other Ring products.
 +  * **Monitoring**: Professional monitoring available through Ring Protect.
 +  * **Features**: Easy to use, with a focus on video doorbells and cameras.
 +  * **Cost**: Affordable monitoring plans starting at **$10/month**.
 +
 +==== 6. Frontpoint ====
 +  * **Overview**: Emphasizes customer service and user-friendly systems.
 +  * **Monitoring**: 24/7 monitoring with a focus on customer satisfaction.
 +  * **Features**: Customizable packages and no long-term contracts.
 +  * **Cost**: Slightly higher than some DIY options, but offers quality service.
 +
 +==== 7. Alder Security ====
 +  * **Overview**: Offers a mix of professional and DIY monitoring.
 +  * **Monitoring**: 24/7 monitoring with a focus on quick response.
 +  * **Features**: Customizable systems and equipment.
 +  * **Cost**: Competitive pricing with flexible contracts.
 +
 +==== 8. Cove ====
 +  * **Overview**: A newer player in the market with a focus on affordability.
 +  * **Monitoring**: 24/7 professional monitoring available.
 +  * **Features**: Easy setup and customizable options.
 +  * **Cost**: One of the more affordable options, starting around **$14.99/month**.
 +
 +==== 9. abode ====
 +  * **Overview**: Focuses on DIY home security with smart home integration.
 +  * **Monitoring**: Optional professional monitoring available.
 +  * **Features**: Great for tech-savvy users who want flexibility.
 +  * **Cost**: Competitive pricing with various plans.
 +
 +==== Comparison Summary ====
 +  * Best for Reliability: **ADT**
 +  * Best for Flexibility: **SimpliSafe**
 +  * Best for Smart Home Integration: **Vivint**
 +  * Best for DIY Options: **Ring Alarm**
 +  * Best Customer Service: **Frontpoint**
 +
 +
 +For a  system without video surveillance, here's a refined look at the companies from the previous list that focus more on basic alarm monitoring:
 +
 +  * **SimpliSafe**: Great for basic monitoring without the need for cameras.
 +  * **ADT**: Offers reliable monitoring services even without video.
 +  * **Brinks Home Security**: Provides a good range of monitoring options without requiring video.
 +  * **Cove**: Focuses on affordability and can work well without video surveillance.
 +//Each of these companies has its strengths, so the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences.// 
 +
 +===Monitoring plan pricing===
 +//I'm not sure if these companies will monitor a system not sold and installed by them.//
 +
 +^ Company               ^ URL                                                              ^ Starting cost                                       ^ Comments                          ^
 +| ADT                   | https://adt.com/                                                 | ? need to call them (tel:855-908-4461) to find out  |                                   |
 +| Brinks Home Security  | https://www.security.org/home-security-systems/brinks/           | $39.99/mo                                           |                                   |
 +| Cove                  | https://www.covesmart.com/monitored-security/                    | need to call them (tel:855-268-3669) to find out    |                                   |
 +| Frontpoint            | https://www.frontpointsecurity.com/                              | $14.99 or $1.06/day=$49.20/mo                       | you can build your system online  |
 +| SimpliSafe            | [[https://SimpliSafe.com/]]                                      | $0.33/day - $2.66/day\\ $9.99/mo - $79.80/mo       | you can build your system online  |
 +| Vivint                | https://www.vivint.com/resources/article/vivint-monthly-pricing  | $40/mo                                              |                                   |
 +
 +=====Additional comparison information=====
 +This comparison from Claude.AI
 +
 +==== Base Requirements ====
 +  * 5 entry sensors (3 doors, 2 windows)
 +  * 2 motion sensors
 +  * Base station
 +  * Keypad
 +  * Mobile app connectivity
 +
 +----
 +
 +==== Wyze System ====
 +**Initial Cost:** ~$280
 +
 +== Equipment Costs ==
 +  * Base station with keypad: $90
 +  * Entry sensors: $85 (5 × $17)
 +  * Motion sensors: $40 (2 × $20)
 +  * Siren: $30
 +  * Mobile app: Free
 +  * Self-monitoring: Free
 +
 +**Advantages**
 +  * Lowest upfront cost
 +  * No required monthly fees
 +  * Easy DIY installation
 +  * Good app interface
 +
 +**Disadvantages**
 +  * Newer to security market
 +  * Less robust than traditional systems
 +  * Limited integration options
 +
 +----
 +
 +==== Ring System ====
 +**Initial Cost:** ~$300
 +
 +== Equipment Costs ==
 +  * 8-piece kit (includes base, keypad, 4 sensors): $250
 +  * Additional entry sensor: $20
 +  * Additional motion sensor: $30
 +  * Mobile app: Free
 +  * Self-monitoring: Free
 +
 +**Advantages**
 +  * Amazon integration
 +  * Well-established brand
 +  * Easy DIY installation
 +  * Good camera options
 +
 +**Disadvantages**
 +  * Requires good WiFi coverage
 +  * Base kit includes some items you may not need
 +
 +----
 +
 +==== SimpliSafe System ====
 +**Initial Cost:** ~$340
 +
 +== Equipment Costs ==
 +  * Base kit (includes base, keypad, 1 sensor): $250
 +  * Additional entry sensors: $60 (4 × $15)
 +  * Additional motion sensor: $30
 +
 +== Additional Costs ==
 +  * No mobile app access without $10/month subscription
 +  * No smartphone alerts without subscription
 +
 +**Advantages**
 +  * High-quality equipment
 +  * Easy DIY installation
 +  * Good customer support
 +
 +**Disadvantages**
 +  * Limited functionality without monthly plan
 +  * Higher upfront cost
 +  * Not ideal for self-monitoring
 +
 +== SimpliSafe Features Without a Monitoring Plan ==
 +//This from SimpliSafe 1/25/2025//
 +
 +  * Receive notifications for break-ins: You can receive push notifications through the SimpliSafe app.
 +  * Arm/Disarm the system: You can remotely arm and disarm your system using the SimpliSafe app.
 +  * View live video feed: You can view the live video feed from your cameras through the app.
 +
 +However, without a monitoring plan, you won't have access to features like 24/7 emergency dispatch or unlimited camera recordings. 
 +
 +----
 +
 +This from ChatGPT, comparing the Simplisafe system using self-monitoring ($9.99/month) or no plan (free).  See also [[https://support.simplisafe.com/page/monitoring-plans|Simplisafe Plans page]]
 +
 +^ **Feature**                                 ^ **Self-Monitoring ($9.99/mo)**              ^ **No Plan (Free)**           ^
 +| **System Arming & Disarming**               | ✅ **Works via Keypad & App**               | ✅ **Keypad Only** (No App)  |
 +| **Mobile App Access**                       | ✅ Yes – Control system remotely            | 🚫 No – No remote control    |
 +| **Push Notifications (App Alerts)**         | ✅ Yes – Arming, disarming, & alarm events  | 🚫 No alerts at all          |
 +| **Email Notifications**                     | ✅ Yes                                      | 🚫 No                        |
 +| **SMS/Text Notification for Alarm**.        | ✅ Yes                                      | ✅ Yes                       |
 +| **SMS or Phone Call Alerts**                | 🚫 No (Only available in $29.99/mo plan)    | 🚫 No                        |
 +| **Break-In Alarm (Siren Sounds)**           | ✅ Yes                                      | ✅ Yes                       |
 +| **Event History Log in App**                | ✅ Yes                                      | 🚫 No                        |
 +| **Smart Home Integration** (Alexa, Google)  | 🚫 No (Requires Core or Pro plan)           | 🚫 No                        |
 +| **Live Camera Viewing**                     | ✅ Yes                                      | ✅ Yes                       |
 +| **Camera Motion Detection Alerts**          | ✅ Yes                                      | 🚫 No                        |
 +| **Camera Cloud Recording** (Up to 30 days)  | ✅ Yes – Video clips saved                  | 🚫 No – Live view only       |
 +| **Sensor & Device Status in App**           | ✅ Yes                                      | 🚫 No                        |
 +| **Wi-Fi & Power Failure Notifications**     | ✅ Yes                                      | 🚫 No                        |
 +| **Cellular Backup (if Wi-Fi fails)**        | 🚫 No (Only in Pro plan)                    | 🚫 No                        |
 +| **Emergency Dispatch (Police/Fire)**        | 🚫 No (Only in Std, Core, & Pro plans)      | 🚫 No                        |
 +
 +Key Takeaways
 +
 +  * With Self-Monitoring ($9.99/mo):
 +    * Alerts and Notifications: You receive real-time alerts on your smartphone when an alarm is triggered, allowing you to respond quickly.
 +    * Remote Access: You can control your system remotely via the SimpliSafe app, including arming/disarming the system and checking the status of your devices.
 +    * Video Monitoring: If you have cameras, you can view live footage and recorded clips directly from your app.
 +    * No professional monitoring: You can monitor your system 24/7 at any time, giving you peace of mind.
 +    * No Contracts: You can cancel or change your plan at any time without penalties.
 +
 +  * With No Plan (Free): 
 +    * Limited Functionality: Without any plan, your system will only function as a local alarm. This means it will sound an alarm if a sensor is triggered, but you won’t receive any notifications.
 +    * No Remote Access: You won’t be able to control your system remotely or check its status through an app.
 +    * No Alerts: You won’t receive any alerts on your phone, which means you may not know if an alarm has been triggered until you return home.
 +    * Basic Alarm Features: The base station will make noise when an event occurs, but that’s the extent of its functionality.  You won't know about the alarm unless you hear the siren.
 +    * Cameras only allow live viewing -- no recordings or motion alerts
 +
 +  * Standard plan ($21.90/mo) as compared to Self-Monitoring: 
 +    * 24/7 Professional Monitoring: Your system is monitored around the clock by trained professionals who can respond to emergencies.
 +    * Immediate Emergency Response: If an alarm is triggered, the monitoring center will contact emergency services on your behalf.
 +    * Cellular Backup: Your system will remain connected even if your internet goes down, ensuring continuous monitoring.
 +    * Video Verification: If an alarm is triggered, the monitoring center can view video footage to assess the situation before contacting authorities.
 +    * Smart Home Integration: Enhanced compatibility with smart home devices, allowing for more automation and control.
 +    * No Contracts: You can cancel or change your plan at any time without penalties.
 +
 +
 +----
 +
 +==== Vivint System ====
 +**Initial Cost:** $599+ (professional installation required)
 +
 +== System Costs ==
 +  * Equipment for specified needs: ~$800
 +  * Monthly Cost: Required professional monitoring ($30-50/month)
 +  * Contract: 4-5 years typically required
 +
 +**Advantages**
 +  * Premium equipment
 +  * Professional installation
 +  * Full home automation
 +
 +**Disadvantages**
 +  * Highest cost
 +  * No DIY option
 +  * Long-term contract required
 +  * Cannot self-monitor
 +
 +==== Recommendation ====
 +Based on requirements (DIY installation, self-monitoring, budget around $300, smartphone alerts):
 +
 +  * **Best Options:** Wyze or Ring
 +  * **Alternative:** SimpliSafe (higher cost, maybe (need to check) monthly fees for smartphone features)
 +  * **Not Recommended:** Vivint (doesn't match requirements)
  
 ===== Lexington Resident Recommendations and Comments ===== ===== Lexington Resident Recommendations and Comments =====
  
-(none yet)+===1/11/2025 Jeff S=== 
 +I found a company online ([[https://www.alarmsystemstore.com/|Alarm System Store]]) that sold alarm components direct for DIYers. They were very helpful via their support chat and I ended up buying a new panel, keypads and some motion sensors from them. I also installed a plug-in device called **Envisalink** from [[https://www.eyezon.com/|Eyezon company]]. That device plugs into the alarm panel and home Ethernet and allows control via a phone app or web URL. It basically emulates another keypad in the system and as such it has control over all functions. 
 + 
 +Installation was pretty straightforward, but I found some mistakes in the initial alarm wiring that I had to address. I also decided to use Eyezon (the company that  made the plugin device) for their alarm monitoring service. The basic rate is $8.50/month. I added on their cellular communicator device as well in case the home network goes down. I think there's an additional $5/month charge to support that but it seemed worthwhile. 
 + 
 +I'm sure there are newer options available and there's always SimpliSafe, but I thought using my hardwired motion detectors and door sensors was better than constantly changing batteries. So far, I'm happy with the setup.
home_security_systems.1736440701.txt.gz · Last modified: 2025.01.09 08:38 by Steve Isenberg