Security Alarms

[ballrific]

any suggestions for local companies? Someone suggested Crawford? but I couldn't find anything on them. What is a standard cost associated with a home security alarm?

 

[gecko]

Get a dog....they work for food.

Seriously, I don't know what the installation will cost you but my home is monitored for break in and fire for $23.95 per month with Time Warner Security.

I "test" them from time to time and the response (calling to verify the alarm) here in The Woodlands has been very good.

I'm not sure if the system will prevent any break-ins. For me...its nice to be able to look over at that little red light in the middle of the night when you hear bumps and noises. It reassures that the house is secure.

 

[wolfman]

I have a Brinks alarm. They have a basic setup that they will sell you for an introductory rate. Usually you will get a couple of key pads, a motion sensor, 3 or 4 door sensors. I think that offer that for 50 or $100. It is usually another $50 per sensor after that. The monthly monitoring is around $30. THey have had pretty good response when I have tripped the alarm in the past.
In addition, I have a pretty good watch dog in the back yard too.

 

[Mack Tripper]

Isn't there a poster on here with a home security company?

 

[Bernard]

I just have one of those little ADT signs by my front door. The cost is zero (the sign came with the house).

Bernard

 

[CaboWabo]

I have a monitored alarm system, but I don't put those stickers on my windows, etc. Although I may be overestimating their abilities, that just tells a thief to cut the phone line before he breaks in and he won't have to worry about the monitorinig company calling the fuzz. I could upgrade my system to prevent this, but it costs a lot more.

 

[Fancy Pants]

I have Brinks. The best thing you can do is to get them to install the siren outside. Mine has 120 decibels that wakes up the whole neighborhood. Chances are pretty slim that anyone will break into your house in the middle of the night, so you want to cover your *** on the times there is no one home. Someone trips your system with the siren inside and somebody might hear. Alarm goes off with the siren outside and everybody can hear it. The sales rep will probably tell you that's illegal or against company policy, just tell him you'll go with someone else. He'll cave, because he wants the sale.

 

[Campus Loop(y)]

Yes, there is a poster here that has an ADT company. I use them and am very happy w/ my system, the installation and everything about them. PM me if you want info. I highly recommend them.

 

[chitwood]

I have Hall Security who is local in Austin. I've used them since 1998 and am very pleased. Very responsive when you call.

 

[Cancer Man]

I think ours is ADT but I'm not certain.

I am certain of another problem. My DSL signal is interrupted if I plug in the phone line to the alarm. Naturally, the microfilters that come with DSL modems are for regular-sized phone jacks, not Ethernet-size male parts. Two years ago, I wasn't able to pick up a microfilter that would work at RadioShack or anywhere else that I know of -- has that changed? Any ideas? I'd like to be able to plug in the alarm again.

 

[wherzwaldo]

In reply to:

---

---

 

[Campus Loop(y)]

This will be a great party. I hear the parting gifts are tremendous.

 

[Agent007]

I'll bring the (crow) bar, and you bring the liquor...

 

[Bernard]

In reply to:

---

---

 

[AustinTejasFan]

Almost all homeowners insurance companies give discounts for monitored alarms and dead bolt locks. Usually 15% and 5% respectively.

For alarm credit, system must be monitored, all openings must be contacted, and must have outside alarm. For dead bolt credit, must have 1" throw and no breakable glass within 40" unless you have double keyed locks.

Just call your local police department (sheriff if in county) for a free inspection. Certificate good for 3 years and can be renewed for additional 3 years, after which you need a new inspection.

It's free!

For more information: The Link