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"Checkbook" Magazine Tests Home Security Systems |
WASHINGTON — Is an electronic
home security system
the right way to help you keep your home safe and secure?
CONSUMERS' CHECKBOOK
Long-Distance Phone Plans Carpet Cleaners Health Clubs Roofers Dental Plans Dog
Kennels Shoe Repairs Garden Centers Home Security Washington Consumers' Checkbook
recently put monitored
security systems to the test.
The magazine reports that the cost of installing
a home monitoring
system varies widely. Quotes for one job ranged from $1,740 to $2,651 for
installation. The cost of the monthly service also varied. For three years of
service, the total cost ranged from $720 to $1044.
Checkbook suggests shopping
around for a new service every few years. Most companies will work with existing
components in a house, but some companies require you to use their electronics
and will even remove the system if the contract is not renewed. Based on consumer
ratings, Checkbook rated the top home
security companies in the D.C area. They include:
- Allied Alarm Specialists
- Guardian Protection Service
- Hofheimer Security
- InterAmerican Security
- Potomac Security Systems
- Security Services
There are also some simple things you can
do to protect your home without going through the expense of installing a home
security system. Some of the tips include:
- Secure all doors with good deadbolt
locks.
- Secure all windows that could be accessible from the outside.
- Set up
outdoor and indoor timed or motion-sensitive lighting systems.
- Improve habits
that affect home security, such as o consistently locking doors.
- Keeping track
of keys.
- Having newspapers and mail collected while away from home.
- Keeping valuable items out of sight.
Source: NBC4
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