It seems everything can be bought, maintained, and interacted with online in today’s world. Widespread electrical availability and internet access mean almost anyone in the UK can access the information they need at any given moment.
When a home security system comes with online features and access options, it’s called a smart home security system. So, what’s the point? What are the benefits of a smart home security system, and why would you get one?
We’ll tell you all about them in this article, explaining why they can be so beneficial to protecting your household.
What is a smart home security system?
A smart home security system is connected to the internet. Compared to a standard network, it’ll have features such as:
- Online notifications and management
- Real-time CCTV
- General remote control
It’ll contain broadly the same features as a basic home security system. You’ll have your locks, alarms, motion, entry and smash sensors, CCTV cameras, entry requirements, security lighting, etc.
Although there are many benefits to a smart home security system, they can all be summarised through the phrase ‘complete peace of mind’. Since you can check anything at any time, you never need to worry about what’s going on at your property.
Benefits of a smart home security system
There are several benefits to a smart security home. However, we should mention that it’s dependent on a reliable, reasonably fast internet connection. According to the Office of National Statistics, for the vast majority of the UK, this shouldn’t be a problem – 96% of households had internet access in early 2020.
Read more about how a smart home security system could benefit you in the following sections.
Immediate alerts
With a standard alarm system, a sensor trips, alerting your security company. They then usually telephone you or your listed backup contact to establish whether the alert is genuine or not. This delay can mean minutes or hours pass before you even hear about the potential problem.
A smart security system is different. It’ll immediately alert you via an automated process (these days, it’s often an app). By cutting out this delay, you’ll be able to react more quickly to these situations.
Real-time monitoring
CCTV and/or audio sensors have historically been used to deter thieves and burglars by recording their every move. If you notice any suspicious activity, you can check the system’s stored film to see if there’s a potential threat. After a break-in, you may find that the CCTV has recorded the person’s exact actions and maybe even their face.
This is great, but with a smart home CCTV system, you can keep an eye on any developments in real-time, monitoring your home whenever you need. These are particularly effective when combined with motion detectors. You could think of it as a baby monitor for your entire property.
Preventative measures
In a similar way to real-time monitoring, a smart home security system can help make your home safer for vulnerable inhabitants like babies, young children, elderly people and ill or frail individuals. Sensors can be placed to warn homeowners when someone is going near a dangerous area (such as a pool or pond) or opening the front door, for example.
Without an internet connection, the overall network would simply be too slow to actively prevent risky scenarios before they even happen.
‘Fake’ your presence more believably
When you’re out for the night or jetting away on holiday, you’ll probably set your lights on a timer to trick would-be burglars into staying away from your home. You might do other things too, like asking a neighbour to park on your drive and collect your post.
A smart system can control your home from anywhere. Turn your lights on and off whenever you feel like it with a simple tap or click. Change the interior temperature or turn on certain appliances to really reinforce the image. Plus, playing with your lights is a fun gimmick.
How Gray’s Locksmiths in Nottingham can help
Based in Nottingham and serving customers across the East Midlands, Gray’s Locksmiths has been keeping the local population safe and secure for decades. We’re proud to be approved members of the MLA (the Master Locksmiths Association), showcasing our commitment to the highest quality service and products.
Smart home security systems are relatively new protective measures for houses – it’s only in the past ten or fifteen years that internet usage has become widespread throughout the country. However, now that most of us have it, it makes perfect sense to utilise it.
We’re always happy to have a commitment-free, friendly chat about your circumstances and whether a smart system is right for you. Take the first step by contacting us at hello@grayslocksmiths.org or phoning us on 0115 942 2315. We look forward to hearing from you.