Community Forums

scrowell52 · 07-16-2017, 09:29 PM

We are about to leave our stick and brick for an extended trip and are thinking about having a home
alarm installed, but am overwhelmed over the number of available companies. Our house is in Oregon. I'm hoping that others will share their experiences...the good, bad and ugly. Also what devices do you use, ie cameras, motion sensors, glass break sensors, windows and doors, etc

vsheetz · 07-16-2017, 10:44 PM

Same here. We retired last year. Time to start traveling. Installed SimpleSafe system. Easy to self install - all wireless. Cellular connection so no tie in to phone system needed. Flexible sensor options. Arm/disarm from keypad, key fob, or smartphone. Camera(s) work very well - it's great being able to see the house. Low cost monitoring.

We have contact sensors on the doors, to include the workshop which is about 100' distant from the house. One motion sensor which covers our very open floorplan living area. One camera covering the same view as the motion sensor.

Cypressloser · 07-17-2017, 05:56 PM

I can't recommend a company but we've been through this (house finally sold after 2 years on the market). Talk to neighbors, friends, family in the area who they deal with and if they are happy with the service they receive. Ask neighbors if they can keep an eye on the property and leave keys with somebody you trust. Cameras and full control over the system through your cellphone is a given. The alarm system should be hardwired with battery backup and not rely on a landline connection. Beside intrusion alarm (provider must notify police immediately when the alarm goes off) you need water, fire and frost warning in case the furnace fails in the winter. Also, you should notify your insurance company of your plans or else they will void your policy. Your premium will literally skyrocket regardless unless somebody lives in the house while you're gone.

TJFogelberg · 07-17-2017, 06:37 PM

Just installed Simplisafe. (See my post under technology), Very happy so far.

scrowell52 · 07-17-2017, 06:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TJFogelberg

Just installed Simplisafe. (See my post under technology), Very happy so far.

Sounds interesting...will check it out

Ready2Travel · 07-17-2017, 06:58 PM

X2 on Simplisafe. Installed it in my business a year and a half ago, glad I did. Costs less than most systems, easy to install, and has worked flawlessly.

vsheetz · 07-17-2017, 07:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vsheetz

Same here. We retired last year. Time to start traveling. Installed SimpleSafe system. Easy to self install - all wireless. Cellular connection so no tie in to phone system needed. Flexible sensor options. Arm/disarm from keypad, key fob, or smartphone. Camera(s) work very well - it's great being able to see the house. Low cost monitoring.

We have contact sensors on the doors, to include the workshop which is about 100' distant from the house. One motion sensor which covers our very open floorplan living area. One camera covering the same view as the motion sensor.

SimpliSafe, not SimpleSafe.

Unicorn Driver · 07-17-2017, 07:57 PM

I use frontpoint. A bit pricey but great equipment and service.

I have a combination of door, window, motion and glass break sensors, also have water sensors, fire and smoke. Also have Wireless barrery operated cameras.

I get a 10% off my home insurance for having it.

Isaac-1 · 07-18-2017, 09:54 PM

Be ware of most home alarm companies, they operate by having relatively low installation fees, then lock you into their plan with a long term contract, many of which auto-renew.