While most homeowners invest in security systems to prevent the theft of valuables and to keep their families safe, there is another advantage to these systems that they may not have considered. Several recent studies have shown that having a in place, whether it is for protection or for environmental monitoring, can save homeowners money that offers them quite a big return on their initial investment of installation and monthly monitoring fees.
The loss or theft of valuables in the home is the greatest money saver when it comes to these alarm systems.
According to 2009 FBI data, homeowners lost on average $2,096 in property per burglary offense, with total loss estimated at $4.6 billion that year. Security systems minimize your risk of intrusion and theft, keeping your valuables safe,” says Art Miller of Vector Security.
Having a also works in tandem with homeowner’s insurance in this way, as not only will it protect a homeowner from having to pay out of pocket when they carry a high deductible and a burglary occurs, but many insurance companies also offer discounts when these systems are in place.
Environmental monitoring can save homeowners even more when it detects and helps them prevent floods, leaks, and burst pipes. These controls are especially helpful for people who live in areas that suffer from cold and bitter winters. Detecting these problems before they happen can prevent losses that might otherwise climb into the thousands of dollars, especially when flooding occurs.
According to FloodSmart.gov, a one-inch flood in a 2,000 square foot home could cost you $20,920 in losses,” says Miller.
Not only can water damage the floors, foundation, and furniture in a home, but the mold that forms afterwards can cause further damage and even health issues when it is left untreated.
Homeowners may also see a reduction in their energy bills when a and environmental monitoring is in place because it allows them to set timers that turn their outdoor lighting off and on at certain times of the day, allowing the home to become more energy efficient. When lights are left on for a long period of time when no one is home, this costs hundreds of dollars a year in wasted electricity. Timers that control a home’s lighting and thermostat can lower electric bills and save energy, giving homeowners a solid return on their monthly monitoring investment.
Emily Stevenson
Author – Emily is a 10 year veteran of the home security industry working in sales. She was a top sales person at leading home security companies, but has shifted her focus to working on helping consumers make the right decisions.