Re: Which system is better?

[tourman <robercampbell@xxxxxxxxx>]

On Aug 31, 7:43=A0am, "O.B.McClintock" <f...@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
> We are modernizing our home and want a security system. =A0I am not
> familiar with a monitored system as we have always had just a local
> alarm in the past. Can I get some honest input from people with such a
> system as to reliability and response time. This will help me make a
> decision. I am considering Electrowatchman, A.D.T., and Brinks. Maybe
> you all know of better ones. Thank you very much !!!

RHC: Wow....that is a VERY loaded question!  Most of the members of
this group are small business owners and very much dislike the
overpriced, "cookie cutter" style response of the larger companies and
their monitoring stations. However, there is a lot more to this than
the "small guy / big guy" arguments. You may want to take a look at my
site where there is a load of information that might help you make a
buying decision that is right for you.

Your issue appears to be one of monitoring versus non-monitoring.
Except in certain unique situations, a monitored system ensures 24 hr
response to your alarm and is clearly superior. However, all companies
get their major revenue source from the monitoring, so you want to
make sure that you don't get involved in a long term contract at an
overpriced rate if you can avoid it (and you most certainly can with a
little local shopping). Here is the pricing structure as I have seen
it evolve over the last 15 years, at least in our area.

$9.99 per month, month to month contract, pay yearly in advance. This
is the domain of the "cream skimmers". Here you will get basic
monitoring but no service or warranty. When available, it is
subcontracted to local alarm companies in your area who will charge
you BIG TIME for their service. Perfect for the DIY'er who can
maintain his own system

$10 to $20 monthly, sometimes with a long term contract, warranty and
service (important) vary all over the map. This is the domain of a
majority of small companies who's service can vary from non existent
to superb.

$20 to $30 monthly, usually with a long term contract, often including
service or not, plus limited warranty. This is the domain of a lot of
medium to large sized companies with higher overheads. System price is
often reduced up front though, so contract is needed to cover costs
not recovered in the upfront installation costs.

$30 and above, always with a long term contract, service often extra
monthly, very limited warranty unless you pay for it in extra monthly.
This is the domain of the ADT's and Brink's of the world. Over the
longer term, this is usually MUCH more expensive to buy this way
unless you know to go shopping elsewhere when the initial term
contract is done. This is the also more the domain of the bullshit
artists who as salespeople will tell you anything to get your name on
an overpriced contract, so never sign on their initial visit. Shop
around and make your decision without someone breathing down your
neck. Get at least three quotes !

If you do get someone to takeover an existing system, ensure they
inspect it and bring it up to professional standards. There is a load
of junky systems out there due to poor installation practices which if
put on line as is, will cause no end of false alarms (which cost local
authorities big time, plus possibly get you a ticket ). If you opt for
a new system, check out their reputation with others who have their
systems installed. Once poorly installed, it's often very difficult to
"repair" due to internal wiring being hidden from view.

I hope my website gives you some other information which will assist.
And don't forget the physical security precautions necessary to keep
them out to start with, since alarms only warn "after the fact".
Remember the cardinal rule in any business...you get what you pay for
(and sometimes in our business you have to shop hard to get that at a
reasonable price as well....)

Also remember the other rule which seems to apply..."Those who
advertise the most often give you the least"....

Regards,

Bob Campbell
Home Security Metal Products
www.homemetal.com