If you have questions, we have answers. Whether you have a quick question about smoke alarms or a more complex question about how alarms actually work, you can find everything you want to know about home safety here.
Probably. Unfortunetly the alarm industry has been plagued with fly by night “security companies” that are only in business to get customers to sign a contract so they can in turn sell the contract to a large national branded company. Most likely, you will have a difficult time getting service when you need it, and they will charge $75.00+ per hour for service.First, you should conduct research on the company that is offering the free installation. Find out if they are a members of the Electronic Security Association, check out consumer reviews and verify licensing (if applicable in your city, county or state). Before you agree to an installation, read the contract thoroughly. Look for the contract length, equipment fees, contract termination fees and automatic renewal terms. Ask the company questions if you feel unsure about the conditions. A credible company will take time to address your concerns and won’t rush you through the process.
Do I really need a security system?
Yes. If you ever leave your home, even for a short period of time, such as a trip to the grocery store, you need an alarm system. Intruders are typically in and out of a home within 10 minutes. An alarm system can help keep your home protected. Security systems also bring peace of mind knowing your home is protected 24/7. Plus with Alarm Star’s mobile app, you can check on your home at any time.
What happens if I accidentally set off my alarm?
If you have a security system from Alarm Star, your system will ask you: IS THIS A FALSE ALARM? YES or NO. If you select YES, than the alarm system will send a CANCEL signal to the Central Station and nothing will happen. BUT if you select NO, the Central Station will react to the signal as though it is an actual break in. If you are unable to disable your system during the allotted “safe period,” a signal will be sent to your monitoring center. To cut down on the amount of false dispatches, your monitoring company will contact you via phone to verify an emergency situation before sending an emergency responder.
Will my alarm work if there is a power outage?
Yes, Alarm Star systems are equipped with 24-hour backup batteries that activate immediately after a power loss. The alarm system will also notify the Central Station in case of power loss, and the system can also notify you via SMS text or to your smart phone using the Alarm Star mobile APP.
Do alarm systems actually prevent break ins?
Absolutely. Having an alarm system installed in your home can help reduce the risk of a home invasion. In a study that conducted interviews with convicted criminals, nine out of ten intruders said they would avoid a home that had an alarm system in place. Another way you can deter intruders is by displaying an easy-to-see yard sign and window decals from Alarm Star. Remember, intruders can spot a phony yard sign, so don’t assume it can protect your home as well as an alarm system. Get the crime statistcs on home burglaries.
I want to protect my home against fire. What are my options?
Home fire alarms installed and monitored by Alarm Star can greatly increase the chance of getting your family out safely and salvaging your home in the event of a fire. Working smoke detectors save lives, so please make sure that your smoke detectors are in good working order and change batteries once a year if you have non-monitored smoke detectors.
Do I need a monitored alarm system?
A monitored security system is definitley the best fire/burglar protection that you can get and at around $1.00 per day, very affordable. But at Alarm Star, we do not believe in a “one size fits all solution,” so your security system will be designed to fit what your home or business needs.
Am I going to be locked into a 3-5 year contract?
Some customers like the convenience of paying less up front for their security systems and paying a little more per month on a contract basis. At Alarm Star, we give you the option of paying less up front with a signed contract or having a system installed with no contract. The choice is yours, we believe that our service and integrity will keep you as our customer.