How home security is changing
New technology is allowing consumers more ways to customize their home security systems. With this new technology, people can access their security systems in ways once thought impossible. Even better, this technology is spreading over into other areas of life.Everybody knows what it’s like to worry about leaving the lights on or the alarm off after leaving the house. For those who actually have a reason to be nervous, there’s a number of companies that give you mobile access over your alarm system. Alarm.com offers their own security system which is connected wirelessly to GSM cell towers. This allows users to access the system from home with an Alarm.com app. If you have cameras set up, you can even watch video on your mobile device (even if you just need to see what the kids are getting up to while you’re away). iControl is a third-party developer that currently supports GE Security and Honeywell systems, but is adding ADT soon. Along with alarm system access, iControl (through their ConnectedLife software platform) also gives users remote control over their thermostat, lighting, and even electronic door locks.Lighting and heating aren’t the only systems that have gone wireless. New fire and carbon monoxide detectors can now communicate with security system main panels and automatically alert authorities whenever any danger is detected. Even better, the newest fire detectors, like Honeywell’s Ademco Wireless Heat Detector, don’t detect smoke (note the name). Instead, they work by sensing heat, making them more efficient and more palatable for those cooks not gifted with the culinary gene.