Buying cheap security cameras? You should realize the real cost

Are you a homeowner who is planning to install a surveillance camera system to improve the security of your home but on a tight budget? Or are you the kind of person who favors cheaper products so you can save money? Well, there are both disadvantages and benefits of buying cheap products, particularly if you are low on cash. In this article, however, we will discuss the real cost of buying cheap security cameras.

First, some basic questions that you should ask yourself before advancing your plan to buy and install a security system in your house.

Some basic questions and answers before buying a security system

Why do I need a security system?

You should determine firsthand if you really need a surveillance camera system to help monitor your home against possible intruders. Look at the most vulnerable areas of your home or business to identify how best to protect them.

In fact, take advantage first of simple methods and strategies that you can implement to increase the security of your home. Kevin Brasler, also an official of Consumers’ Checkbook, argued that burglars and thieves can enter your home through very uneventful means most of the time. They usually take advantage of unlocked doors or windows that can be easily jarred open. Secure these possible entry points first as part of a comprehensive security plan.

Then, consult in person or online with a home security expert for guidance regarding the best system for your needs.

Are there new technologies for home security on the market?

You should determine the best available products in the market before deciding on the best option for your security requirements. There are already many home security products on the market as cable and telecommunications companies have started to venture into this segment, in addition to home automation. When choosing a system, however, you should select a product that has proven, good results rather than a new, untested one.

How to decide or select the right installer for my security system?

When choosing the installer for your system, you should conduct a thorough research on the reputation of the company. You should check for complaints, as well as reviews with the Better Business Bureau. You can also ask for referrals from your friends or close relatives who have already had systems installed. Many of today’s systems are made for the DIY’er and can be set up by the homeowner.

Do I need to subscribe to a system monitoring service?

This is an important question that you should ask because there are already various products on the market that have mobile and remote monitoring capabilities. With these capabilities, you can opt to monitor your system yourself or have a 24 hour system monitoring subscription. Monitoring companies cost money and that should be taken into consideration with any system.

Disadvantages of buying “Cheap” security cameras for your home

After deciding that you really need to install a security system in your house, you now have to decide what system to buy. One important reminder to keep in mind is that you should not favor price over quality when buying a product like this. Here are some reasons why:

You could end up paying more in the long term due to such reasons as breakdowns and shorter service life of your system. Cheap security cameras use cheaper parts and will fail more often…
Your system may not reliably serve its purpose of providing uninterrupted monitoring of your home and properties as low-cost products tend to break down or malfunction easily due to the low quality of materials or components used in their production.
The footage captured by your system can turn out to be very poor, such that you will not be able to reliably determine the identity of the intruders who ransacked your home. Moreover, the courts may not accept the footage as evidence against the criminals during the prosecution due to their poor quality.
You are compromising the security of your home, properties, and family members. Installing an unreliable system can be costly on your part. Imagine if a fire broke out in your home and your system fails to send you a notification due to poor quality, all your possession may turn into ashes, along with your cheap system. Even worse is if a family member is injured in the process.

Benefits of installing a security system of high quality

Here are some benefits of installing a high-quality security system for your home:

They usually have warranties and have longer service life than low-cost ones. Reputable companies offer longer and more complete warranties for their products. Buying them will ensure that you will be getting your money’s worth. A high-quality system will also have longer and more reliable service life than cheap ones, thus, providing a better return on your investment.

High-quality systems are more efficient and dependable than low-cost ones. When installing a high-quality system, you will have more peace of mind as you expect the system to function efficiently and reliably and keep maintenance costs low. You can also avoid such hassles as false alarms and malfunctions.

Better safety for your home, properties, and family members. Installing a high-quality security system will ensure that any threats to the safety of your property, as well as yourself and family members, will be efficiently detected. With efficient and timely detection, you can immediately take the necessary action to suppress or resolve those threats.

When deciding on which security system to install for your home or business, it may be tempting to save money on cheap security cameras. However, when all things are considered, making a larger initial investment will save you money in the long run. You will get a better return on your investment in lower maintenance costs, fewer malfunctions and better protection for you and your family. When it comes to security, don’t go cheap, nor a fake one!