Using Your Home Security System Effectively

If you’re thinking about purchasing a home security system in Iowa, you’re likely wondering how to get the most bang for your buck. While installing a home security system is the first step of the process, the second step in keeping your home safe is to ensure you and your family are using the system properly.

Most systems available today are pretty user-friendly, including those from Honeywell and Lutron. In fact, both brands have created systems that everyone in your family can use. To make sure you’re getting the most efficiency from your home security system, be sure to refer to the tips below:

Know the difference between “Arm Away” and “Arm Stay”

More often than not, homeowners don’t know or understand the difference between the “Arm Away” and “Arm Stay” settings. If you’re in the habit of leaving your system on “Arm Stay,” you may want to consider the following information.

When your system is set to “Arm Away,” everything is armed, including the motion sensors. Any motion inside your home can then set off the alarm unless it’s created by something weighing less than 100 pounds. This is reassuring if you have an active dog or cat at home. Be sure to use this setting when no one is at home.

“Arm Stay” on the other hand means that your window and door sensors are alarmed but your motion sensors won’t trigger the alarm. To increase efficiency, be sure to turn your system on this setting before you go to bed. This way you’re protected, but you won’t be setting off your own home alarm if you get out of bed for a glass of water in the middle of the night.

A lot of homeowners develop the habit of throwing their system into the “Arm Stay” setting whether someone’s home or not. To make sure you’re getting the most out of your system, use the proper settings for when you’re leaving or arriving. If you have a dog that’s over 100 pounds, try locking him in a room where there are no motion sensors. This way your best friend can’t set off the motion sensor when you’re away.

Create user accounts for those who are coming and going

To make things as easy as possible, you’re going to want to add more than one user to your security system account. Doing this will make it easier to see who is coming and going. If you have more than one child, give them each their own code so you can see who is getting their from school and when. 

Utilize your cell phone

Honeywell systems allow you to download an app from your smartphone that will allow you to see who is arriving and who is leaving your home. You don’t have the stop at threshold either. Enjoy the control that comes with regulating lights, garage doors, and more.