Home Security Systems (Chicago: price, money, companies)

[Spandau]

We're talking about getting a monitored home security system for our house. Anyone have experience with security companies in Chicago? Are there any other options than ADT and Brinks? Thanks!

[ctyrider]

All these "monitoring" companies that charge you monthly fees are an utter waste of money in my opinion. They just call 911 on your behalf, not exactly adding a lot of value.

Get a security system that calls your cell phone. You can call police just the same as ADT, but without a silly monthly monitoring fee.

[JoeyPants]

Originally Posted by ctyrider

All these "monitoring" companies that charge you monthly fees are an utter waste of money in my opinion. They just call 911 on your behalf, not exactly adding a lot of value.

Get a security system that calls your cell phone. You can call police just the same as ADT, but without a silly monthly monitoring fee.

Actually the monitoring companies do more then call 911. They set up the equipment and call you first prior to calling the police. The self monitoring systems that call your cell phone are often DYI systems. I originally had one of these systems, but I have more confidence in a professional system. You can't put a price on piece of mind.

[wiz561]

We bought a Smarthome (Visonic) SecureLinc system from Smarthome. We've had it for about 6 months and like it because it adds peace of mind.

Just a heads up, it is a LITTLE difficult to install. I consider myself pretty technically savy, and it took a few hours to get everything to my liking. What I love about it is that you can make whatever changes you want to it without having to call (or pay) somebody else, and there's no monthly fee. If there's an alarm, it can call your cell and have you ack the alarm, and gives you the option to listen in.

Good Luck!