First time homeowners face a multitude of questions, amongst which are questions regarding home security systems. Once homeowners decide to install a burglar alarm, however, even more questions tend to arise. In an attempt to assist homeowners, some of the most common questions about alarm systems are listed below.

One very obvious question is whether or not an alarm system will work in the event of a power outage. This is a very good question, as during a power outage, it is quite normal for homeowners to feel vulnerable, and a seemingly good time for thieves to strike. However, the reality is that almost every alarm system installed today has a backup battery designed for use in the event of a power outage. Additionally, many companies monitor the backup battery status, and will notify homeowners when the battery needs to be changed. Most backup batteries will last several hours, so unless power is out for an extended amount of time, homeowners will have security coverage.

A second question that homeowners commonly pose is whether or not their home alarm systems will operate in the event of the loss of a telephone line. Again, this is an important question, especially given the fact that many people rely more on cellular phones today than they do on landlines, meaning that at times, they may not even realize when a phone line is down. Also of concern is the possibility that a burglar may be able to cut a phone line prior to entering a home. Most companies offer the option of a built in cellular system on alarms, meaning that service is not dependent on a land line. This is especially important for alarm systems that utilize VOIP technology, meaning that they utilize an internet connection rather than a phone line. Also of note is the possibility of a direct radio connection, which is offered by many companies. In these instances a direct radio connection is established between the home and security center in the event that an alarm is triggered, including if there is a power or phone line outage. While cellular and radio connections are available from most companies, this is an important question for homeowners to ask before signing a security agreement.

Many homeowners already have dogs their home when they consider a security system. Not wanting to coop their pets up all day, another common question is whether or not the family dog will trigger an alarm system every time he or she gets up to watch the squirrels, bark at the mailman, or get a drink of water. The answer to this question really depends on the type, or more importantly the size, of the family dog. Most alarm systems can be set to ignore the interior movement of pets weighing less than 60 pounds, with others offering scanning patterns that avoid areas of the house within which animals run free. As was the previous question regarding phone lines, the question of pet detection is an important one for homeowners to ask before they choose a security monitoring company.