Friday, January 31, 2020

Room-by-Room Guide to Home Automation

Home automation takes the mundane, day-to-day activities involved in managing your home and leaves them to a computer, freeing you up to kick back and relax. Once a staple of science fiction fantasies and luxury homes, over the past decade home automation has become a realistic option for the average American homeowner. With this in mind, the home-automation experts at SafeWise have put together a room-by-room guide to home automation with a brief history, explanation of common features, and projection of future trends unique to today’s home automation systems.

bedroom

Bedroom

Lights. Not only can you turn your lights on or off without getting up from the couch, but you can even control their color and brightness from anywhere with an Internet connection. Switch on your front porch light and the path lighting along your front walk before you leave the office, so you’re not fumbling around in the dark when you get home.

Thermostats. Make sure the temperature in your home is exactly how you want it, even if you’re in an airport half a world away. After a while, your home’s Learning Technology will start to understand your habits and will eventually adapt your indoor climate to match your preferences.

Motorized Control. Anything that moves can be controlled through home automation. Adjust the curtains, shades or blinds to keep the late afternoon sun out of your eyes without getting up. Fold up your Murphy bed without having to bend or stoop over.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors. Your home automation system can detect increased levels of carbon monoxide in the air and set off an alarm if you’re in danger. It’s a far more reliable method than the old, standalone detectors from the hardware store—you’ll never have to worry about the alarm failing because of a dead nine-volt battery.

Universal Remote. Dump all your clunky remote controls in the trash. You’ll be able to control all the systems in your home from a single controller—often your smart phone.

Piggy Bank Monitoring. You don’t have to break open that piggy bank to find out how much is inside it. Track your savings, and get alerts if anyone tries to shake loose a few coins.

living room

Living Room

Inter-Device Communication. All your devices—phone, laptop, TV, entertainment system—will be able to talk to each other, creating a seamlessly interconnected media and communications network inside your home.

Robotics. Teach your home how and when to clean itself by integrating robotic technology—like pool cleaners, window washers and Roombas—into your home automation system.

Motorized Control. Anything that moves can be controlled through home automation. Adjust the curtains, shades or blinds to keep the late afternoon sun out of your eyes without getting up. Fold up your Murphy bed without having to bend or stoop over.

Keys/Device Location. Forget where you left your keys? How about your phone? Not to worry—your house remembers. (They’re probably in your pocket. Go ahead and check.)

kitchen

Kitchen

Fitness/Health. Track and sync your weight loss progress across your devices to keep you motivated. But be careful—your fridge just might start tweeting about your late-night snacking habits.

Energy Management. Home automation is the perfect tool for managing your family’s power consumption and making your entire home more energy efficient. Automatically switch off lights and appliances when not in use or during specific times of the day. Stop heating or cooling an empty house all day long and opt for a smarter approach to indoor climate control.

Lights. Not only can you turn your lights on or off without getting up from the couch, but you can even control their color and brightness from anywhere with an Internet connection. Switch on your front porch light and the path lighting along your front walk before you leave the office, so you’re not fumbling around in the dark when you get home.

Egg Monitoring. Just how old are these eggs? Are they starting to go bad? Let your home track that for you, and never wonder again.

Music. Sharing a home with people who don’t share your musical taste? Listen to something different in every room, as your home automation system can easily integrate satellite radio and streaming music services for your family’s entertainment pleasure.

bathroom

Bathroom

Outlet Controls. Outlet controls allow you to integrate any of your home’s older, “dumb” lights or appliances into a new automation system. Turn lights on and off remotely. Manage smaller, window-style air conditioner units. Monitor the amount of energy these appliances use, so you’ll know whether it makes sense to upgrade to more energy efficient models.

Lights. Not only can you turn your lights on or off without getting up from the couch, but you can even control their color and brightness from anywhere with an Internet connection. Switch on your front porch light and the path lighting along your front walk before you leave the office, so you’re not fumbling around in the dark when you get home.

Moisture Sensors. Not only can excessive moisture in your home lead to structural problems, but it can also contribute to the growth of mold, which can cause major health problems in some people. Moisture sensors can alert you to standing water and persistently damp areas in places you wouldn’t notice them, like inside the walls.

house exterior

Exterior

Heating. Make sure your home is always evenly heated to exactly the right temperature. Your home’s Learning Technology will adapt to your wintertime temperature preferences, so you can always enjoy a perfectly cozy home without having to do anything at all. You can even add roof or sidewalk heaters to prevent icing and snow buildup.

Garage Door Control. Forget to close your garage door this morning when you left for work? Do it from the office, with a simple swipe of your smart phone. Problem solved.

Doors. Wonder who’s knocking at your door? Find out with a glance at the live security feed on your smart phone. Unlock the door for guests remotely—or lock it if it’s a stranger.

Doorbell Camera. See who’s at the door before you answer it, and never get stuck talking to a door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesman again.

Sprinkler Control. Wise water management can help save you money—and if you live in a drought-stricken area, it might even be mandatory. Home automation lets you turn your sprinklers on and off remotely, from inside the house or across the country. Check your water usage levels whenever you like. You can even add outdoor moisture sensors so your system will always know when the yard needs watering—and when it doesn’t.

backyard

Backyard

Pets. Your pets should enjoy the benefits of home automation as much as you do. Connect a food dispenser to make sure they’re always fed on time. Set up a schedule for locking and unlocking the pet door to keep unwanted critters out. And know by just checking your phone whether they’re in the house, out in the yard, or digging up the neighbor’s flowers.

Door Sensors. Sensors will tell you immediately if a door is open or ajar, and will work with your home security system to alert your alarm company in the event of a home security breach.

Cameras. Was that a burglar or just a raccoon? Check the outside cameras via your tablet or smart phone and find out, without getting out of bed. Or check the interior cameras to look in on the place when you’re away.

Pool. Adjust the pool lighting before you take that late-night dip. Easily and automatically manage the pH level. And pool motion sensors help keeps small children safe by alerting you whenever something—or someone—falls in.

Glass Break Sensors. Are you sure you’d hear it if an intruder broke a downstairs window to get inside? Your home’s glass break sensors will make sure you know all about it, the moment it happens—and so will the police.

home automation timeline

The idea of managing all the functions of a home with a centralized control system dates back to at least the beginning of the 20th century. The earliest working prototypes of automated houses debuted in the 1930s at World’s Fairs in Chicago and New York City, but those homes were never intended to be commercially available.1

It wasn’t until the invention of the microcontroller during the 1970s that marketing a fully-wired, “smart” home automation system became economically feasible.

With the growth of computer technology over the last fifteen years or so, the home automation industry has taken off.

  • In 2012, the estimated value of the home-automation market was around $3.6 billion.2
  • Smart-home device sales doubled the following year3, with 1.8 million new system installations nationwide.4
  • Some analysts expect 12 million new residential system installations in 20164 and an estimated overall market value of as much as $16.4 billion by 2019.2

Indulge your inner control freak.

Control just about everything in your home… except your kids.

lifx smart led bulb

Lights

Today’s home automation systems make it easy for you to use your smartphone or tablet to control the lights in your home. You can switch on your lights and set them to an appropriate brightness, all while you’re away or lounging on your couch.

tv

Entertainment

Some home automation systems also integrate entertainment. Set your TV’s recording schedule, manage your stored programs, and decide where to watch them, all from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

August Smart Lock + bridge connect

Locks and Security 

A home automation system will allow you to check—and change, if necessary—the status of your locks and security system remotely. Also, many systems allow remote monitoring of your home security cameras.

 

smart thermostat

Temperature 

Use your home automation app to raise the temperature in the house a few degrees so you can stay comfy. Not only will you feel more comfortable, but you’ll also enjoy the pleasure of a lower energy bill.

Breville Smart Oven Pro

Appliances

With home automation, you can easily change the oven temperature, for example, while you’re relaxing in the back yard or watching a movie in the den thanks to wireless technology, smart outlets, and a smartphone app.

co detector

Home Hazards

Your home automation system can detect increased levels of carbon monoxide in the air and set off an alarm if you’re in danger. It’s a far more reliable method than the old, standalone detectors from the hardware store.

How to Get Started with Home Automation

But hold on a minute—automating your home isn’t as simple as just downloading an app. It’ll take a little more than that to get started.

1. Smart Hub. For one thing, you’ll need a controller. Today’s home automation systems can usually be managed straight from your tablet or smartphone, but some do still require the installation of a centralized hub, or control panel somewhere in your home.

2. Network Connection. You’ll also need access to a network in order to send messages from your controller to your home’s devices. Most home automation systems either use Wi-Fi or a simple Bluetooth connection. This, of course, depends on how you plan to use your system. For example, if you think you’ll want to interact with your devices while at work, a Bluetooth connection won’t cut it.

3. Compatible Devices. Finally, your devices will need some way to receive your instructions. For some, this isn’t an issue: today’s home entertainment systems often have Wi-Fi connectivity built right in before the components leave the factory. But for others—like, say, lights—you’ll need either smart outlets or smart lightbulbs to integrate them into your home’s automation system. That may seem like a lot of work, but honestly, it isn’t. The bottom line is that if you’ve got Wi-Fi in your home and a smartphone in your pocket, you’re already most of the way there.

So, What Does the Future of Home Automation Look Like?

You can’t talk about the future of home automation without mentioning the Internet of Things (IoT). That’s the catch-all phrase for the trend toward embedding sensors and microchips in everyday objects in a way that allows them to be connected to a network—like, say, the Internet. With the Internet of Things, your washing machine, for example, can send an alert to your phone when it’s time to move your clothes over to the dryer.

In just 40 years, complete home automation systems have gone from high-tech curiosities to affordable and accessible modern home conveniences. They’re so simple now that just about anyone can take advantage of home automation to simplify their lives and enjoy what was once a luxury of the wealthy and tech-savvy. In another 40 years, we’ll wonder how we ever lived without them.

Note: Home automation features will vary depending on the system chosen.

The post Room-by-Room Guide to Home Automation appeared first on SafeWise.

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Best Motion Detector Lights

Best Overall
MAXSA Innovations Dual Head Security SpotlightLeonlite Outdoor Security Light
  • Senses motion 60 feet away
  • Produces up to 1400 lumens
  • Withstands extreme weather and temperature
  • Senses motion 60 feet away
  • Produces up to 1400 lumens
  • Withstands extreme weather and temperature
Most Sensitive
Sunforce Solar LightSunforce 82156
  • Senses motion up to 130 feet away
  • Uses battery or solar power
  • Senses motion up to 130 feet away
  • Uses battery or solar power
Welcome Home Pick
maxsa innovations motion activated led spotlightMAXSA Innovations 40218
  • Weather and temperature resistant
  • Equipped with four bright LEDs
  • Ideal for driveway and entrances
  • Weather and temperature resistant
  • Equipped with four bright LEDs
  • Ideal for driveway and entrances

The Bottom Line: The Leonlite Outdoor Light Shines

The LeonLight is the brightest star in our lineup of motion detector lights. It has powerful dual LED outdoor security lights and a durable design built to withstand tough weather and temperatures. 

Its motion sensor can detect activity from 60 feet away with a 180-degrees sensing angle. When something triggers the LED motion light, its powerful dual heads produce up to 1400 lumens (about the same brightness as your car’s headlights). The LeonLite is the brightest of the bunch, making it one of the best flood lights if you live in a dark or rural area.

Top Motion Sensor Lights 

  1. Leonlite Dual-Head Motion-Activated Security Light | Read Review
  2. Sunforce Solar Motion Light  | Read Review
  3. MAXSA Motion-Activated Security Spotlight | Read Review
  4. Baxia Technology Solar Motion Sensor Lights | Read Review
  5. RuggedGrade Solar Flood Light | Read Review
  6. Mr Beams Wireless Spotlight | Read Review 

Compare the Top Motion Sensor Lights

List Price*
Motion Detection Range
Lumens
Power Source
Temperature and Weather Resistant
Leonlite Dual-Head Motion-Activated Security Light Sunforce Solar Motion Light MAXSA Motion-Activated Security Spotlight Baxia Technology Solar Motion Sensor Lights RuggedGrade Solar Flood Light Mr Beams Wireless Spotlight
Leonlite Dual Light Sunforce Solar Light MAXSA Motion Activated Security Light Baxia Solar Motion Light Rugged Solar Flood Light Mr Beams Wireless Spotlight
$30.49 $21.99 $67.58 $29.99 $79.99 $13.57
70 feet
180°
30 feet
180°
40 feet
180°

32 feet

16 feet

30 feet
1400 850 160 400 1000 140
Wired Battery or Solar Battery or Solar Battery or Solar Battery or Solar Battery
Yes
Weatherproof only Yes
Yes
Weatherproof only Weatherproof only
View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon View on Amazon

*Amazon.com prices as of 12/11/19 3:03 pm MST. See full disclaimer at the bottom of the page.

Best Motion Detector Lights Reviews

Leonlite Dual-Head Motion-Activated Outdoor Security Light

Best Overall
Leonlite Dual Light

This LeonLite motion detector light strikes a balance between power and energy efficiency. 

Usually, when you think of energy efficiency, solar lights probably jump to mind. But this hardwired motion light gives them a run for their money. The LeonLite Motion-Activated Security Light is eligible for state and national energy rebate programs, and it can save you up to 87.5% on your outdoor lighting electricity bill. Think of them as outdoor lights that are good for the outdoors.

On top of shaving a little off your power bill, this is the brightest LED motion light in our lineup. The motion sensors detect action from up to 60 feet away, its powerful dual floot lights produce up to 1400 lumens, about the same as a car’s headlights. So whether you’re trying to light up your dark backyard or let intruders know you’re home, this light will be hard to ignore.

Pros

  • Comes in multiple finishes
  • Has durable, weatherproof housing
  • Delivers bright, adjustable security lighting

Cons

  • Has tricky installation
  • Goes on and off sporadically

Sunforce Outdoor Solar Motion Light

Most Sensitive
Sunforce Solar Light

The Sunforce Solar Motion Light comes with everything you need to lighten the mood in your back yard. Along with motion sensor lighting, you get 15 ft of wire to make installation easier, a solar panel, mounting hardware, and a rechargeable battery. 

These security lights charge during the day in the sunlight. But don’t stress about its position. You won’t need direct sunlight to get juice into this motion sensor light. 

Once it’s up and running, it can sense motion from up to 30 feet away and 180 degrees around. Its light outputs 850 lumens (about the same as a pair of car headlights. You can also adjust features like sensitivity, brightness, and timing. 

Pros

  • Customizable features
  • Bright LED lights
  • Easy DIY installation

Cons

  • Short battery life
  • No way to turn off during the day

MAXSA Motion-Activated Security Outdoor Spotlight

Welcome Home Pick
MAXSA Motion Activated Security Light

The solar powered MAXSA Security Spotlight is ideal for sheds, decks, garages, and walkways.

It can detect motion up to forty feet away, and it comes with four super bright 0.5 watt LED lights that give off 160 lumens. It’s easy to install, too, so there’s no need to call an electrician to set this security light onto your siding, doors, or garage.

Pros

  • Detects motion up to 40 feet
  • Installs quickly
  • Monitors more than one area at once

Cons

  • Costs more
  • Takes on water

Baxia Technology Solar Motion Sensor Lights

Best Weatherproofing
Baxia Solar Motion Light

Baxia’s motion sensor lights have the highest weatherproof rating of any light on our list. These lights are water resistant and can withstand both extreme cold and extreme heat.

Best of all, they come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros

  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • PIR sensor that detects body heat
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • No dimming mode
  • Inconsistent quality

RuggedGrade Solar Flood Light

Brightest Outdoor Light
Rugged Solar Flood Light

With 1,000 lumens, the RuggedGrade Solar Flood Light easily scares away burglars and safely lights your way when you’re outside at night.

Plus, it’s solar powered, so you don’t need to change batteries—just hook up the solar power cable and panel to keep this floodlight bright and ready for action.

Pros

  • Dimming feature
  • Great customer reviews
  • Sturdy, weatherproof construction

Cons

  • High price tag
  • Delayed motion sensor activation

Mr Beams Wireless Outdoor Spotlight

Budget Pick
Mr Beams Wireless Spotlight

This motion-activated security spotlight packs a powerful punch that won’t bust your budget.

Whether you’re looking to enhance home security or add extra safety to dark entryways, this light fits just about anywhere. Even though it may be small, the Mr Beams Wireless LED Spotlight provides up to 140 lumens of bright LED light.

This durable motion detecting spotlight is so affordable you may want to buy multiple units for all your outdoor lighting needs.  You can pick up one Mr Beams Spotlight for less than $20 or get a four-pack for around $60.

The Mr Beams Spotlight claims to be waterproof, but customers have found corrosion inside the sensors due to moisture, so it’s something to consider if you live in a moist climate.

Pros

  • Easy installation
  • Auto shut-off
  • UV light sensor

Cons

  • Touchy sensor
  • Inconsistent quality

Things to Consider in a Motion Sensor Light

Why do I want motion detector lights?

Indoor or outdoor, motion sensor lights provide security, convenience, and energy efficiency. There may be one main reason you’re looking for motion-activated lighting, or you may want to take advantage of all the benefits. Your primary reason will help you figure out the answers to other questions, like what type of bulb to get.

For security, you might want an outdoor motion sensor lights that’s surprise an intruders and scare them off. On the other hand, a motion light that makes sure you don’t get tripped up on your way into the house can be less powerful.

What type of lightbulb should I get?

Many outdoor motion sensor lights use LED to help save on electricity and minimize the chance of fire from a traditional, incandescent bulb that gets hot while in use.

The downside is that LED security lights are often dimmer, which can be a deal breaker if you want to illuminate a big area or startle trespassers. Incandescent light bulbs use more energy and need to be replaced more often, but they tend to be much brighter.

Because you’re looking for motion sensor lighting, you should have less worry about incandescent lights heating up from being left on too long.

How much area should my motion detector lights cover?

The amount of coverage provided by a motion light is determined by the motion sensor range and the brightness of the light bulbs. If you’re looking to light up a small area like the front porch, you may only need a motion sensor with a range of a few feet.

But if you want to illuminate a larger area like an entire backyard, you might want LED security lights with a range of 70 feet or more. You can also power up the reach of your motion light with bright bulbs that use more lumens. Small areas can get by with as little as 42 lumens, while floodlights can use up to 3,400.

What type of power source is best?

You can get motion sensor light fixtures that are hardwired, battery powered, or solar powered. The benefit of lights that use battery power or a solar panel is that you don’t have to install them near an electrical outlet. But solar panels need to be affixed where they’ll get enough sunlight for a full charge.

The drawbacks with battery and solar power are that your security can be compromised due to a dead battery or a cloudy day. You also sacrifice brightness with those power sources, as the brightest lights tend to use hardwiring.

If you do go with hardwired motion lights, be sure to plan ahead in case you need to run wires through walls or secure extension cords.  

Can I add motion sensor lights to my security system?

You should be able to add motion sensor lights to an existing home security system. Contact your security provider to find out if motion sensor lights are available. If the company you use doesn’t offer motion lights, find out if the system is compatible with any third-party motion sensor lights.

The benefit of having motion lights integrated into your security system is the convenience of mobile alerts when the lights are activated. Plus, if you have security cameras, the lights can help you get better footage in low-light situations.

Our Approach

We delved into industry research and reviews from real users to evaluate product performance, features, and specs. We also explored the FCC rules for LED lighting and consulted expert reviews to help us determine the best motion sensor lights of 2018. We picked our top ten after looking at more than fifteen products that were compared for effectiveness, reliability, customer satisfaction, and affordability.

  • 12 hours researched
  • 17 products considered
  • 2,700+ customer reviews
  • 8 coffees consumed

*Amazon.com list price as of 12/11/19 03:03 MST. Product prices and availability are accurate as of this date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any prices and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. Safewise.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.

The post Best Motion Detector Lights appeared first on SafeWise.

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Best Home Security Systems in Kansas City

Best for Budget
Scharig Alarm Systems LogoScharig Alarm Systems
  • Starting at $19.99/mo.
  • Positive online reviews
  • Multiple cameras cost extra
  • Starting at $19.99/mo.
  • Positive online reviews
  • Multiple cameras cost extra
Best for Short Contracts
Shield Security Systems LogoSHIELD Security Systems
  • Starting at $21.95/mo.
  • Customized security systems
  • Higher equipment costs
  • Starting at $21.95/mo.
  • Customized security systems
  • Higher equipment costs
Best for DIY
Rampart Security Systems LogoRampart Security Systems
  • Starting at $15.00/mo.
  • DIY or professional installation
  • Low monthly monitoring costs
  • Starting at $15.00/mo.
  • DIY or professional installation
  • Low monthly monitoring costs

Data effective 1/15/2020. Offers and availability subject to change.

When people talk about Kansas City, they usually mean Kansas City, Missouri. No disrespect to Kansas City, Kansas, but KCMO has the Chiefs and Royals, the historic homes of the Country Club District, the 18th and Vine festival, and the best barbecue in the country (anyone who disagrees should prepare for a fight).

But there’s a darker side to KC. Kansas City’s robbery and property crime rates are much higher than both the state and national averages. According to recent crime stats, 98% of US cities are safer than Kansas City, Missouri.1

In a place with higher property crime rates, a home security system can protect you, your loved ones, and your belongings. We dug into the best home security systems in the Kansas City area, so read on to find out which local security brands we like and why.

Our Recommendation

Whether you live in downtown Kansas City or out in a suburb like Overland Park, you deserve to feel safe in your home and when you’re away from it. Choosing a local home security company can help ensure that your system comes from people who know the area and what you’re facing. Here are the local KC security brands we like best and why:

If you still prefer a national brand, check out our recommendations for the best home security systems.

Compare Kansas City Security Companies

All of these companies service Kansas City, Missouri, and surrounding areas.

Brand
Logo
Best for
Lowest Monitoring Price
Monitoring Types
Smartphone Access
Year Founded
Learn More
Scharig Alarm Systems SHIELD Security Systems Rampart Security Systems Atronic Alarms
Scharig Alarm Systems Logo Shield Security Systems Logo Rampart Security Systems Logo Atronic Alarms Logo
Best on a Budget Best for Short Contracts Best DIY Security System Best Starter System
$19.99/mo. $21.95/mo. $15.00/mo. $40.00/mo.
Cellular, landline Cellular, landline Cellular, landline Cellular
Yes, with 36-month contract
Yes, with cellular monitoring plans
Yes, for $2.50/mo.
Yes, for $8.00/mo.
1994 2010 1981 1982
View Packages View Packages View Packages View Packages

Data effective 1/15/2020. Offers and availability subject to change.

Best Home Security in Kansas City: Reviews

Scharig Alarm Systems: Best on a Budget

Scharig Alarm Systems Logo

Scharig Alarm Systems

Scharig Alarm Systems’ budget-friendly options stood out to us. Scharig Alarm Systems offers both landline and cellular monitoring with month-to-month and long term contract options.

With a month-to-month contract, you can purchase your equipment up front and pay as little as $31.00 per month for cellular monitoring or $19.99 per month for landline, which compares very well with national brands like Frontpoint.

Pricing

You can add security cameras to your month-to-month plan by purchasing the camera upfront and increasing your monthly costs. If you’d like to spread out the equipment cost, choose the 36-month plan to pay a little more per month without buying the equipment upfront. More equipment is included, as well as a lifetime warranty and mobile access.

The Total Connect Energy package comes with a smart thermostat for $49.99 per month. Other smart home devices can be added to this package, though additional items are not included in the price and have to be paid for upfront.

Features and Equipment

Scharig Alarm Systems uses Honeywell equipment, which is a great brand. And if you already use Honeywell devices at home, this would be the best security system to integrate with your home.

Pros

  • Month-to-month monitoring option
  • Lower monthly costs
  • No equipment costs with monitoring agreement
  • Positive online reviews

Cons

  • Remote access not available with every plan
  • Multiple cameras cost more per month

The Bottom Line: Scharig’s month-to-month contract offers customers low prices for cellular monitoring and reasonable equipment costs. But Scharig also gives customers the option of spreading out the equipment costs in slightly higher monthly payments, making them our best budget-friendly choice.

SHIELD Security Systems: Best for Short Contracts

Shield Security Systems Logo

SHIELD Security Systems

SHIELD Security Systems works with both residential and commercial properties. Each system is customized to your home which can make the up-front costs higher, but unlike many other companies, SHIELD doesn’t require long-term contracts.

And we were impressed with their customer service. We got a return phone call (from the president of the company, no less) within an hour after leaving a message.

Pricing

All three plans monitor your security system and environmental sensors (fire, smoke, CO detectors), but it costs more to add video monitoring and smart home devices. Remote access is available only with cellular monitoring.

SHIELD stands out with its 12-month contract (and some month-to-month contracts) as opposed to the usual 36-month contract. We love how much flexibility this gives customers without raising costs.

Features and Equipment

SHIELD provides custom solutions rather than set equipment packages. Prices vary, but basic items like door or window sensors are around $50, and devices like glass break sensors, motion detectors, and smoke alarms are around $100.

A basic home security setup could be anywhere from $400 to $700 up front. SHIELD also offers an option for DIY installation. This is recommended only if you are already familiar with basic home repairs.

Pros

  • No long-term contracts (12 months or month-to-month)
  • Both professional and DIY installation options
  • Great customer service
  • Customized security systems

Cons

  • Higher monthly costs than local competition
  • Mobile access not available with every plan

The Bottom Line: SHIELD Security Systems has a lot to offer: a full range of equipment and services, smartphone access, great customer service, and even a DIY installation option. Best of all, with year-to-year monitoring plans, you aren’t locked into a long contract.

Rampart Security Systems: Best DIY Security System

Rampart Security Systems Logo

Rampart Security Systems

If you’re a student, in a temporary living situation, or just renting an apartment, then you need a flexible security system that doesn’t require a contract, and that’s exactly what Rampart Security Systems offers. All systems come with professional monitoring you can turn on and off as needed—no long-term contracts required. Additionally, Rampart is 100% wireless, has refreshing transparency on its website, and its customer service responded to us within 24 hours.

Packages and Pricing

DIY System
Rampart’s DIY starter kit costs $250 and all devices are easy to install with the smartphone app guide. Professional cellular monitoring starts at just $15 per month, which is the lowest price we’ve seen for cellular monitoring among local brands.

The additional equipment available to add on to the starter kit is limited, but you wouldn’t need much more for a small apartment anyway. Rampart’s extra equipment prices are quite affordable, ranging from $20 to $175 for items like door/window sensors, motion detectors, and indoor cameras.

3G Is on Its Way Out

Some cellular security equipment works on 2G and 3G networks only, including some of Rampart’s DIY equipment. Once 3G is phased out, the equipment will need to be replaced, so keep in mind this is truly a temporary security system.

Professionally Installed System
Rampart’s professional installation racks up higher fees, starting at $330 for the basic starter equipment, but is still less expensive than most national brands. Most of the equipment options are the same as the DIY system with a couple of additions. Monthly monitoring fees range from $25 to $33. Because you purchase the equipment up front, there are no long-term contracts—all customers are on a month-to-month plan.

Pros

  • Both DIY and professional installation available
  • Low monthly monitoring costs
  • No long-term contracts (all month-to-month)
  • 100% wireless equipment
  • Smartphone access

Cons

  • 3G equipment will need to be replaced over the next few years
  • Limited equipment options
  • 1-year warranty

The Bottom Line: Rampart Security Systems is ideal for students and apartment dwellers. With month-to-month contracts and low costs, not to mention DIY installation options, this is flexible, budget-friendly local home security.

Atronic Alarms: Best Starter System

Atronic Alarms Logo

Atronic Alarms

Atronic Alarms stood out to us because of their low up-front cost for a basic security package. For just $195, you get three door/window sensors, two motion detectors, an indoor siren, and a touchscreen keypad with a 36-month contract. If you need basic security equipment, you should consider Atronic Alarms.

Packages and Pricing

Cellular monitoring starts at $40 per month and goes up depending on which additional services you add on. Unfortunately, remote access to your security system from a smartphone is counted as one of those services. Add-ons like remote access, smart home integration, and more range from $5 to $8 per month.

Customer Service

Atronic Alarms was the only company we contacted that responded within two hours of our email, rather than the next day. We also got more information from them in each interaction than we did from other companies.

Equipment

Atronic has an extensive list of available equipment, covering all the types of monitoring we look for: security, environmental, video, and smart home. The individual prices are definitely more expensive, but the sales reps at Atronic can work with you to bring the overall price down a little. Equipment prices include the cost of professional installation, which may help explain why these prices are on the high side compared to the rest of the industry.

Pros

  • Low cost for starter equipment
  • Smart home integrations and video monitoring available
  • Great customer service
  • 100% cellular monitoring

Cons

  • Higher monthly costs
  • Mobile access costs extra

The Bottom Line: Atronic Alarms caught our attention with a basic security starter kit for one of the lowest prices we’ve seen. They also offer a full range of equipment options and all the add-on services you could want, though at prices that are definitely on the high side.

Our Approach

We researched almost three dozen security companies in Kansas City, Missouri, to bring you our recommendations. We narrowed the field down by looking for professionally monitored residential security systems with either professional and/or DIY installation.

Then we evaluated each company based on price (monthly fees and equipment costs), contract lengths and flexibility, equipment options, and customer service. We gave more weight to cellular monitoring and remote cell phone access, and we reached out to each company as potential customers to get a true feel for their service.

Finally, we compared the pros and cons for each company against each other and against the standards set by national brands like ADT and Vivint to bring you the recommendations in this article.

Other Brands We Considered

Alert 360

Alert 360 is a substantial security company with locations in Kansas City and across the southern half of the US. They offer a wide range of equipment and technology for both home security and smart home devices.

Their system is geared toward a mobile experience and everything is monitored through the smartphone app. Their prices are reasonable, though they do require a 36-month contract.

We had good experiences with their customer service team, and we were impressed with the follow-up calls we received.

But Alert 360 didn’t make the cut because we felt it isn’t truly local to KC. The nearest central monitoring station is in another state and part of the reason for choosing a local home security company is for local monitoring and faster response times.

Alert of KC

Alert of KC offers both residential and commercial security solutions and has been in business since 1983. One of the things we liked most about Alert of KC is the option of purchasing a DIY system and one year of professional monitoring online. The monitoring is paid for up front, but it breaks down to $29.95 per month, which is a great price for cellular monitoring.

But the DIY equipment is limited. Only basic security and environmental monitoring devices are available, so you don’t have the option of adding cameras or smart home equipment. The equipment is 100% wireless, but it isn’t particularly cutting edge in its technology. This would be a good option for someone who needs only the basics on a budget.

More Kansas City Home Security Companies

Brand
Best Security
Gargoyle Security
Jade Alarm Co.
Kansas City CCTV & Security
Kansas City Security Systems
SEi Security
Steadfast Security
Teague Security
Town & Country Security
Watchman Security

Local vs. National Security Systems

We’re big fans of everything national security system brands like Frontpoint, ADT, and Vivint have to offer, but we also love local security companies too. Here’s a quick rundown of why.

Local Knowledge
A local home security company operated by people from your city will know best what you need to protect your home. They’ll already have a sense for which areas of town need more protection, be familiar with the seasonal rhythms of the weather (or semester routines of the university), and know what kinds of location-specific considerations to bear in mind.

Monitoring
Many of the companies we found in KCMO have their own monitoring stations, which means they are physically closer to you and can respond more quickly.

Customer Service
To a small company, every customer makes a difference, and you can feel that difference in the way you are prioritized and helped. Plus, when there are only ten people working at your security company, you get to know each one personally, and they’ll remember you each time you reach out to them. When they are closer to your location, it cuts down on wait times for service calls as well.

Customization
Both big companies and local ones give you equipment options based on what you need, but a local company is going to be more flexible and even get you a deal to make sure you have the equipment you want and need. Many local security companies can help you with smart home automation too.

What to Know about Home Security Systems inKansas City

Alarm Permits

If you want a home alarm system in Kansas City, you need to get an alarm permit from the police department. Without one, the police won’t respond if the alarm is tripped, making your security system essentially useless.2 It costs $48 and many of these local home security companies can help you get that set up.

Are there fines for false alarms in Kansas City?

Yes. In Kansas City, false alarms have real consequences for residential permit holders. The Kansas City Police Department charges renewal fees based on the number of false alarms during the permit year.3

False alarms
1–2
3–5
6+
Renewal process
Automatically renewed at $0
Permit holder fined $56 per false alarm up to $168 per permit year
Permit suspended and holder required to attend False Alarm Class

That’s right—just like chronic speedsters with suspended drivers licenses, repeat false-alarm offenders in Kansas City (i.e., those with six or more false alarms in a permit year) have to go to False Alarm Class to get their permits restored. Classes are free, open to all KCMO residents, and take place once a month.

Homeowners Insurance Discounts

Many homeowners can get a discount of up to 20% on their insurance by having a professionally monitored security system installed. Your rate will vary based on the type of monitoring, the type of equipment, and your insurance company’s policies. Most home security companies have the documentation you need to get your discount readily available, so be sure to ask.

Sources:

  1. Neighborhood Scout, “Kansas City, MO Crime Rates
  2. Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department, “Private Alarms
  3. Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department, “Private Alarms

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