Tag Archive for: home automation

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Feeling Secure at Home: 5 Benefits of Working with a Professional Security Provider

With the rapid progression in security technology, many homeowners are left thinking to themselves, “Should I buy a DIY system or invest in professional installation?”

Deciding between purchasing a DIY system or investing in professional installation is a significant choice that demands careful consideration, as it can have a long-term impact and could prove to be a crucial factor in safeguarding your life.

Criminals and thieves are continually on the lookout for their next victim. This scouting period may take place over months, learning a homeowner’s schedule, their home layout from social media posts, and pinpointing areas for easy access. A simple 2-step DIY security system doesn’t have the functionality nor capability to monitor a home to the fullest extent. As a homeowner, you are hoping the system’s weak points won’t be sniffed out. 

Does hoping a security system works feel like a good way to live?

Investing in a professional security system for your home is a wise decision for several reasons. Here are the top 5:

1. Knowledge and Experience

Rather than reading through 100s of Amazon reviews before settling for a system, you can talk one-on-one with an experienced technician who has decades of experience. This simple step could save thousands of dollars in mistakes.

Integrating sensors, cameras, alarms, etc. into one cohesive and easy-to-use system is not so simple. A professional security company will have in-depth knowledge of what equipment will be needed, its operation, as well as the pros and cons of different configurations.

Moreover, relying on a professional installer guarantees that every angle and viewpoint is covered without any chance of omission, thereby ensuring maximum security and surveillance for you and your family.

2. All Inclusive Maintenance

Not only are DIY options prone to mistakes, they are also dependent on the homeowner to function properly. It’s not a matter of if there’s a technical issue, but when. When that time comes, whether it’s a software bug or a malfunctioning camera, you are responsible for fixing it. Hopefully, the fix is quick but if it’s not, that means your security system may be compromised for a prolonged period.

It’s worth noting that DIY security products are not manufactured to the same durability standards as those from a professional security company. Consequently, the required maintenance may prove to be frequent and extensive.

hardware management

A professional installer lives and breathes security. We know how vital it is to have a functioning system 24/7, and we’ll make it our priority to have it fixed ASAP. That’s just one of the benefits of working with a local provider.

3. Customized For Your Needs

Your home and lifestyle aren’t one-size-fits-all, so why should your security system fit that mold?

Proper placement is paramount when it comes to home security. However, most self-installs tend to prioritize monitoring the front and back doors, which only covers about half of the total home area. Unfortunately, this puts homeowners at a disadvantage with less protection and increased security risks.

With expert help, homeowners receive a complete home monitoring system. Along with 24/7 surveillance, you can add motion sensors, glass break detection, early detection technology, etc. All of it is tied to one system, rather than having a jumbled mess of applications and different remotes.

4. Avoid Stressful Hiccups

With new technology comes new hurdles… it’s going to take some time to get familiar with a security system if you’re trying to get it all done yourself. Sure, YouTube and online forums may provide some helpful tips and answers, but what do you do when you’re stuck in a rut?

With a DIY system, you have to depend on yourself. Common issues with do-it-yourself systems include false alarms, incompatibility issues with hardware, updates, and troubleshooting real-time notifications.

Installing and programming a security system can quickly become overwhelming, and lead to a compromised system. When it comes to securing you and your family, why leave gaps for intruders in your fortress?

5. Peace of Mind

viewing cameras on phone

For DIY setups, there’s always that thought, “Did I install everything correctly? Will it work when I need it to?” The installer takes full responsibility for its reliability.

That’s not a reassuring feeling.

Whether you’re headed out of town for an extended vacation, running daily errands, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, having an experienced and reliable home security company at your fingertips can provide invaluable peace of mind. From initial consultation and installation to ongoing monitoring and support, professional home security companies offer a comprehensive range of services to meet your unique needs. With a focus on personalized care and attention to detail, these providers can work closely with you to create a custom security plan that keeps your home and family safe and protected.

What to Look For in a Security Company

For many homeowners, finding someone they trust to protect their home can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s crucial to choose a security provider that’s experienced, reputable, and has a proven track record of providing excellent service. 

Reputation

If you’ve ever dealt with contractors, it can be a headache. They rarely show up on time, and “professional” is usually not how the interaction would be described. Sure, for a concrete job or a new roof, a contractor is fine, but not so much for securing your home.

A strong and dependable security business will last the test of time. Does their website reflect them as professionals? Are they providing up-to-date technologies? What do their reviews look like?

Brinton testimonial

Fortunately, these are all questions that can be easily answered with a quick search. Take the time to look through their social media channels, read their reviews, and if it fits the bill, schedule a time to talk.

If they are truly valuable, they will meet all the criteria.

Choosing Brinton Fire & Security

Founded in 2001, Brinton Security has been protecting homes and businesses throughout Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. If you are looking for the best security service near you, the search is over.

Whether it’s a complete security system controlled from the palm of your hand, burglar alarms, fire safety, home automation – you can rest easy with 24/7 monitoring. Working with our professional technicians makes installation and programming a breeze. Plus, we take the time to show you how the system works. You’ll never be left confused or uncertain about which function does what, as everything will be crystal clear.

For those wanting hassle-free and dependable security, choose Brinton.

Get your free consultation here.

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Save More with Alarm.com’s ENERGY STAR® Certified Smart Thermostat

Upgrade your home with an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat this fall, and you can save between 9 and 16 percent of the energy you’d normally use to heat your house this winter.

That’s according to the rigorous, independent tests required by the Environmental Protection Agency for its ENERGY STAR® certification, which the Alarm.com Smart Thermostat earned this month.

And, next summer, you can be even more energy-efficient, saving between 15 and 23 of the energy it normally takes to cool your house.

With the average home’s heating and cooling costing $900 per year, that’s a substantial opportunity to save energy and money without having to be uncomfortable.

How our Smart Thermostat makes savings easy

Connected to every device and activity sensor in your smart home security system, and powered by cloud intelligence, our smart thermostat proactively spots opportunities to save energy when you don’t need it. Here’s a quick video explainer.

How our Smart Thermostat keeps you more comfortable

With remote temperature sensors installed in different rooms, our smart thermostat can optimize your home’s temperature for any room of your choosing. You can easily correct a room that’s too hot, make sure that the nursery is just right at naptime, and create custom comfort schedules targeted to the rooms you use throughout the day.

Read more: Four Ways to Use an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat

How do I get an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat?

Getting an Alarm.com Smart Thermostat is easy. If you already have smart home security, just ask Brinton Security about upgrading your existing thermostat.

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You’re Smart For Having a Smart Garage Door

Others can scoff all they want; we know the truth. That smart garage door is one of the most important elements in your smart home security system. That’s because the garage is more than just the place your store your car and other assorted valuables, it is also in most cases one of the most used entries into the home.

A Smart Garage Door is Step One to a Thoughtful Home

They may not get a lot of attention but smart garage doors deserve a little time in the limelight. While convenient, the smart garage door is is not purely or primarily a convenience. It’s one of the first components in making your home thoughtful, responsive, and intelligent.

Keeping Track of Goings and Comings

Whenever the garage door opens and closes, you can receive an alert through your smart phone app. If the door opens at an unexpected time, you will know that something needs your immediate attention. That is helpful to anyone, but especially someone trying to keep track of a busy family. This is even more useful when users have a unique code so that you (and your smart home) know the difference between your dog walker popping in for a few minutes and a family member’s arrival home for the day.

It Makes a Difference in Energy Consumption

When your garage door is part of a connected home, opening and closing it can trigger other smart home responses, such as turning off or on heating or air conditioning. This means no wasted energy.

Countless Connected Possibilities

Connectedness is the name of the game in today’s world and we can only expect an ever-increasing number of connected home appliances. Already, a smart garage door can be synced to the smart home hub and any activity with the door can trigger other activities such as turning on or off lights and appliances. This makes the home responsive to your needs and usage patterns.

Forget Forgetting

When others are rushing off to work and forgetting to close their garage door, you can rest easy because your love for all things geeky and connected is working in your favor. Once the system detects inactivity for the predetermined amount of time, you get an alert on your phone so you can close it remotely from the other side of the block, town, or country.

Brinton Security has been dedicated to providing protection for both residential and commercial properties throughout Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.

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Give the Gift of Home Automation this Christmas

As you get older, it is harder to think of what you really want for Christmas. There is always one trend that never gets old: buying things that make life easier. Home automation systems are quickly becoming popular, especially around Christmas time. They not only make life simpler but give homeowners peace of mind and added security – not to mention home value.

Why Home Automation for Christmas?

Homes can be just as tech savvy as cars and computers these days. In fact, as long as you have a smartphone, tablet or PC you can control almost every aspect of your home. While there are numerous reasons to consider a home automation system for your home this Christmas, here are some of the biggest benefits and features you will find with today’s systems:

  • Safety – Home automation is an additional level of safety you can add to your home. From controlling appliances and lights with the tap of a finger, you can make sure everything is turned off before you leave for the day, including curling irons. You can also ensure that lights are turned on when it gets dark.
  • Automatic Door Locks – How often do you leave only to realize you forgot to lock the front door or perhaps the garage entrance? With home automation, you do not have to turn around; instead, you can use your smartphone to lock your doors. If someone does enter your home, you can set up alerts to be delivered straight to your device, so you know who comes and goes.
  • Adding Security Cameras – Whether you have kids, an open backyard or pets to keep an eye on, home automation systems have you covered. Never miss a moment of what is going on by adding home security cameras with your automation system. You can check in on your home periodically throughout the day via your computer, tablet or smartphone.
  • Comfort – Adjusting your thermostat (whether you are away or just in the other room) is as simple as pulling out your device and making the change. Not only does this make life easier, but it could help you save money on energy – by allowing you to keep your home cool during the day and start heating it just an hour before you head home.
  • Peace of Mind While Traveling – During the holidays and even year-round, there will be times when you travel away from your home. Instead of relying on equally busy neighbors to keep an eye on things, you can control your home and monitor its security through your home automation system.

About Brinton Security

Home automation systems are much more affordable than you might realize. With all of the added benefits, they are quickly becoming an attractive upgrade for most homeowners. Brinton Security is your local home automation expert. We provide free consultations and can help you find the right home automation and security system to suit your family’s needs.

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How Home Automation Has Evolved Over The Years

Since the 1930’s World Fair, people have envisioned a home where small functions are performed automatically. While the idea is not new, the technologies to make it happen are. Home automation is hotter than ever because of smart home technologies.

So what exactly is a smart home? You may have heard the terms “home automation,” and “smart home” used interchangeably, and while very closely related, one is actually a component of another.

Here are some basic terms you will need to know:

Home Automation

When selected appliances and devices are connected to a central system and respond based on user input.

Connected Devices

These devices, appliances, and systems have integrated sensors that can connect them to the internet. The user programs the devices that can also learn and anticipate user patterns and respond accordingly.

The Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things is what brings home automation and connected devices together to create a smart home. Using sensors, programs, systems and controls, the IoT allows the systems to communicate, telling everything how, when, and why to perform a certain task as well as relay information to the user.

Why Smart Home Technologies are More than Just Cool Technologies

Yes, there really is something incredibly cool about having your home respond to your needs, but smart home technologies are more than just cool, they are also an advantage in many ways. Smart home systems offer a tremendous amount of convenience, allowing users to have the heating cooling, and lighting systems all working without thought. Safety is another big advantage, as users can tap in to home security or surveillance systems, be alerted to security breaches or things like extreme temperature changes. Smart home technologies also offer the user savings with the more effective use of energy.

Home automation and smart home technologies are an important way residents and business owners are streamlining their lives for a more efficient use of their time. If you have a question about home automation, home security, and smart home technologies, feel free to contact us today!

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5 Important Reasons Why Home Automation is a Necessity

If you are like most people, when you think of home automation you think of all the cool conveniences it provides, such as being able to have your home climate controlled or having the ability to lock doors remotely. But this has led to an important question: Is home automation a convenience, luxury, or necessity? We believe that it has increasingly become a necessity. Here are 5 important reasons why.

Times Are Changing

Times change and things that were once considered luxuries are now absolute necessities. For example, in 1995, only 10% of homes had the internet. Now, a short time later, nearly not only does nearly every home have it, our society depends on it for just about every function. While home automation was convenient, the services it provides makes it increasingly indispensable to running a household.

Resources Management is Increasingly Important

Not only is it true that as a society we have become more conscious about conserving our resources, we also understand that it is increasingly important to do so because of the political and economic climate we live in. Home automation provides one of the best tools available for conserving our resources.

Time Management is Important

As we move to a more information drive society, how we spend our time is more important. Home automation provides the tools we need to increase productivity and to do more, more effectively. It also allows us to multi-task much more effectively than ever before.

It Allows Us to Improve Our Caregiving

Today, it is not uncommon to have both small children and aged adults in the home requiring some special oversight. Home automation allows you to provide that without compromising a loved one’s dignity but allowing you to check in remotely and receive custom alerts for activity that might indicate trouble. Home automation also allows you to provide care to those living outside the home, too. With the ability to check in via security camera or keep track of activity through sensors, you can call for help the minute you suspect a problem.

Home Automation Creates A More Hospitable Environment

As we learn more about ourselves and how the mind works we learn how our environment effects things like mood and productivity. Creating a hospitable environment is also important for homes with occupants with sensory issues. Home automation can control those elements that create a disturbance, such as glaring lights or noise.

As time changes, tools such as home automation move quickly from being a convenience to an indispensable tool. If you have any questions about home automation, please give Brinton Security a call.

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5 Times The Connected Home Saved The Day

The home is our sanctuary, our headquarters, homebase, entertainment zone, war room, home office and more. Serving all these functions makes it a hub of activity with plenty of opportunity for a lot of little things to go wrong in a big way. When those things do go awry, those are the times you are so thankful you have a connected home.

Home automation and smart app features make getting and keeping life under control as easy as a few taps on your smartphone– so that you can rest easy. Even in these 5 stress inducing times.

Did I Lock the Door?

You drove off and started the workday when you realized that you completely forgot to lock the doors and arm the smart security system. Going back means a lot of driving and lost time at work. Not going back means risking a break-in, or worse. This is one of those moments you were so thankful to have a connected home. All you had to do was tap into your smart security app, and lock the smart locks and arm the home security system with a few stress relieving taps.

The Kids Were Home When the Carbon Monoxide Detector Went Off

The Carbon monoxide detector went off, but because it is colorless and odorless the kids disregarded the alert. Thankfully, you also got the alert and made sure the kids got out safely.

An Appliance Was Left On

Maybe it was the stove, or the curling iron, or some other appliance likely to cause a fire- but we’ve all walked away and left our home in danger at one point or another. Unfortunately, all it takes is that one time to lead to a dangerous home fire. Thankfully, having smart home technologies means that you can always verify the status of appliances and turn them off remotely.

Connected Home Sensors are Superheroes

You took your eyes off the toddler for one moment and they make a beeline for the cleaning supply closet. It’s late at night and the back door opens unexpectedly. Either way the sensors are tripped and you avert disaster.

You Really Want to Know if The Kids Are Home Safely

The kids are at that inbetween age of needing both independence and oversight. They are usually pretty good about getting home on time and giving you a call or sending a text, but this time they are a little late. You hold your breath a few more minutes when thankfully, you get an alert on your phone that they used their code to disarm the smart security system, and with a quick check of the camera feed, you know they are okay. When they do call, you’ve had a moment to collect yourself and answer the call like you weren’t worried for a moment.

Sure, there are an endless number of moments we can pick out that make us thankful for the connected home, but they can all be summed up in one way– we are just thankful for the smart tools we need to keep our family and home safe. And Here at Brinton Security Services, we are thankful to help make that happen throughout Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.

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6 Ways A Smart Doorbell Will Change Your Life

Have you thought about smart video doorbells lately? Traditional doorbells have been around so long and since, until recently, there has not been an alternative to them, a lot of people have not really given doorbell systems much thought. But times are changing and so is the technology that interacts with our lives to make things better, easier, and safer. It is time to give smart doorbell cameras some serious consideration.

Traditional Doorbells are Actually Security Hazards

The front door is the most vulnerable point of security in our home. It is the intruder’s first choice in attaining access to a residence, whether they are home or not. Why? Because an intruder knows that most people will simply open the door to almost anyone for fear of being rude, or simply in being trusting and off-guard. Once the door is open, a simple push is all it takes. That is why traditional doorbells fall short. To know who is at the door, and the nature of their business you need to put yourself in close proximity to the unknown danger and open the door to address the issue. That puts you, your family, and your home at risk.

Smart Video Doorbells Add Security, And More

Nearly everything in our lives today is getting an IQ boost. We have smart thermostats, smart locks, smart garage doors, smart lighting, smart appliances, smart security and of course, smart doorbells. You likely already know how other smart devices enhance your life, and the video doorbell has that same incredible potential.

Smart HD video doorbells have the same ability to alert you that someone is at the door, but can do much more. This is because they are additionally equipped with wifi, a 1080p HD video camera, motion sensors, and two-way audio capability. The smart doorbell can be connected to a system of other smart home devices and accessed from a smartphone or other connected device. These additional features add convenience but more importantly enhance security.

Here are 6 Important Reasons You Need a Smart Doorbell

  1. You can know someone is approaching before they get close to the door. Motion sensors can trigger an alert which is sent to your phone.
  2. The video and audio components mean you can answer the door whether you are home or not and never tip off a possible intruder that no one is home.
  3. You do not have to go to the door to answer it so you never need to place yourself in close proximity to the unknown, do not need to open the door, and do not need to disrupt your routine unless necessary.
  4. If you aren’t home and the motion sensors are triggered, you can record and store video of suspicious activity.
  5. Clear HD video images let you identify the visitor easily.
  6. Infrared-equipped doorbell cameras mean you can see activity around the door even in the darkest dark.

From the front door to the backyard, Brinton Security provides comprehensive security solutions including smart video doorbells and smart camera systems as well as 24/7 monitoring services.

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When You Think of Parenting, Think of Home Automation

When you think of parenting, a million things come to your mind. Home automation may not be the first on that list, but perhaps it should be. Home automation offers a wealth of parental help and once you know, you will wonder what you ever did without it.
Parenting is one of the most rewarding jobs we will ever have, but also one of the most serious and monumental. That’s why experienced parents will recommend using all of the tools available to help navigate the various stages of parenting—and one of the most effective of those tools is home automation. Here’s why.

Home Automation Helps During Infancy

Bringing home a baby is one of the most joyous times of our lives. It can also be the most terrifying. Suddenly your life is filled with a million new concerns that must be managed while completely sleep deprived. The baby has a need for comfort and consistency while the parent has the overwhelming need to know their child is okay. These needs are easily met with home automation. By using smart technologies, you can keep the room at the perfect temperature and lighting just right to ensure the comfort of the baby. Parents, too, can rest easy with the ability to check the security camera from their phone or knowing they will receive immediate alerts if the door, wind, or motion sensors are tripped.

Keeping Toddlers Safe

Home automation is like a parental superpower when it comes to raising a toddler. Toddlers have an unending curiosity and are unaware of danger. While a parent never wants to quench that curiosity and desire to discover, they do want to keep their child safe. Home automation helps keep the little ones safe by sending alerts if door or motion sensors are tripped. Now, there is no chance of secret backyard excursions or early morning escapes.

Home Automation During the School Years

The school years are a whirlwind of activity that can have you going and coming several times a day. In the midst of all the activities, it is easy to forget to do things lick lock the doors, arm the security system, or turn off the appliances. Fortunately, home automation can take care of all that and prevent a small thing from becoming a catastrophic event. Home automation can also help gently guide kids through the day with cues, such as lights on means you need to get up, and music playing means you need to have your shoes on and be ready to leave.

Inspiring Independence in the Teen and Nearly Adult Years

Teens want and need a new level of independence but also need a new level of oversight. Home automation helps bridge the gap by giving parents much needed insights without sacrificing their teen’s independence or dignity. Alerts can let parents know when the kids get home or provide access control to off limit areas.
Parents want to give their children the best life possible and home automation is one of the best tools to help make that happen. If you would like more information about home automation, give Brinton Security Services a call today.

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Use Home Security to Prepare Your Home for Summer Vacation

Getting away for the summer means making a lot of exciting plans for accommodations. In the fun of planning your summer vacation, do not forget to make some accommodations for keeping your home safe and secure while you are away. Nothing can spoil your vacation more than getting a call from neighbors saying your home has been broken in to, or coming home to find that your life has just been changed forever. Burglaries are no joke, and can spoil much more than your vacation.

The best way to ensure you have a happy, stress-free vacation is to do all that you can to ward off burglars and other criminals while you are away. Here are some ways to use your smart home security system to do just that.

Use Home Automation Scenes to Look Home

With smart home automation, the home never has to look unoccupied. Set different scenes to replicate varied activity in the home, with the lights, electronics and even air conditioning going off and on throughout the day.  This is a huge deterrence since burglars look for homes that show no signs of the residents being home in order to avoid being caught.

Set Up Alert for Smart Sensors

Your motion and glass break sensors are a huge plus when protecting your home while on vacation. By setting up alerts, you and the authorities can know immediately if anything is amiss. The motion sensor in you video doorbell can alert you to activity at the front door, which is the primary point of entry for burglars, and allow you to see who is there or the garage door opening unexpectedly could cause you to check video surveillance footage to verify activity and catch a criminal in the act. For example. \

Use Smart Locks

If you are gone or any length of time, you will probably have neighbors or others over to the house to bring in mail or attend to pets. Instead of having keys floating around, use smart locks which you can open remotely.

Have and Use Interior and Exterior Video Surveillance

Visible proof of home security and video surveillance is one of the best deterrents against crime, and having it provides the homeowner with an incredible tool for keeping their home safe while they are on vacation. Tap in to video footage any time to keep things in check and whenever you receive an alert you can act on the security threat immediately.

About Brinton Security

Brinton Security Services has been dedicated to “Protecting What Matters” since 2001 and provides residential can commercial services in Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.

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