Many DIY home security systems offer users the option to either pay for 24/7 professional monitoring or use the self-monitoring option. The difference is who is monitoring and how quickly they can respond to alerts.
How A Monitored System Works
- Your security system sends an alert to a central monitoring station and some systems send the alert to your smart phone as well.
- An operator contacts your home to check on the situation. They call to verify the situation and screen out expensive false alarms.
- If necessary, the operator contacts first responders, dispatches them to your house, and provides important information about the emergency.
- Important: Most insurance companies offer discounts only for professional monitoring.
GetSafe’s 24/7 security monitoring is $35/month with no contract.
How Self-monitoring Works
DIY security monitoring systems differ, but here are the basics:
- Your security system sends an alarm alert to you via your smartphone.
- You evaluate the situation by calling your home, checking your 1080p security camera feed, or using other methods, depending on the system you have.
- If necessary, you contact first responders, describe the situation, and ask them to respond.
We offer self-monitoring via the GetSafe app for just $25/month (includes AT&T cellular backup).
No Electricity? No Internet? No Problem
No matter which GetSafe plan you choose, we offer added layers of security.
- Batteries: Our sensors and SmartHub are battery-powered.
- AT&T cellular backup: If your Internet or power goes out, the pre-installed AT&T 3G SIM card in your SmartHub can still communicate with our call center and/or send push notifications to your smartphone.
No Monthly Fee, Unmonitored Security Systems
At GetSafe, we think having 24/7 monthly monitoring is the heart of any security system, but we understand what it’s like to be on a tight budget. Above all, we want you to be safe and secure in your home. These companies offer unmonitored home security systems for no monthly cost.
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Arlo |
Canary |
Piper |
Nest Dropcam |
|
Base Cost |
$179 |
$199 |
$199 |
$199 |
|
Website |
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Battery Backup |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
|
Cellular Backup |
No |
No |
No |
No |
|
HD Camera |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Real-time Viewing |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Sound Detection |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Video Storage |
7 days |
12 hours |
100 video snippets |
Subscription Required |
|
2-Way Communication |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Door/Window Sensors |
No |
No |
$39.95 |
No |
|
Alarm Siren |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Fire/Smoke Monitoring |
No |
No |
No |
No |
|
Flood Monitoring |
No |
No |
$39.95 |
No |
|
Keychain Remote |
No |
No |
No |
No |
|
Temperature Monitoring |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Remember: these are all good security camera options, but a complete home security solution is more than a camera. Without a security system, your home is vulnerable to intruders, fires, and floods. Cameras help you monitor what’s happening in real time. A system with remote arming/disarming options, entry sensors, smoke alarms, and flood monitors let you react to an event more quickly, before it becomes an emergency situation.
3 Reasons To Choose GetSafe’s 24/7 Monitoring Option
1) We’re always standing by. Get some sleep, go on vacation, or attend that Little League game. Our USA-based operators are on duty 24/7 and respond when you can’t.
2) There’s no contract. Never get locked into a long-term contract. You can cancel at any time.
3) Lower insurance rates. Most insurance companies offer discounts only for professionally monitoring.
Learn more about GetSafe’s wireless home security products and monitoring options.