Topic: Security System
started by: Joink
Posted by Joink on Jun. 23 2015,9:45 pm
I have been interested in a home security system for some time now. I noticed a system offered by Total Security in the Shopper today for $1,499. Out of curiosity sake I checked the internet for prices and found the exact same system for $395. Now I don't begrudge a business to make a profit but if someone profits at $395 for the system. $1,499 in my opinion is damm near stealing from those that aren't internet savvy. Neither price includes installation. Total Security says in their ad " If you bought from someone else, you probably paid too much!" All I can say is "really".
Posted by Botto 82 on Jun. 24 2015,12:43 am
I know buying stuff online often implies some margin of savings, but that's a little ridiculous. Makes a person wonder how many have already been skewered with the $1,100 mark-up.
Posted by nzeroesc on Jun. 24 2015,12:55 am
Too many to count. It is a lucrative business model that preys on human insecurities. A couple years ago with the large rash of burglaries in the city, Vivint Security reps swooped into town and sold many systems as indicated by the dusting of little orange signs that popped up across yards in town. Those all came with hefty cancellation fees, long contracts, and many hidden charges.
With the proliferation of smart phones, and products such as < SmartThings > and < Lowes Iris > you can replicate nearly every single function of any contract home security and automation product with no contract and little or no monthly fees depending on your desired level of integration.
I currently use a SmartThings hub and have that connected to my door locks, open/close sensors, an outdoor and porch light, thermostat, as well as my Smoke/CO detectors. I get instant notification on my phone of any issues, all at no monthly cost beyond my regular phone/internet bill.
Posted by Self-Banished on Jun. 24 2015,4:35 am
Caveat emptor.
Posted by Botto 82 on Jun. 24 2015,5:38 am
(Self-Banished @ Jun. 24 2015,4:35 am)
QUOTE
Caveat emptor.
Nice work, Jethro. Way to elevate the discourse.
Nice system. Add a humidity monitor for when the plumbing goes wonko, and you'd have the whole magilla.
Posted by nzeroesc on Jun. 24 2015,5:52 am
Both Iris and SmartThings offer a few different moisture sensor options, from set in place sensors for temp/humidity and moisture, to wired water sensors for ware level such as a sump pit.I've never bothered, which may bite me is the ass some day, but with a perimeter drain in the basement, and being on fairly high ground, natural flooding is almost a non-concern, and a plumbing failure will be limited to the unfinished side of my basement in all likelihood.
Posted by Self-Banished on Jun. 24 2015,5:56 am
(Botto 82 @ Jun. 24 2015,5:38 am)
QUOTE
(Self-Banished @ Jun. 24 2015,4:35 am)
QUOTE
Caveat emptor.
Nice work, Jethro. Way to elevate the discourse.
Lean how to shop dumbass.
Posted by Botto 82 on Jun. 24 2015,6:01 am
Aaaand here we go...
Posted by Self-Banished on Jun. 24 2015,6:03 am
Funny, I was thinking the same about you 
Posted by Botto 82 on Jun. 24 2015,6:07 am
(nzeroesc @ Jun. 24 2015,5:52 am)
QUOTE
Both Iris and SmartThings offer a few different moisture sensor options, from set in place sensors for temp/humidity and moisture, to wired water sensors for ware level such as a sump pit.
I've never bothered, which may bite me is the ass some day, but with a perimeter drain in the basement, and being on fairly high ground, natural flooding is almost a non-concern, and a plumbing failure will be limited to the unfinished side of my basement in all likelihood.
I've never bothered, which may bite me is the ass some day, but with a perimeter drain in the basement, and being on fairly high ground, natural flooding is almost a non-concern, and a plumbing failure will be limited to the unfinished side of my basement in all likelihood.
It's nice being in the nearly-flood-proof part of town. I enjoy that where I live. I was thinking more along the broken pipe route. I've worked in apartment maintenance, and have seen firsthand how rapidly the expensive damage stacks up when that happens. A remotely-operated water main shutoff would be a nice thing, now that I think of it.
Posted by nzeroesc on Jun. 24 2015,8:14 am
< http://www.lowes.com/pd_579898-255-8810300L_0__?productId=50134588 >