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Home Security System Tips
Thinking about getting a home security system? From systems that offer basic security to smart home monitoring with automated features, there's a lot to choose from. But with so many options—wired, wireless, DIY, monitored—it can be tough to figure out what actually makes the most sense for your space and budget.
In this article we'll take a look at different types of home security systems, key features, installation choices, and other factors that can help you decide what kind of system best fits your needs.
What makes a good home security system?
A good home security system is one that ideally provides you with multiple layers of protection, giving you a mix of tools with prevention, monitoring, and emergency response features.
Here's a breakdown of some of the key components of an effective home security system:
Device or component |
What it does |
Control panel or hub |
Connects and manages all other components, and can also be configured to connect to a monitoring service |
Door/window sensor |
Detects door or window opening unexpectedly and triggers an alert on detection |
Motion detector |
Senses movement in or outside your house (depending on placement) and can be set to activate cameras or trigger an alarm |
Security camera |
Records surroundings when activated. Depending on system chosen, features could include: • Live video monitoring • Motion-triggered recording • Remote access |
Alarm/siren |
Emits loud sound when activated or triggered |
Glass break sensor |
Detects sound of breaking glass and triggers an alert on detection |
Smoke and CO detector |
Activates alarm when smoke/fire or carbon monoxide leak is detected |
24/7 service provider monitoring |
Service that provides professional, around-the-clock monitoring and alerts emergency services when necessary |
Wireless vs. wired home security systems
When shopping for a home security system, one of your first decisions will be whether you should go with a wired system or opt for a wireless one instead. Let's take a closer look at how both types of systems are set up, as well as some of the key pros and cons of each.
How are home security systems wired (and how do wireless systems work)?
In a wired home security system, the various devices in the system—such as motion sensors, door and window sensors, and alarms—are connected to a central control panel or hub using physical wiring. Because the wiring is hidden behind walls and in ceilings, wired systems usually require professional installation (and in newly constructed homes, they're often installed during the construction process).
Monitoring in a wired system is typically done through landlines, although newer models might use Internet or cellular communications instead (or as a backup). And a wired system is powered via the home's electrical system, with many systems incorporating a battery backup which takes over if you lose power.
A wireless home security system, on the other hand, uses Wi-Fi or cell signals to connect the different devices that make up the system. And, while the central hub of a wireless system usually plugs into a power outlet, many of the components making up the system tend to be battery powered—although devices such as cameras or alarms might be wired. The wireless aspect of these systems means they're easier to install, since you won't need to run wires or cables behind walls or in ceilings.
Wired or wireless: How to decide which is best for your needs
Choosing between a wired or wireless home security system comes down to what matters the most to you. To help you decide, the table below sets out some of the key pros and cons of each type of system.
Type of system |
Pros |
Cons |
Wired |
• More reliable. Not affected by Wi-Fi disruptions and signal interference • Less battery maintenance. Systems are hard-wired, so only the batteries in the backup system need maintenance • More secure. Systems are less vulnerable to risks such as hacking and signal jamming. • Stable connection. No risk of dropped signals or dead zones rendering a component or device unusable. • No range limitations. Works well in larger homes with multiple entry points. |
• More complex to install. Wires need to be run behind walls or through floors/ceilings, and professional installation is generally advised. • Non-portable/not easily portable. Wired systems are usually designed to be difficult to remove or disable, in order to reduce the risk of tampering. • Exposed wiring. Intruders can disable the system or parts of the system by cutting exposed wiring. • Higher upfront cost. Wired home security systems are typically more expensive and often require professional installation. |
Wireless |
• Ease of installation. No wiring or drilling is necessary, making it a better DIY option. • Portable/easily moved. Individual components can be repositioned, and the entire system can be easily moved to your next home. • Expandable. Can easily add new devices or components without additional wiring or rewiring. • No exposed wiring. Intruders can't disable the system by cutting exposed wires. • Not reliant on home's electrical system. Components are typically battery-powered, so are not affected by power outages. |
• Wi-Fi or cellular dependant. Weak signals, signal interference, and Wi-Fi disruptions can impact the system's functionality. • Battery maintenance. Batteries need to be monitored and replaced regularly. • Wireless interference. Other wireless devices in your home may cause connectivity issues. • Hacking vulnerability. System may be vulnerable to signal jamming and other cyber threats if cybersecurity software isn't properly installed or regularly updated. • Higher ongoing costs. System requires regular battery replacement and may need an ongoing cellular monitoring subscription. |
Installation costs: How much does it cost to install a home security system?
Going the DIY route will usually be your cheapest installation option since you won't be hiring someone to do the work for you. But if you're not comfortable with tech, want the reassurance of an expert doing the installation for you, or prefer the reliability of a wired system, you'll most likely want to have your system professionally installed.
When you hire a pro to do the installation for you, several factors can affect the installation cost, including the size or age of your home, the number of devices making up your system, and the complexity of the installation, such as whether the installer will need to drill into walls or route wires through ceilings. It's always a good idea to do some research: Read online reviews, ask family and friends for recommendations, and call around for quotes.
Secure your home with or without a subscription? Local (self-monitored) vs. monitored security systems
Local or self-monitored systems will cost less on an ongoing basis because you won't need to pay monthly monitoring fees. With a local system, you'll be alerted to any issues directly, usually through notifications sent to your mobile phone. One of the main drawbacks? The system relies on you to call for help directly, which means you may run into issues if you miss an alert, see it too late, or are unable to respond quickly.
A monitored home security system connects you to a professional monitoring service that watches for any alerts generated by your system on an around-the-clock basis. If an intrusion, fire, or other type of emergency is detected, the service will work to verify the issue and contact emergency responders if necessary. While you'll need to pay ongoing fees for monitoring, it offers the benefit of a quick response even if you're unavailable or miss a notification.
Costs of monitored home security systems in Canada
With a monitored system, you're paying for 24/7 support—someone is always on standby for any alerts coming from your system and ready to take appropriate action. Your cost will vary based on the monitoring plan you choose. For example, basic monitoring that covers only fire or break-ins will be less costly than plans that bundle in extras like video monitoring or other smart home features.
A long-term contract can often bring your monthly cost down, but keep in mind you'll be locked in for the duration of the agreement. A month-to-month plan is more flexible but will usually cost more. Make sure to compare plans side by side when assessing costs, since the coverage and features offered can vary quite a bit.
Smart home monitoring: What are some advanced or automated features for smarter home security?
Many home security systems on the market today offer a number of advanced or automated features to complement the system's base components. Often called smart home monitoring, these systems let you control and monitor your home security remotely via a mobile app—providing you with a system that's versatile enough to use for a number of situations, from deterring break-ins, checking on parcel deliveries when you're not home, and possibly even detecting leaks before they become a flood.
The following table sets out some of the advanced or automated features that may be offered by home security or smart home monitoring systems today.
Feature |
What it does/how it works |
Remote access and control |
Use a mobile app to: • Arm or disarm your system • Check security cameras • Receive real-time alerts |
Smart locks |
Use a mobile app to: • Lock and unlock doors remotely • Set up temporary access codes (for example, for guests or cleaners) |
Motion-activated cameras |
• Saves storage space because cameras only start recording when motion is detected • Some cameras use AI technology to distinguish between people, pets, and vehicles |
Environmental monitoring |
• In addition to smoke and carbon monoxide, can also sense water leaks or flooding • Some systems can automatically turn off water valves |
Voice control integration |
• Many systems can work with voice assistants, enabling the use of voice commands like "show me the front door" to control the system |
Geofencing |
• Sets a virtual boundary or "geofence" around your home • Uses your phone's location to determine where you are in relation to this virtual boundary • Can be set to take specific actions based on your phone's location (for example, arm the system when you leave or disarm it when you return home) |
Different smart home monitoring systems may offer different features, so be sure to investigate what’s being offered to see if the system or service meets your needs.
Home security systems for renters and apartments
Are you a tenant interested in a home security or smart home monitoring system? Just because you're renting doesn't mean you have to sacrifice security. While your choices will be limited to wireless home security systems (since you don't own the building or unit you're in, so you can't make the permanent changes that wired systems require), a wireless system can still help keep your belongings secure. And in addition to their ease of set up, most wireless systems are just as easy to dismantle and pack up, so you can take the system with you when your lease ends.
What is the best type of home security system in Canada?
The most effective home security system is the one that works for you. So, the best type of system could be anything from a fully monitored setup for a detached house to a simple, wireless system for a small rental apartment.
Think about how much space you need to cover, whether you want 24/7 monitoring, and how much you want to pay. The key is to find a home security system that fits your home, lifestyle, and budget.
How else can you add to your sense of security? Invest in home insurance from TD Insurance.
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