How to Tie Home Security and Home Automation Together for Maximum Security

In today’s digital age, securing our homes has become more critical than ever before. We no longer rely on traditional locks and keys but instead opt for advanced home security systems and smart home automation. Combining these two technologies can help us achieve maximum safety and convenience.

In this blog post, we will explore how to tie home security and home automation together for maximum security. We will discuss the latest technology trends and the benefits of integrating these systems. So, read on to learn more!

What are Home Security and Home Automation?

Security and home automation are not synonymous terms. Home automation is a somewhat broader term that covers a wide range of products and applications that enhance the comfort of your home while securing it. Security systems, on the other hand, focus on keeping your home secure from burglaries and break-ins. Home automation systems also help in keeping your home secure, but in addition to that, they cover a range of other applications, including controlling your home’s electronics remotely.  

How Do Home Security and Home Automation Work Together?

Home security and home automation are two distinct technologies, but when integrated, they can work together to provide a comprehensive solution for home safety. Home automation provides an extra layer of protection by giving users the ability to control their home’s security systems remotely.

This way, users can arm and disarm their alarm systems, receive alerts when their home’s security is breached, and even activate surveillance cameras to monitor the inside and outside of their homes.

Home automation also offers convenient features, such as being able to remotely control lighting and appliances, as well as access & view real-time energy usage data. Home security systems, on the other hand, are designed to detect intrusions and protect the home from burglaries, fires, and other disasters. This includes door and window sensors, motion detectors, and an alarm system.

Examples of Home Security and Home Automation

Examples of home automation and smart security are all over the Internet. Take a look around the Internet to find your favorites.

1. Common items: -Home automation should happen everywhere. Our favorite examples:
Motion sensor light: Photocell light switches and motion sensor lights are great, but we found LED light bulbs and motion sensing lights were much easier to install. Plus, a motion sensor light doesn’t have to be connected to the power grid.

2. Doorbell – Ring doorbells, Nest doorbells, and chime doorbells are great options for anyone looking to get smart about doorbells. Nest can even be controlled remotely via a companion application.

3. Thermostat –  The Nest Thermostat and ecobee3 are great options that help you save energy and money. Nest works as a learning thermostat, meaning that it can learn your preferences and automatically update the thermostat settings.

4. Security Cameras – Nest Cam Indoor, Nest Cam Outdoor, and Samsung SmartThings all make excellent security cameras for streaming live video.

5. Window sensors –  Nest and Ecobee both make window sensors that sound an alarm if a window is opened.

6. Locks –  The August Smart Lock and August Connect are both great ways to control who’s allowed in and out of your home.

7. Consider combining –  Some items, like smart lights and locks, can be combined. We mounted our smart lights to our front door’s door frame (this way they stay on constantly). Then, we paired our smart locks to the door and door handle, so when we unlock the door, our smart lights automatically turn on.

8. Nest Cam Indoor – Nest Cam Indoor’s two-way talk feature lets you converse with people at your door remotely, so you don’t have to open the door. Plus, you can trigger the camera’s recording remotely, so you never have to miss anything.

9. Smart Door locks – The August Smart Lock is compatible with Nest Cam Indoor’s two-way talk feature, so you can speak to people at the door via the Nest Cam app, even if you have the August Smart Lock installed.  

How to Design a Home Security System with Automation for Maximum Security

Security systems these days sometimes have so much automation that a homeowner can actually worry if only they can arm their system. Additionally, some home automation systems are so complex that the homeowner is afraid they’ll trip over themselves trying to work it. Luckily, we’re here to break down the home automation features that every smart home security system should have.

Home automation can be great, but every technology should come with a purpose. A security system should be a monitoring system for intrusion, fire, and carbon monoxide, and home automation should bring these benefits to life. This brings us to our next point.

Home automation should bring peace of mind, not stress. Security systems shouldn’t put homeowners on edge, financial systems shouldn’t add another layer of complexity, and home automation shouldn’t make lighting or temperature controls harder to use. 

 Here are some home automation features that should be included in a smart home security system:

1. Automatic Door Lock – Automatic door locks are an important part of home automation as they allow you to control your home’s door locks remotely. This means you can lock or unlock your doors from anywhere, ensuring your home is always secure. 

2. Motion Sensor Lights – Motion sensor lights are a great way to make sure your home is illuminated when motion is detected. This can be a great security feature and can also be used to save energy. 

 3. Smart Home Security Cameras – Smart home security cameras are a great way to monitor your home for intruders or any suspicious activity.  With features like motion detection and night vision, you can keep an eye on your home from anywhere. 

4. Remote Temperature Control – Remote temperature control allows you to control the temperature in your home remotely. This can be used to keep your home comfortable without having to manually adjust the thermostat. 

5. Smart Doorbells – Smart doorbells are a great way to keep your home secure. They can be used to monitor who is at your door and can even be used to make video calls. 

6. Smart Locks – Smart locks are a great way to secure your home. They can be used to lock and unlock your doors remotely and can be programmed with different access codes for each person.

7. Voice-Activated Assistants – Voice-activated assistants like Amazon Echo,  Google Home, and Apple Homepod can be used to control various aspects of your smart home. They can be used to control lights, thermostats, and other security devices.

8. Automated Lighting – Automated lighting can be used to turn lights on and off based on a schedule or when motion is detected. This is a great way to save energy and make your home more secure. 

 9. Home Security Cameras – Home security cameras can be used to monitor your home and keep it safe from intruders. They can be used to record footage and even be used to alert you when something is amiss.

10. Smart Thermostats – Smart thermostats can be used to save energy by automatically adjusting the temperature based on your preferences. They can also be used to monitor and control your heating and cooling systems remotely.

Explore Options for Tying Your Home Security Systems into Your Home Automation System

There are a handful of things you can do to get smarter protection, and one of them is to link your smart home security system with the rest of your home automation system. There are plenty of options available, so we’ll explain some of the best ones here!

1. Network-based cameras – Network-based cameras are popular because they allow you to monitor important areas of your home, such as your home’s front door, while you’re away. Many of these cameras can connect to other smart home products, such as your smart lock. You can get alerts when the camera detects movement, allowing you to know if someone’s at the door without having to be there in person.

Network-based cameras are also good for keeping track of your pet. It’s possible to set up motion-sensitive cameras at strategic places around your home, allowing you to check in anytime you worry about the safety of your pet.

2. Smart lighting – Smart lighting is another option that can work in conjunction with your security. Should an alarm go off, the lights can automatically turn on, making it seem like you’re home.

Lighting can also be automated if you’re not home, based on a schedule you set. For instance, you could set the lights to turn off and on randomly so it looks as though someone is home. Plus, some lights can be synced to motion, allowing you to automatically turn on the lights if someone circles your home at night. You could also set up geofencing commands to have them turn on and off based on your location.

3. Smart doorbells – A smart doorbell isn’t just for looks. It lets you see who’s at the door without having to physically answer it. You can say goodbye to missing delivery men, packages, and random strangers at the door.

Smart doorbells can also be connected to your smart locks. If a delivery man shows up with a package, the smart doorbell unlocks the door to let them in. A smart doorbell can also let you see who it is even if you’re not home, so if you’re on vacation and you want a delivery, you can avoid getting charged a delivery fee by leaving a note on the door asking the delivery person to try again later.

4. Smart Locks – We’ve got a dedicated article on smart locks, but if you want to read a quick summary, smart locks are mounts outside of your door that let only people with approved codes or biometrics gain entry. They’re perfect for letting in delivery men, house sitters, and more. Smart locks can also be connected to your smart doorbells, so you can receive notifications when someone is trying to enter your home. Smart locks are also great for security, as they are almost impossible to pick.

Smart doorbells and smart locks are a great way to add an extra layer of security to your home and can make it easier to receive deliveries and visitors. They are also an easy way to keep an eye on your home when you’re away. 

Find out How to Maximize Your Home Security by Adding Security cameras, Smart Home Devices, and other Security Systems

Security cameras are now easy to set up, and they are also cost-effective. A security camera or a home security camera system can monitor and record vital areas of your home, including the perimeter of your property. The camera itself is usually connected to a network video recorder (NVR), which stores and manages the recordings. Typical security cameras use either an analog or a digital recording format, but NVRs that use an analog format is being replaced by NVRs that use an IP recording format and can connect over broadband to a wireless network.

Your options for security camera systems vary depending on the number of cameras you would like to purchase, the resolution of the cameras, the amount of storage, etc. The different components you might want to consider include:

1: Security cameras
2: NVR
3: IP cameras
4: Wireless cameras
5: IP cameras with pan/tilt capabilities
6: Indoor and outdoor cameras
7: DVR
8: Infrared (IR) cameras

Security cameras that directly connect to a wireless network, such as a security system or a home security camera system, are convenient to monitor your home. If the location where you want to install your camera does not have an accessible connection to a wired network, you can use a wireless camera, which you can connect over WiFi.

Setting up a security camera system is affordable, but remember that the security of your system depends on the quality of the equipment and installation done by professionals. Consider consulting a security professional to find the right security camera system for your property.

Security cameras are surveillance tools that record visual images from your property. A camera is able to capture images, record videos, and display the images on a monitor. If you have a detection device, such as a smoke alarm, motion detector, or flood detector, you can connect the camera to it so that you can view both the camera and the device at the same time.

When using a wireless security camera, it is important to secure your network to prevent unauthorized access. This includes setting up a strong password and using encryption. Once you have a secure network, you can configure the camera to record footage directly to the cloud, which can be accessed remotely. You can also set up motion detection so that the camera will only record when motion is detected.

When it comes to installation, it is important to make sure that the cameras are placed in the right spots. It is a good idea to have a professional come in and install the cameras for you, as they will know exactly where to place the cameras for optimal coverage.

Using security cameras can help to protect your home or business from intruders and other dangers. With the right setup, you can easily monitor your property from anywhere and be alerted to any potential threats.

The Latest Home Security Systems that Feature Automation Capabilities

Smart security systems are going to become even more prevalent in our homes and we are going to rely on them more, which also means that we need to give them careful consideration. You don’t want to end up with a system that doesn’t work properly or doesn’t work at all, and you also don’t want a system that’s too complicated to use; after all, there’s no time to sit there and program the lighting, locks, temperature, etc. just right, so you want something that’s easy to use.

Stick with smart systems which offer a wide range of features, such as Amazon’s Alexa, Google’s Assistant, and IFTTT recipes. While you’re at it, look for those systems which allow you to control the lighting, locks, thermostat, surveillance cameras, etc. with voice commands.  If you’re looking for something with a little more sophistication, consider systems that offer facial recognition or biometrics, such as fingerprint or Iris scanning.

Some of the top home security systems that offer automation capabilities include:

1. Vivint Smart Home: This is a  comprehensive system that offers automated control of lighting, locks, thermostats, and surveillance cameras.

2. Nest Secure: Nest Secure offers a variety of automation options, including the ability to remotely control lights and locks and manage temperature from a phone or tablet.

3.  SimpliSafe: SimpliSafe is a budget-friendly option that offers home automation features such as remote locking and unlocking, automation of lights and temperature, and voice control with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

4. ADT Pulse: ADT Pulse is a comprehensive system that supports the automation of lighting, locks, thermostats, and surveillance cameras, and offers facial recognition and biometrics.

5. Abode  Home Security: This system offers home automation capabilities, including remote control of lights, locks, and thermostats, as well as the ability to manage surveillance cameras and receive alerts.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Integrating Home Security and Home Automation Systems

If you’re looking to integrate a home security system and home automation system, there are many drawbacks and benefits, such as:

• • Secures your home 24/7: Having home automation systems, smart locks, security cameras, motion sensors, and smoke detectors means that your home will be protected 24/7.

• • Saves money: You can save a ton of time and energy with home automation because you’ll use less energy by controlling your thermostat remotely.

• • Stay safe: You can make sure your home is secure with home automation, especially while you’re traveling.

• • Home automation is convenient: You can control your lights, locks, thermostat, and more with your smartphone.

• • Helps you keep an eye on your pets: Get peace of mind knowing that your pets are safe while you’re away.

• • Alarms not monitored: The security system’s alarm feature isn’t monitored.

• • Lack of customization: Depending on how many smart home devices you have, your home automation system might be incredibly basic.

• • Home automation is a trap for hackers: You’re in danger of hackers hijacking your home.

• • Hub glitches: There’s a lot of potential for glitches in the hub that makes your home automation system work, such as turning your lights on and off at random times, or triggering an alarm for no apparent reason.

• • Warranty issues: You’ll need to purchase warranty coverage on your hub and smart devices.

• • Home automation is overkill: There are countless home automation products on the market, making it easier for you to have too much.

• • Monthly fees: You may have to pay monthly fees to use certain home automation services.

• • Installation can be tricky: Installing home automation systems can be tricky and time-consuming, and you may not be able to do it yourself.

• • Lack of support:  If you have problems with your home automation system, you may not be able to find the help you need. 

What to Consider When Integrating Home Security and Home Automation Systems

There are a lot of integration options (visit also our topic on how to get started with home automation integration for smart home systems) between security and home automation systems, like garage door openers, door sensors, ( see also our blog post on how to secure your garage door) motion sensors, and thermostats.

If there’s one home automation system we wished existed, it’s a smart lock that seamlessly connects to our security system. Right now, our smart locks work independently, meaning we have to enter the passcode for both of them separately. Ideally, we’d be able to enter a security code on the mobile app, and that code would unlock our smart lock as well.

We should also mention smart lights, smart thermostats, and other devices that can be added to a home automation system.

Because we have security systems installed on both sides of our duplex, we’d like to use smart lights that automatically turn on or off when we arm or disarm the security system in our home. Next, we’d like to sync our smart lights with our security system so that if our security system is triggered, the lights flash or turn red, indicating that there’s a problem.

We should also mention that our smart thermostat can connect to our security system, too. If we leave the house, our home should begin to cool or heat up at a predetermined time so we’re not wasting money heating or cooling an empty house.

With everything laid out, let’s get back to what you should look for when integrating home automation and security systems. 

First, you should look for a system that is user-friendly and intuitive. It should be easy to control and manage all of your devices from one single app or interface. 

Second, you should make sure that the system is secure and reliable. Look for a system that uses encrypted data and secure connections. It should also have multiple layers of protection against hackers and other threats.

Third, you should make sure that the system provides interoperability between different devices. This will allow you to easily control different types of smart home devices and systems from one single platform without having to manage multiple applications.

Finally, you should make sure that the system is compatible with your existing security system. This will ensure that the home automation and security systems work together seamlessly.

Tips for Choosing the Best Home Security and Home Automation System Combination

When shopping around for the best home automation and security system combination, do a price comparison. What is a reasonable price to pay? If you’re looking to save money, there are options out there for under $100.

But if you’re looking for the best security possible, be prepared to spend a bit more. But you certainly don’t have to spend thousands to ensure that your home is safe. There are budget-friendly options available, and if you find one that you really love, you can always find someone in your organization or business to chip in for an IoT gift. 

Next, make sure that the home automation and security system you choose is compatible with your existing security system. (check also our guide on how to choose the right wired security systems for your home or business) You should also read up on the features and security protocols of the home automation and security system you’re considering. Make sure that it offers the features you need and that it is compatible with other home automation and security products.

Finally, make sure that the home automation and security system you’re considering is user-friendly. 

Conclusion

Tying home security and home automation together is essential for maximizing security in your home. With the advancements in technology, it’s easy to ensure that your home is safe and secure even when you’re away. Integrating smart home technology into your home security system is the best way to achieve this goal.

Go Safer Security is a home security and automation company located in Maryland, USA, creating smart, reliable, and affordable home security systems. They provide custom-designed solutions to meet your specific security needs. Their expert technicians ensure that your system installation and setup are seamless and secure, allowing you to have peace of mind and confidence in your home security.

Don’t compromise on home security. Contact Go Safer Security today to inquire about their state-of-the-art home security systems and expert installation services. Take the first step towards securing your property, your valuables, and your loved ones. (vist also our blog for other ways to increase your home security)