Choosing Better Technologies

3 Must-Have Security System Features For Pet Owners

If you share your living space with a dog or cat, it's important that you are thinking about the security of your pets when you purchase a residential alarm system. Pets often remain in the home alone while family members go to work or attend school throughout the day.

The right security system will ensure that your pet is protected against a myriad of traumatic events in your absence. Pet-friendly features make residential alarm systems more convenient for pet owners to use each day.

1. Motion sensors that recognize weight.

Many modern alarm systems are equipped with motion sensors that trigger an alarm when unauthorized movement is detected. While these motion sensors help alert your alarm company to the presence of an intruder, they can be a real problem for homeowners with pets.

Be sure that your alarm system is equipped with motion sensors that recognize weight. A dog or cat typically weighs significantly less than a person, so weight-controlled sensors are able to tell the difference between your beloved animal and an intruder. These motion sensors prevent false alarms and help ensure that your home remains protected at all times.

2. Monitoring of the indoor atmosphere.

One fear that many pet owners share is the possibility of a fire breaking out while they are away. Pets are unable to open doors themselves, and their first instinct may be to hide during a fire. If you don't want your pet to perish in a house fire, invest in an alarm system that monitors the atmosphere inside your home.

Many residential alarm systems can detect changes in carbon monoxide levels and temperature, and identify smoke particles in the air. These monitoring features will ensure help is sent to your pet should a fire break out while you are out of the house.

3. Integration with home automation products.

Your pet has different needs when it comes to the climate within your home. Many homeowners turn their thermostat down in the summer when only a dog or cat will be home to conserve energy. Your pet may not need lights on during the day either.

Modern homes are often equipped with home automation products that allow homeowners to control lighting, temperature, and door locks from their smartphones or tablets. Being able to integrate these home automation products with your residential alarm system will give you the ability to customize your pet's environment without compromising his or her safety.