The garage doors are ordinarily the largest movable components of the home. They basically safeguard the garages and their contents from unauthorized entry and access and may also serve as emergency exits in times of disasters.
Consequently, they have to be monitored throughout the day primarily to ensure that they are locked at all times and are also inaccessible to unauthorized persons. The Skylink GM-434RTL Garage Door Monitor which forms the subject of the subsequent review is one electronic device that may be used to constantly monitor the garage doors. Special thanks to AZ Garage Pros for some useful information.
Features and Specifications
The following are the major features and specifications of this garage door monitor:
· Product Dimensions: Measures 7 inches long by 5 inches wide by 1.5 inches thick
· Product Weight: Weighs 1 pounds (0.45 kg)
· Garage door monitor set.
· Monitors the sensors and their battery conditions automatically
· Programs: Accommodates up to 16 sensors in 4 zones
· Comes with 2 in 1 Alert & Alarm Modes
· Built-in a piercing 95 dB siren
· Both audio and visual indicators
· Operating range: Up to 800 feet
· Easy to set up
· FCC/IC approved
· Expandable system
· Alerts when motion is detected.
· Audio/Visual alert indicator
· One year warranty
Pros
Prospective users stand to reap the following and indeed many more other benefits from the garage door monitor:
· High Operational Range: The gadget has a very high operational range that is estimated to be approximately 800 feet in radius. This confers added convenience to the users as well as greater degrees of satisfaction.
· Easy to Set Up: This electronic gadget is “plug-and-play” in the sense that it only needs to be plugged into the power socket and switched on to deliver its services. Users of all levels of expertise, ranging from the totally unskilled to the very skilled ones will therefore find the device quite suitable for their liking.
· Highly Versatile: The electronic device is capable of multitasking i.e. carrying out several surveillance tasks at ago such as discharging both audio and visual signals, working with up to 16 different sensors in 4 different zones, and monitoring both the sensors and the battery conditions automatically. This not only brings along greater convenience but also ensures that the device returns as high value for money to the users as possible.
· Affordable: Its cost vis-à-vis that of similar products from competing manufacturers is quite low. This combined with the fact that it is highly versatile as explained above makes it a very worthy purchase indeed.
· Compact Size: With overall dimensions measuring around 7 inches long by 5 inches wide by 1.5 inches thick and with a weight of just about 1 pounds (0.45 kg), this garage door monitor is both light and compact enough to be lifted around and deployed to the desired point of use with as minimal inconvenience as can be.
· Expandable: It may be connected to other more or less similar gadgets such as garage door sensors, door/window sensors, and water alert sensors to increase the overall range of uses into which it may be put.
· Efficient: It is very efficient insofar as the fulfillment of its role of monitoring the garage doors is concerned. This is manly brought about by the fact that its siren generates piercing sounds of around 95 decibels. This ensures that the user does not miss out on any alerts.
· Reliable: Its reliability is vouched for by the sheer fact that it is approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Users can therefore be rest assures of seamless operations throughout the lifetime of the device.
Cons
Below is the most notable shortcoming of this garage door monitor:
· Intricate: Inasmuch as the manufacturer has made every attempt to ensure that it is as simple and easy to use as possible, users are still required to master some intricate technical jargons and know-how to be able to operate it effectively. This requirement is disadvantageous to those users with low skills.
Final Verdict
The search for the most suitable garage door monitor clearly ends with the encounter with the Skylink GM-434RTL Garage Door Monitor notwithstanding the aforementioned shortcoming. That’s because it is fairly cheap, easy to install, very efficient, and has a much wider range. Any serious home owner who is keen on enhancing the safety of his garage door clearly has no choice but to acquire it and make it a core part of his garage door.
According to FBI in every 16 seconds a home burglary happens in the United States. And mostly, when these burglaries happen most of the homes are usually empty. But who are these burglars? They are of two types: the amateur crooks that kick doors until it gives way and the highly skilled pros that start by watching a home before they can target it. With an effective security measure, you can be able to discourage the expert thieves and to beat any opportunist. However, your worry shouldn’t only relate to the bad people. The hazardous areas around your home may also hurt your family and friends. The following are some of the things you can do to make your home safer today and many years to come. Special thanks to Tempe Locksmith Pros for all the information.
. Install more than one lock
More than one lock on your door will make it hard for intruders to break in. And whether you have installed a deadbolt, a security chain or a lock set, you should be mindful of the individuals who have access to your home and keys. Don’t give your dog walker or babysitter all your keys and instead provide them with the key to your front door. This way, a burglar will only have access to the front door if the key falls into wrong hands or is lost. The same should apply to the car mechanic and valet attendant.
. Strengthen your locks
Around two thirds of all burglaries involve force entry which is mainly due to weak locks and poor mounting of hardware. To strengthen your locks you should consider replacing the strike and the metal plate mounted on your door jamb (which the lock bolt slides into). For around $10 you can strengthen the weakest locks. Another way to strengthen your locks is by replacing the short mounting screws with the 3 inch screws which reaches the studs of your doors.
. Prevent intrusion through the windows
Windows pose a greater risk. An intruder may easily break a window and reach the inside to unlock it. To fortify your windows, you can replace the regular glasses which are easier to break with the laminated windows which are similar to vehicle windshields. By installing a second glass layer and ensuring that panes are attached securely to the window frame will help. Position door locks more than an arm reach from the windows.
. Install a burglar alarm
Each and every year, around 1.8 million individuals install home security systems in their home. Research has shown that a home with a security system is thrice more likely to be intruded compared with residences with one. On average, to install a burglar alarm, you will pay between $100 and $1200 after which you will pay another $35 on average as the monitoring fee annually. There are many available options in the market to consider but you should look for a security system with a separate key pad and control panel. Those that feature the two in a single unit aren’t the best since the intruder can defeat before the alarm has notified the monitoring center. And because thieves are always looking for the things they can sell faster such as handguns, jewelry and cash, you should keep such items out of site.
. Install security cameras
Use strategic lighting to make it hard for intruders to break into your home undetected at night. Flood lights, outdoor motion detectors and security lighting close to the potential points of entry such as doors and windows will practically deter any unwanted visitor. For more security, consider installing security cameras. To keep a potential burglar away, put up signs indicating that you have installed a security camera in your home. And because most burglaries happen when you are out, you should set your indoor lights on a timer.
. Consider a security dog
A pooch will also contribute to your home security whether you need one as an addition or in lieu to a security system. But when looking for one, you shouldn’t assume that all dogs are equal. A guard dog will protect and defend your property – they aren’t pets. A protection dog on the other hand is a family dog which watches over people instead of the physical area. Rottweilers, German shepherds and Doberman pinschers are some of the best breeds for home protection. They respond perfectly to discipline and are also friendly with their family including children. While there are many dog trainers, you should only consider those that are reputable. If you need both the security system and a dog you should consider pet-immune motion detectors which announce intruders and not the pets.
When homeowners think about securing their property, they often think of pricey home security systems. Unfortunately, not enough homeowners consider the importance of protecting their garages, which often provide easy break-in points for burglars. This is especially dangerous if you have an attached garage, which leads straight into your home. To help you keep your garage and home secure, I’ve compiled a list of the best home garage alarms to help you sleep at night. Resources: Columbus Garage Door Pros walmart.com homedepot.com
GE Choice Alert System Garage Door Sensor
This model features a 150-ft operating radius. Its lithium battery will last upwards of 24 months. It offers easy wireless installation—no heavy installation or drilling is required. When the door is threatened, the sensor signals the control hub. This model accommodates four additional sensors, so it can monitor your garage and other locations. It’s easy to see why this model is #1 on our list of the best home garage alarms to help you sleep at night.
Skylink GS-101 Garage Alarms Door Sensor for AAA+
This unit provides settings that you can customize. Position the sensor on the garage door and, when your garage door is compromised, you can choose how the unit responds. Response options include sounding an alarm and calling as many as five phone numbers. It accommodates up to ten sensors and comes with a lithium 3-volt battery.
Doberman Security Motion Alarm Detector with Infrared Sensor
This alarm packs an earsplitting, 100dB alarm into a small package. It protects any entrance, including the entrance to your garage. It emits an infrared beam, which—when tripped—sets off the alarm. It can be placed on the ground or mounted on a wall or ceiling. It protects an area up to 15 feet and 60 degrees (horizontally and vertically).
Xena Motion Detector Garage Alarms
This model protects an area of 20 feetwith infrared beams. When the beam is tripped, a 135dB alarm goes off. Perhaps the best feature of this garage alarm is that it comes with code activation. When the alarm is triggered, you have 15 seconds during which you can enter a 4-digit code and cancel the alarm.
Skylink HA-434TL Wireless Long Range Household Alert and Alarm System
This unit features simple installation. It can be used independently or mounted onto a wall, ceiling, etc. I really like this system because it boasts a 40 foot, 110-degree coverage area. Additional sensors may be purchased separately. Sensors are powered by a 9-volt battery that is sold separately.
Optex Wireless Alert Driveway Alarm
This alarm provides security for both your garage and your driveway. Its long-lasting battery lasts upwards of 24 months. A single beam monitor protects an area up 50 feet long. A second beam constantly scans back and forth, covering a 15 feet distance.
WER Wireless Security Anti-Theft Alarm
This model made the list of the best home garage alarms to help you sleep at night because of its low price. It’s not quite as fancy as some of the other models on the list—it only covers a distance of about 15-25 feet—but it can do the basic job of protecting your garage with a loudness of 105dB. It’s controlled by a simple On/Off switch that is found on the two included remote controls and is powered by 4 AA batteries that are not included.
Ideal Security Inc. Garage Door Alert
This alarm has some advanced features that make it very user-friendly. It monitors the garage using wireless signals. When your garage is threatened, an alert is sent. The user decides on the type of alert that’s issued. It can be a loud alarm or an automated telephone call. The Ideal Security Inc. Garage Door Alert has a large coverage area (approximately 90-120 feet) and its transmitter is water-resistant. It is compatible with up to 6 additional sensors and is sold with the batteries included.
SABRE Elite Door, Shed, and Garage Alarm
This is another very affordable option. It easily mounts to a door or window frame. It has two settings. Use the “chime” setting to notify you when visitors are coming and going. Use the “alarm” setting to sound an alarm when an intruder attempts to enter. A nice feature that you don’t often see is a low battery indicator. This model runs on 3 AAA batteries that are not included.
Bubba’s Driveway Alarm – Wireless Motion Sensor Alert System
This item, sold by Bubba’s Home on Amazon.com, rounds out our list of the best garage alarms. It installs in just minutes without wires. It’s compatible with additional sensors simply by pushing a “pairing” button that’s located on the receiver. The sensors are water-resistant and cover an area up to 300 feet. Users can opt for an audio alert or a visual alert, in the form of blinking blue LED lights. It’s powered by 3 AAA batteries and 3 C batteries that are not included.
I hope you’ve enjoyed my list of the best home garage alarms to help you sleep at night! Choose the model that’s right for you and enjoy a good night’s sleep.
Moving is an exciting event that entails small to major changes that can be for the better. You and your family are possibly headed towards more beautiful surroundings and a refreshing new atmosphere. At the same time, it is also mostly overwhelming for there are just so many things to do. The typical image that comes to mind would be the packing and unpacking of boxes, however, there are a myriad of other important matters that must be taken care of. Obligations such as new mortgage payments, finding the right school, and familiarizing yourself with the neighborhood are just to name a few.
All the said preparations cause many people to forget about changing the locks, which is often overlooked yet actually a critical aspect during a move. It should be a priority that is probably the most important step to take if you wish to settle in home sweet home very soon. A house is called as such for giving you a cozy and comfortable space, and nonetheless a secure place to live in. The simple act of having your locks replaced can make a huge difference in the future that awaits you in your new home. Here are 5 Important Reasons Why You Should Change Your Locks When Moving: Resources: crosscountrymovers.org homedepot.com schlage.com
1. You Alone Hold the Key
Whether it’s a condo, townhouse, apartment, big house, or a mansion you’ll soon call your home, changing locks should be implemented prior to your move. Why? If there have been previous owners who lived there in the past, you will almost certainly never know how many keys have been duplicated and given to a spouse, family members, friends, and anyone else. They probably still have those keys to your home that could be anywhere on earth, and that is not such a nice thought. A new lock ensures you alone and the people you trust are the only ones who hold the key.
2. Safety Precaution
Truth is, even if it’s a brand new home that have just been built with the keys finally handed over to you, it’s still best to change locks. This almost eliminates the possibility of break-ins, theft or robbery, and stolen home appliances or furniture. A trusted locksmith sees to your utmost security by installing the best locks on all entry points of your house. You are granted unbeatable peace of mind with state-of-the-art lock systems that provide protection of your assets and property, and of course, function towards your family’s safety.
3. Preventing Emergency Cases
Nobody would like to be caught in a situation where they get locked out of their own home because of a faulty lock. It can also happen that a lock malfunctions and gets stuck in the middle of the night, leaving you vulnerable to undesirable events. Locks are subject to wear and tear and can become weak, especially the cheap quality or poorly installed locks. It can suddenly give up working at the most inconvenient time, which only proves that prevention is always better than cure. Thus, it is a wise choice to change locks before you find yourself seeking help during an emergency.
4. Upgrade to Superior Locks
State-of-the-art locks have a less likelihood of being compromised and are mostly often impenetrable. Moreover, the features are enhanced when a good locksmith does the job of installing them for you. You end up with properly working newly replaced door locks that will serve its purpose for long years. Contemporary locks are incorporated with the latest technology and standards, the highest quality and reliable durability that have been designed to meet your needs.
5. Priceless Peace of Mind
A new lock seems so simple, yet allows you to live a life free from constant fear and worries. A new door lock crafted with the highest standards, exhibits top-notch quality and performance, displays strength and durability makes it a good investment that gives you beyond your money’s worth. Everyone in the household achieves the highest quality of life by merely being able to have a safe and sound sleep throughout the night, knowing that danger is kept at bay. Moving into a new home has a lot of serious expenses involved, on top of your already existing assets and the huge value of the house itself. The cost of changing locks is very little but has tremendous benefits revolving around your safety, security, and peace of mind, which makes it priceless.
Moving to a new home is as exciting as it is challenging and often there are so many things to do that you might overlook the most important ones like security. As a first time home owner, the excitement of meeting new neighbors, unpacking, organizing mortgage payments and finding new schools for your kids can get you occupied to an extend that your home security gets clearly forgotten.
This should not be the case. If having a secure home with complete privacy is one of your concerns, then you should consider re keying your home or changing the locks as soon as possible. Your landlord or Realtor might not mention who the previous occupants were, and whether they handed over their keys before moving out. Apart from the previous occupants, there are contractors, the neighbors, the plumbers or even other family members who might have been given a copy of the key to your home by the previous owners. All these people are a potential threat to your security and privacy, unless you make an effort to change the locks or re key your locks.
One might argue that my home is a brand new home, hence there is no record of previous owners with copies of the keys thus there is no need to rekey or change the locks. Well, true as that might be, it is important to keep in mind that the contractors or developers keep a master key that can open several homes. Unless you change yours, then it is easy for such developers to get access to your home using the master key. Another possible argument with new homes is that since the locks were installed immediately before you moved in, there is no need to change them. This could be true, but can you trust whoever is telling you there are no copies of the keys? Just because someone says so, doesn’t necessarily mean it is true. Resources: Find Good Movers lowes.com homedepot.com
To change or re-key the locks
After deciding to make this change, what is the best way forward? Re keying the lock implies that the pins and springs are removed and replaced with new pins thus making it possible to open the lock with a different set of keys while the previous keys are invalidated. Re keying can involve alteration of the tumbler; change of water configuration or even for a key exchange. This is normally done by a professional locksmith and can be performed on any lock unless the lock is malfunctioning or if you want a totally different style.
The main purpose of re keying is to have control and accountability over all the keys that can access your home. After re keying, you can decide how many copies of the new keys you want and who should have the copies. In case the contractor had a master key to your home, there is a possibility of some master pins being left in your locks. These master pins are known to double the number of keys which can operate the lock thus a single lock can be operated by up to 16 different locks. Re keying the locks removes these master pins, thus invalidating the master key or any other copies.
Re keying can also make it possible to examine and correct the errors made during installation of the lock. These problems when corrected make the lock operate more efficiently. During re keying, the locksmith examines the condition of the lock and determines whether or not a replacement is required thus saving you money and time.
Replacing the locks is a more expensive, invasive and a complicated option and should only be chosen if the locks condition can’t allow re keying, if the current locks don’t seem reliable or there is need to upgrade to more strong and efficient locks. Although it is an expensive investment, it is worthy if you think of the people and property that need your protection.
Replacing the lock can also allow more convenience for instance if you want to accommodate the needs of persons living with disabilities in your home. Lever handle locks for instance are easier and more attractive to operate as compared to a knob. Deadbolts are also available. One advantage with deadbolts is the ability to use the interior thumb to operate without grasping. Electronic locks on the other hand can be picked if greater convenience is required. Thus, there are several options to choose from while changing the locks which can make your home more flexible and convenient for persons with differing needs.
Thus, to answer the question Should I Change or Re key My Locks When Moving To A New Home? The answer is simple, if the locks can allow, rekey since it is more cost effective in terms of time and money. However, if the lock’s condition can’t allow for instance due to wear and tear, then changing the locks might be the best option. If you want to keep your home secure and private, purpose to do either of this at least as soon as possible after moving in.
As a commercial property owner, it is of utmost importance to protect your commercial property from intruders and other disasters. In fact, this should be your first priority. Vandalism can really soil the image of your business and you do not want that to happen. Disaster strikes when least expected and there is property that is prone to destruction. Therefore, you must take the necessary precautions to lower risks and protect your property. Having said that, the following are the top 15 ways to effectively safeguard your commercial property. Resources: www.tempelocksmithpros.com homedepot.com adt.com
Ensure there is proper lighting
Lighting serves a vital purpose of providing maximum visibility especially at night. To prevent vandalism, all lighting fixtures should have vandal-proof covers. The perimeter wall should be properly lit so as to scare off robbers. All entry points such as doors, windows should be well lit as well.
Install solid doors
All doors in your commercial property should be solidly constructed and lined with heavy metal crossbars.
Install secure windows
Windows offer better security when fitted with secure locks and burglar-resistant glass. For improved security, install polyester security films with break sensor alarms. The rear windows are more vulnerable hence should be fitted with heavy metal grates.
Install alarm systems
Installing alarm systems in your commercial property helps to deter burglar activities. For guaranteed safety, it’s good to ensure the process is done by a licensed alarm company. The alarm company must have a central monitoring station. Besides, it should be checked regularly to ensure it functions optimally.
Care for the cash register
The cash register should be kept at a point where it’s not easily seen from outside the building. Ensure its open whenever it’s empty or not being used for easy monitoring.
Strong safes
To offer better protection, the safe must be burglar -resistant and fireproof. While it should be visible, it’s good to ensure it’s securely anchored. Keep the safe open when it’s empty and lock in all valuables at the end of the day. For the sake of your security , change the safe’s combination whenever you sack or release employees who have details regarding the safe.
Inspect the building’s exterior
Inspect your building’s exterior regularly to ensure all the openings are secured. Maintain proper landscaping to achieve better visibility. It’s also a good security measure to remove things like vehicle equipment , boxes , cans and trash bins away from the building to avoid burglars accessing the rooftop.
Perimeter fences
An ideal perimeter fence should be erected at heights which an intruder cannot be able to access your property. For a fence to serve its purpose, it should be vertically erected with 0.3 vinyl coated vertical iron bars.
Key controls
All commercial property keys should be handled responsibly. Ensure all the keys are coded and locked somewhere safely when they are not being used.
Install surveillance cameras in your commercial property
While they might cost you a significant amount of money, surveillance cameras play an important role of deterring burglars. Moreover, with these cameras installed in your commercial premises, it is possible to get the burglars after a break-in.
Use of Anti-climb fences
If your commercial property is of substantial size, consider putting an anti-limb fence or a wall around the perimeter.
Using Key-card access systems
The security of your commercial property should be taken seriously at all times. When security is at its topmost, your customers and employees will feel safe hence giving you more business. Introducing key-card access systems on exterior doors will ensure than unauthorized people do not access the premises.
Taking an Insurance cover
Taking an insurance cover can help you protect your property from unpredictable disasters such as fire breaks and burglary. Do enough research to find the reliable insurance company to offer you protection?
Conduct risk assessment
Do thorough investigations in order to evaluate the areas that require attention. It might happen that your commercial property is located in a crime-prone area or your fence needs repair and overlooking such things puts you in a risky situation.
Various disasters including fires, floods, break-ins and many more are a major concern for commercial property owners. There are many ways you can protect commercial properties. Meanwhile, criminals are becoming even smarter so it’s imperative to keep yourself updated with newer methods of protecting your commercial property.
· Compact Size: With overall dimensions measuring around 7 inches long by 5 inches wide by 1.5 inches thick and with a weight of just about 1 pounds (0.45 kg), this garage door monitor is both light and compact enough to be lifted around and deployed to the desired point of use with as minimal inconvenience as can be.
The search for the most suitable garage door monitor clearly ends with the encounter with the Skylink GM-434RTL Garage Door Monitor notwithstanding the aforementioned shortcoming. That’s because it is fairly cheap, easy to install, very efficient, and has a much wider range. Any serious home owner who is keen on enhancing the safety of his garage door clearly has no choice but to acquire it and make it a core part of his garage door.
Each and every year, around 1.8 million individuals install home 
A pooch will also contribute to your home security whether you need one as an addition or in lieu to a security system. But when looking for one, you shouldn’t assume that all dogs are equal. A guard dog will protect and defend your property – they aren’t pets. A protection dog on the other hand is a family dog which watches over people instead of the physical area. Rottweilers, German shepherds and Doberman pinschers are some of the best breeds for home protection. They respond perfectly to discipline and are also friendly with their family including children. While there are many dog trainers, you should only consider those that are reputable. If you need both the security system and a dog you should consider pet-immune motion detectors which announce intruders and not the pets.
This model features a 150-ft operating radius. Its lithium battery will last upwards of 24 months. It offers easy wireless installation—no heavy installation or drilling is required. When the door is threatened, the sensor signals the control hub. This model accommodates four additional sensors, so it can monitor your garage and other locations. It’s easy to see why this model is #1 on our list of the best home garage alarms to help you sleep at night.
This unit features simple installation. It can be used independently or mounted onto a wall, ceiling, etc. I really like this system because it boasts a 40 foot, 110-degree coverage area. Additional sensors may be purchased separately. Sensors are powered by a 9-volt battery that is sold separately.
Whether it’s a condo, townhouse, apartment, big house, or a mansion you’ll soon call your home, changing locks should be implemented prior to your move. Why? If there have been previous owners who lived there in the past, you will almost certainly never know how many keys have been duplicated and given to a spouse, family members, friends, and anyone else. They probably still have those keys to your home that could be anywhere on earth, and that is not such a nice thought. A new lock ensures you alone and the people you trust are the only ones who hold the key.
State-of-the-art locks have a less likelihood of being compromised and are mostly often impenetrable. Moreover, the features are enhanced when a good locksmith does the job of installing them for you. You end up with properly working newly replaced door locks that will serve its purpose for long years. Contemporary locks are incorporated with the latest technology and standards, the highest quality and reliable durability that have been designed to meet your needs.
The main purpose of re keying is to have control and accountability over all the keys that can access your home. After re keying, you can decide how many copies of the new keys you want and who should have the copies. In case the contractor had a master key to your home, there is a possibility of some master pins being left in your locks. These master pins are known to double the number of keys which can operate the lock thus a single lock can be operated by up to 16 different locks. Re keying the locks removes these master pins, thus invalidating the master key or any other copies.
Replacing the lock can also allow more convenience for instance if you want to accommodate the needs of persons living with disabilities in your home. Lever handle locks for instance are easier and more attractive to operate as compared to a knob. Deadbolts are also available. One advantage with deadbolts is the ability to use the interior thumb to operate without grasping. Electronic locks on the other hand can be picked if greater convenience is required. Thus, there are several options to choose from while changing the locks which can make your home more flexible and convenient for persons with differing needs.
To offer better protection, the safe must be burglar -resistant and fireproof. While it should be visible, it’s good to ensure it’s securely anchored. Keep the safe open when it’s empty and lock in all valuables at the end of the day. For the sake of your security , change the safe’s combination whenever you sack or release employees who have details regarding the safe.
While they might cost you a significant amount of money, surveillance cameras play an important role of deterring burglars. Moreover, with these cameras installed in your commercial premises, it is possible to get the burglars after a break-in.