In today’s world, home security is more important than ever. Rampant crime and home burglaries make having a reliable home alarm monitoring system crucial for ensuring your family’s safety and peace of mind. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information about home alarm monitoring in Toronto and the GTA.

Understanding Home Alarm Monitoring

A home alarm monitoring service keeps a constant watch on your home alarm system. A Home alarm monitoring service ensures your hardware is always operational and ready in case of any threat. When an alarm is triggered, the monitoring company is immediately notified and takes appropriate action, such as contacting the authorities or sending a security team to your location.

The Importance of Home Alarm Monitoring

• 24/7 Protection: Home alarm monitoring services are designed to give you peace of mind. Your home is safeguarded with a top-notch alarm system and a team of highly trained professionals always ready to respond to any alarm.
• Rapid Response: In the event of an emergency, the monitoring company can quickly dispatch the appropriate authorities to your location, minimizing the risk of damage, injury or loss.

Finding the Right Home Alarm Monitoring Service

When choosing a home alarm monitoring service in Toronto and the GTA, there are several factors to consider, such as pricing, reliability, and the type of technology used.

Pricing

Home alarm monitoring services typically charge a monthly fee, which can range from $20 to $60 or more, depending on the features and level of service provided. Be sure to compare prices before making a decision, and keep in mind any additional costs, such as equipment or installation fees.

Reliability

When it comes to home security, reliability is critical. Alarvac is an alarm monitoring company in Toronto with a proven track record of providing reliable and responsive service. Our company’s experience and reputation in the industry are top-notch, making us an excellent choice for all your home security needs.

Home alarm monitoring services use various technologies to monitor and communicate with your security system. Some of the most common include:

• Landline: This traditional method uses a phone line to communicate with the monitoring center. While it may be more affordable, it is also more susceptible to disruptions caused by weather or phone line tampering.
• Cellular: This method uses cellular networks to communicate with the monitoring center, providing a more reliable and secure connection than a landline.
• Internet Protocol (IP): This method uses your home’s internet connection to communicate with the monitoring center, offering fast and reliable communication.

Alarvac: Toronto’s Premier Monitoring Service

Alarvac, in partnership with DSC, offers 24/7 API based home alarm monitoring services in Toronto and the GTA. With our reliable services and state-of-the-art technology, you can trust Alarvac to provide the protection and peace of mind you need.

24/7 Monitoring

Alarvac’s monitoring services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year ensuring that your home alarm system is always monitored. In the event of an emergency, our rapid response team is ready to take action and ensure your safety.

Advanced Technology

Alarvac uses cu􀆫ng-edge technology, such as GSM and IP-based equipment from leading brands like DSC, Honeywell and GE to provide reliable and secure communication with your home alarm system.

Affordable Plans

With plans starting as low as $19.95 per month, Alarvac offers affordable home alarm monitoring services without compromising on quality or reliability. Whether you have an existing security system or are looking to install a new one, Alarvac has an alarm system and a monitoring plan that fits your needs and budget.

Switching to a Alarvac Monitoring Service

If you currently have a home alarm system and are considering switching to Alarvac monitoring service, there are a few steps you should consider:

1. Gather Information: Collect the details about your current alarm system, such as the make and model number, which can typically be found on the alarm system or on the main panel. You should also be aware of the terms and conditions of your current contract, including any fees that may apply for early termination.
2. Make the Switch: Once you have reached an agreement with us, we will guide you through the process of transferring your service. This may involve reprogramming your existing alarm system or installing new equipment.

Additional Home Security Tips

There are several other steps you can take to enhance the security of your home:

• Install Security Cameras: Surveillance cameras can act as a strong deterrent to criminals, as well as provide valuable evidence in the event of a crime.
• Use Motion-Activated Lights: These can help to deter potential intruders by illuminating dark areas around your home.
• Secure Doors and Windows: Ensure that all entry points to your home are secure, using sturdy locks and reinforced doors and windows.
• Be Mindful of Social Media: Avoid sharing information about your travel plans or daily routine on social media, as this can make your home a target for burglars.

Conclusion

Home alarm monitoring is an essential component of a comprehensive home security strategy. By choosing a reliable and reputable monitoring service like Alarvac, you can ensure the safety and peace of mind of your family in Toronto and the GTA.

When you’re shopping for a Central Vacuum, trying to make sense of the specifications can be a little bit daunting.  You might run across two machines with nearly identical specs, but one costs a few hundred dollars more. Here’s how to make sense of Central Vacuum specs.

The Important Specs

Air Watts: This is essentially a measure of how much air the central vacuum can move under no-load conditions. It gives a general idea of how powerful the motor is, but of course, the motor never runs under no-load conditions.

Water Lift: This is a measure of how much actual suction the unit can provide under load.

HEPA Filter: This is an acronym for “High Efficiency Particulate Air” filter. This type of filter removes at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and other particles with a size of 3 microns or larger.

A/C Power: Most Central Vacuums run on 120v AC, and draw less than 15 amps of power. This means that you can plug them into a regular, dedicated household electrical outlet. Some very powerful units require a dedicate 240 volt A/C outlet.

Bagged, Bagless or Hybrid: Some manufacturers began promoting Bagless central vacuums as a savings to a customer. Other manufacturers followed suit, but Bagless is not a good thing. Firstly, because emptying your CV bucket is a dirty job, and more importantly, because the vacuum loses suction as the primary filter clogs up. If the primary filter develops a tear, or is dislodged, the dust can damage the motor, especially with a flow-through motor. With a bagged system, every time you change the bag, the vacuum is back to its original suction level. Hybrid, of course is a vacuum where you can choose bagged or bagless. We recommend always using a bag.

Muffler: This is an accessory that installs on the exhaust port of a central vacuum, and reduces the vacuum noise quite effectively.

Carbon Filter:  Central Vacuum motors all use Carbon Brushes in the motor. The brushes transfer electricity to the spinning motor armature, and are made of a material similar to very hard pencil lead, but bigger, of course. As the motor rotates, these will wear down, and eventually need to be replaced. The wear produces a find black dust which can sometimes get deposited on nearby walls.  Some Central Vacuums have a Carbon Filter, which captures the carbon dust.

Central Vacuum Accessory Kits

Air Kit: This Kit is suitable for houses with a minimum of carpet. The floor brush is plain, and does not have a beater brush. The handle usually has a switch to turn the vacuum on or off

Turbo Floor Brush: If you have a modest amount of carpeting, such as on stairs or some area rugs, then you may want to purchase a separate “Turbo” floor brush to go with your Air Kit. This brush has a beater brush that is powered by the airflow.

Electric Kit:  This kit is suitable for houses with a lot of carpeting. It contains all the items in the Air Kit, but also includes an electric beater brush, and electric wand, and an electrified hose. At the wall end of the hose, the hose will have a short power cord that you can plug into an outlet, or in some cases, the hose end contains an electrical plug which plugs into the vacuum outlet along with the hose end.

Hose Cover: This is a knitted cloth cover that goes over your hose, making it much easier to drag along the floor and around furniture

Garage Kit: This is an inexpensive kit dedicated for the garage. It contains a lightweight 30 foot hose and accessories, but no wand. Keep this in your garage, so you don’t have to carry the heavier household hose, and get the hose cover dirty.

Motor Types

Flow-Through Motor

How it works: With this motor, filtered air is sucked in through the turbines, and pushed out through the inside of the motor. This generally makes for a smaller motor, and efficient cooling because of the huge amount of air flowing directly past the armature (spinning coils). This motor is vulnerable to dust damage if the permanent filter is damaged, and heat damage if there is a blockage and the motor continues to run.

• Provides good performance at a reasonable price
• Not suitable for very large homes
• Must ensure that filters are clean and undamaged

Tangential Bypass Motor

How it works: This motor sucks filtered air in through the turbines, and pushes it out a separate vent. The filtered air that the vacuum sucks in never enters the motor chamber, the motor is cooled by its own fan. This motor is typically a little larger, but less vulnerable to dust or heat damage.

• Very good performance
• Suitable for all size homes
• May be somewhat more expensive
• Longer lasting, on average

Surveillance camera systems also known as security cameras are available in different configurations and with different features.  There is no one size fits all security camera.  The needs of a homeowner are different than the needs of a large commercial warehouse, which are different than the needs of a retail environment.  In this blog we will highlight some of the differences of security systems and their features.  Remember you should always consult a professional when designing and implementing your security camera system.

What is Surveillance camera system?

Technically a surveillance camera system and a security camera system are slightly different things.  Surveillance cameras work on an Internet Protocol (IP) and security cameras work on a closed loop structure.  It is the surveillance camera system combined with the internet that makes it so much more flexible, useful and therefore an important asset to your home or business.  

History of Surveillance camera system

The first motion picture camera was invented by Thomas Edison and his assistant William Dickson in 1888.  But it isn’t until 1942 that what could be called the first security camera system was created.  Nazi occupied Germany set up the first closed circuit television (CCTV) to monitor the launch of long range guided missiles.  Shortly after the end of the war CCTV system blossomed in America as large corporations and the government sought to keep track of assets and people.  These systems were expensive to maintain because they required human monitoring 24/7.  In the 1970’s VCR technology had become affordable enough that businesses and governments could engage in more widespread monitoring with less manpower.  You only needed someone to change the tape.  If something did occur you simply reviewed the tape that covered the time period in question.

The 1990’s were notable for new functionality added to cameras in the form time lapse and motion activated recording.

Today as technology moves relentlessly forward, and security cameras have moved over to the internet to become surveillance cameras, there is no limit to your ability to monitor your property from anywhere in the world. 

Type of Surveillance systems

There are 3 types of surveillance packages available:  Security; Home Automation and Environmental Monitoring.  We will examine each of these in more detail below.

1. Home Security Surveillance Systems

This is, by far, what most people think of when they think of a surveillance camera system.  A way to keep the bad guys out or least make your residence or business a much less inviting target.  And it is true!  Surveillance cameras are one of the most effective ways to stop crimes of opportunity and even deter more persistent evil doers.  And if you are the victim of a crime, a well implemented surveillance system will give you all the information you need for the police and insurance company.

For more information on selecting the right camera for your situation see our blog Choosing the right Security Camera

2. Home Automation Surveillance Systems

Home automation can add convenience and financial savings to your life.  There is no limit to what can be automated.  The most common example is your HVAC system.  In the summer you can program your A/C unit to reduce power when no one is home and then set it to power up an hour before you are due to arrive home.  The same is true with your heating system.  Turn the heat down when no one is home all day long and have it turn back up in time to have your house all nice and cozy for when you arrive back home after a long day of work (or shopping).  In both cases you are saving money by not wasting energy, not to mention helping the earth as well.

If your schedule should change simply long in from your computer or smart phone and change your homes schedule. 

We have focused on heating and A/C because they are the most commonly automated features of a house.  However, many other things can be automated.  Simply ask your profession Surveillance System installer.

3. Environmental Monitoring Surveillance Systems

Threats don’t only come from criminals and thugs.  Other things can go wrong as well; floods, fire and carbon monoxide are three common mishaps.  But with a surveillance system you can avoid these mishaps or at least mitigate the damage.  It could even save your life and the lives of your family by giving you early warning that something is wrong!

Benefits of installing Surveillance camera system

There are many excellent reasons to install a surveillance camera system.  Some of them are:

1. Intruder Protection – Thieves look for easy opportunities.  A surveillance camera system makes it clear that your property is no such target.  A surveillance camera system will keep you and your family safe.
2. Protect your Valuables – It’s not just your family you have concerns about.  You have worked hard to build your home and furnish it with things to keep you comfortable and entertained.  A surveillance camera system will protect your home 24/7/365.  Even when your not home.
3. Fire Protection – Thieves and other ne’er do wells are not the only threats to your home and loved ones. A surveillance camera system can be integrated with a fire detection system. When a fire starts in your home, time is precious. Adding fire protection to your surveillance camera system is a smart move.
4. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Protection – Just like fire protection, a surveillance camera system can include sensors for the purpose of detecting the presence of carbon monoxide in your home. Carbon monoxide is odourless and invisible, you cannot smell or see it.
5. Constant Monitoring – A monitored surveillance camera system is continuously supervised by trained security professionals. Your home and loved ones are always protected, and should an emergency arise help is available immediately.
6. Remote Monitoring – New technology allows homeowners to maintain vigilance on their property while they are away. You can oversee what is happening at home even when you are not there. Surveillance camera systems allow you to know what’s going on at home from anywhere in the world.
7. Immediate Medical Assistance – Today’s surveillance camera systems can include a feature to quickly contact emergency services. This is particularly useful in the homes of elderly people, those with disabilities or some type of mobility impairment. A “Panic Button” will immediately summon help whenever an emergency may arise.
8. Reduce Energy Consumption – One little known, but valuable feature of surveillance camera systems is the ability to control lights, heat and just about anything else. You can reduce energy consumption when no one is home and then program the system to get everything ready just before you and your family come home.
9. Peace of Mind – One of the best things a reliable surveillance camera system can do, is provide you with simple peace of mind. Knowing that your home and everything in it, especially your family, is safe and secure 24 hours a day will help reduce your stress.
10. Save on Home Insurance – A home equipped with a surveillance camera system will help lower homeowners insurance costs. Your home is safer and more secure than a home without a security system. Safe and secure means less risk; less risk means less likely to result in a claim and insurance companies like less risk so much they will give you a break on your home ownership.

Conclusion

There are many excellent reasons for installing a surveillance camera system in your home or business.  Security, Home Automation and Cost Savings are just 3 of the main reasons.  With all of the benefits and features of a surveillance camera system why wouldn’t you want one in your home and/or business?  Call (416) 520-4080 or email info@alarvac.com and see how we can help you today!

In home construction or renovation, most electrical wiring consists of standard 110 volt feeds for typical electrical needs, as well as 220 volt feeds for major appliances such as range, dryer, air conditioner, etc.

In addition to this standard wiring, almost all homes contain at least a few low voltage systems. An example of these would be the good old fashioned doorbell and telephone land line wiring.

Homes often have a number of other low voltage systems such as Security Systems and burglar alarms, surveillance cameras, Intercoms, home audio and video, home automation, lighting, and networking data lines, which include Data, TV and wireless access points and Wifi Boosters.

We should note that Central Vacuum cleaners and garage door openers are not usually thought of as low voltage systems, but they do have low voltage components, and need to be roughed in around the same time as other low voltage systems.

Low voltage systems, like any other built in system, will be done in two stages, which are Rough-in and Installation. Rough-in is the necessary pre-wiring, piping, conduits, boxes, fixtures and vapor barriers – basically all things that need to be completed before insulation and drywall are installed. Installation is the final stage of placing and connecting the components and devices, set up, networking and programming. This is best done after the completion of painting, usually before completion of the flooring

When is the best time to rough-in a low voltage system?

The order and timing of rough-in is critically important as it impacts project deadlines and costs. The first low voltage system that should be installed is the Central Vacuum system which should be roughed in after mechanical-HVAC and plumbing, but BEFORE electrical. The reason for this timing is that it is relatively simple to work electrical lines around Central Vac components, but it can be difficult or next to impossible to route Central Vac piping and outlets around existing electrical.

Systems such as Security Systems, Audio/Video, Automation, Lighting and Networking should be done after the electrical wiring. Pulling electrical wires over the more fragile low-voltage wiring could damage the wiring. For Audio/Video, proximity to AC wring can cause interference problems and signal degradation (resulting in audible hiss, for example), and special care needs to be taken to ensure that these wires are properly installed.

When is the best time to install a low voltage system?

The best time to install a low voltage system is typically right after completion of the painting and preferably prior to completion of the floors. Many of the external components of low voltage systems are mounted on walls, so it is important that the walls be painted and finished before components are installed in order to provide a professional look, and ensure that components such as intercoms, for example, do not end up with paint on them. Preferably, low voltage installation components should be done before the floors are in, firstly to ensure that the final floor is in pristine condition, and secondly, to avoid the extra time and cost involved in working on finished floors.

How can we help?

Alarvac has been installing low voltage systems in the GTA for over 28 years. We work extensively with custom home builders for new homes as well as renovations in existing homes. If you are building a new home or planning a renovation, you would probably want to involve us in the planning stages, so we can best advise on placement and installation of your low voltage systems.

6 Really Good Reasons why you need a Monitored Alarm System

In an emergency, three things need to happen: First, you need to know what’s happening. Second, you need to know what action to take, and lastly, you need to be able to take that action.

In a real emergency, things are confusing, it’s hard to figure out what’s happening, and people often are not able to make the right decision and take the right action. Time is not on your side here.

Your alarm system is designed to let you know when something is wrong. It could be anything from an intrusion — a door or window open when it shouldn’t be, breaking glass, movement in the house, smoke, fire, excess heat in the attic, carbon monoxide, flooding in the basement, just to name a few.

Let’s imagine that you’re asleep in bed and your alarm triggers a siren and lets you know that something is wrong. What is happening? Is it a smoke alarm? Did somebody come in late from a party and forget to disarm the system? What if there’s an intruder? Where is the intruder? Do you confront the intruder? Suddenly the siren stops. Is it because the event is over, or because the wire to the siren has been cut? What do you do? You could be wasting precious seconds trying to see if you hear anything downstairs, when there’s actually a fire in the attic. Or what if there’s a Carbon Monoxide buildup? The alarm will sound, but what happens if you’re already unconscious or too groggy to respond?

Your alarm system provides only half the equation – letting you know when something is wrong. The other half – being able to act immediately and appropriately to protect your family and property – that’s where alarm system monitoring is invaluable. Here are 6 very good reasons to have your alarm system monitored:

1. Trained Security Experts are watching over your home 24/7/265

With a monitored Security Alarm System, trained security experts are watching over your home and well-being 24/7, 365 days per year, regardless of where you are, what you are doing, and even if you are unavailable or incapacitated. You have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that when there is an emergency and response time is critical, there is always someone there to respond and take immediate action.

2. Help is there when you need it.

When the Monitoring Station receives an emergency signal from your home, they will call you immediately to confirm the nature of the emergency. Even if your security system has been disabled by a burglar, the Monitoring station will know, and will dispatch a response. The monitoring station will dispatch the appropriate emergency response be it fire, police, ambulance, and emergency personnel will be on the scene as soon as possible.

Many emergencies are simply too serious or too overwhelming for you to handle by yourself, or possibly you may not even be in a position to do anything about it. Depending on the nature of the emergency, the security experts at the monitoring station will also provide specific instructions on what you need to do.

3. It’s not expensive…

…but we understand that many people are a little put off by the steep monitoring costs and long-term contracts pushed by some companies. The reality is that Security System Monitoring costs are well under a dollar per day. Insurance companies usually offer discounts for homes protected by alarm systems, so the net Monitoring cost for many customers could be down to a few quarters per day. And, because we never quite tire of tooting our own horn, we have to tell you that with Alarvac, you get exactly the monitoring services you want, from one of Canada’s leading Alarm System Monitoring providers, and we’ll never lock you into an expensive long-term contract.

4. Deter Thieves

Studies show that if you have a monitored alarm system, your chances of having your house broken into are significantly reduced. Also, if a break-in does occur, less property is stolen from homes with a monitored alarm system, since the burglars have much less time to operate.

5. It’s more than just an alarm system

Your alarm system can also monitor for fire, smoke, sudden temperature changes, carbon monoxide, even flooding in the basement. An important feature, especially for seniors or people living alone is the Panic Button. This is a small device easily carried around or on your person, that can be activated in case of an emergency.

6. It’s really easy to use

You don’t need any technical knowhow to use a monitored alarm system. Arming and disarming your system is dead simple. We help you plan and set up your Security System so it operates precisely as needed. We will help custom-tailor a security plan to ensure that whatever happens, you get exactly the response you need

Over the last 28 years, we have serviced and installed every possible brand of Alarm system. Along the way we’ve learned a few things about alarm system products. We’ve come to trust and rely on some brands because their products work well, hardly ever break down, are easy to service, and parts for upgrade or repair are always available. DSC is one of those brands, and it’s worth telling you a little bit about them.

DSC has been around since 1979, and is now a global brand, headquartered in Toronto. Starting with small security keypads and microprocessor-based alarm panels, DSC grew larger and acquired a few companies and eventually was acquired by Tyco International, a $21 Billion giant in security-related products.

DSC is a Canadian company, and that’s really important. Not only because we like to wave the flag, and our economy is important to us, but it means that the products are manufactured and warehoused in Canada. In fact, right here in Toronto. Which means, when we need a product in a hurry, we don’t have to order from across the border or overseas, we can literally go pick up the product from the factory if we need to.

What’s also important is that DSC makes high quality, reliable products and is well established in the Canadian market. Why? For one, that means there are plenty of well-trained DSC technicians in our market. Which in turn means when a DSC Alarm System needs service, we can get a technician there pronto. We’ve seem our share of homeowners, stuck with obscure brands which were sold at dirt cheap prices. One of these brands, for example, has literally only two service technicians in Ontario who are qualified to service that particular brand. Ouch.

What DSC means to us and our customers is that we can recommend and install products that have superior performance and reliability, but priced very reasonably. When service or upgrades are needed, we can respond quickly and efficiently.

For more information about alarm service, click – https://bit.ly/2tbbyFN or to find us, click –  https://bit.ly/2TGHCg8

If you are looking for security cameras, you’ve no doubt encountered a vast and confusing array of products and information online. And, camera specifications include reams of cryptic numbers and letters, making it hard to sort out what’s important and what’s not, and what would be best for your needs. In this blog, I will outline the types of cameras available, and what purposes they are best suited for.

Camera Housing Types

Box Camera

This is a standalone camera, shaped like a box with the lens on the front. It has customizable lens options, camera, housings etc. With a camera like this, it’s easy to see where the camera is aimed.

Dome Camera

As the name implies, this camera is shaped like an upside down dome. It combines, camera, lens, ceiling mount, and is suitable for dirty environments such as warehouses, factories, kitchens, etc. It’s available in indoor or outdoor housings and vandal-resistant housings. The dome lens can be clear or it can be opaque, so that it is not obvious where the camera is pointing.

Bullet Camera

The Bullet Camera combines camera, lens, and optionally, infrared (IR) illuminators in a tubular body. It is compact and self-contained, with a fairly small footprint. With IR illuminators it is useful for low light situations. Because of the way it’s designed, it is easy to tell where the camera is pointing.

Security Camera Features

PTZ (Pan, Tilt and Zoom) Camera

This type of camera contains motorized controls that allow a remote operator to control where the camera is aimed, and zoom in or out. Movement can be controlled by a joystick-type interface or via software. Movement patterns and times can be programmed via software. Some of these type of cameras can detect and automatically track movement.

IP Camera

An Internet Protocol (IP) camera is a security camera which can connect to network in much the same way as any other wired standalone network device such as a notebook, computer or printer would connect to the network. It can transmit and receive data over a network or via the internet. These cameras would typically be connected to a wired network via ethernet cable. Images from an IP camera can be viewed from anywhere there is an internet connection. These cameras can have motion detectors to alert you when there is an intruder. Some IP cameras have PTZ functionality, which can be controlled from anywhere there is an internet connection. Available for indoor and outdoor use, and for low-light conditions.

Wireless IP Camera

This is a WiFi enabled IP camera, eliminating cost of installing network cabling. It connects wirelessly to a router and is accessible over the internet.

Day/Night Camera

This camera is suitable for low-light situations as well as daytime lighting. It includes Infrared (IR) lighting for night time use.

Thermal (FLIR) Camera

This camera works similarly to the “Night Vision” cameras you may have seen on TV. Because it works by detecting heat, a Thermal Camera can “see” in complete darkness and in harsh environments such as dust, haze, smoke and fog.

Wide Dynamic Range Cameras

These are specialized cameras for use in environments for use where there is a very wide range of lighting levels in the same scene, such as people in shadows with bright sunlight behind them, or in parking lots where there may be bright headlights. Regular security cameras adjust their exposure for the brightest levels, and in the scenarios mentioned earlier, shadow detail would be lost. Wide Dynamic Range cameras can create create useable images where there is a very wide range of lighting levels in the same scene, by balancing light levels on a per-pixel basis.

360 Degree camera

360 Degree cameras, as the name implies, can provide complete 360-degree coverage of an area. Usually in a dome housing, these cameras include a number of lenses covering the entire field of view. The camera combines images from the multiple lenses into one image or video.

Analog Cameras

Also known as CCTV Camera, these older style analog cameras suffer from low resolution, and signal degradation which is influenced by length and type of cable, number of connectors used, age of the cable. They are not a particularly desirable or a viable option but they may be used to repair or extend an existing CCTV installation.

There are so many different options for Central Vacuums out there that shopping for a new one can be overwhelming. Most vacuums are on the pricier side so you want to make sure you make the best choice for your budget. So, when faced with seemingly countless brands, models and styles, how do you know which vacuum will be the best fit for your home? Here are five steps to help you narrow down your search on your journey to finding the perfect Central Vacuum for your home.

Step 1: Your Flooring Type You want to consider what type of flooring you will be vacuuming. Do you have a home with wall-to-wall carpeting or a home with hardwood floors? Here are some things to consider depending on your flooring type: Mostly Carpeting: homes with a lot of carpeting requires a lot of suction with a carpet-specific powerhead and good maneuverability. It’s recommended to get a central vacuum power head with electric beater brushes that are equipped to separate and refresh carpet fibers. Mostly Hard Flooring: those with hard flooring such as tile, laminate and hardwood need a bare floor brush, soft bristle tools and skid-proof wheels because they will glide easily and tend to be more lightweight as well.

Step 2: Consider Any Special Scenarios Some special scenarios to consider are:

• Do you own a pet?
• Do you have any allergies or health concerns?

If you own a pet, it’s best to get a Central Vacuum Kit that is designed to clean pet fur, and help eliminate odors. If you have any allergies, or a family member has them, you are best off getting a vacuum that features HEPA, a filtration system the helps eliminate harmful contaminants and a unit that features an easy to empty dust bag to reduce the chances of inhaling dust with each change of the bag.

Step 3: Budget What Is Important While reviewing the types of vacuum options available to you, maybe one or two or more will jump out to you because of the features they might have. You might need a vacuum that can deep clean dense carpeting, or a vacuum that is more accommodating to your child’s allergies. In this case, you want to figure out what need is more important and how to budget for that specific need. Search with vacuums that meet your priorities and then budget according to the selection that you narrowed it down to.

Step 4: Educate Yourself on Quality Some vacuums have established a reputation for being high quality, durable and innovative, so you want to pay attention to the more commonly heard vacuum brands out there because there is likely a good reason why they are so popular in the market. So, if you are geared towards a specific type of vacuum, take the time to research the brand of vacuum and see if it’s really what you’re looking for.

Step 5: Phone a friend  In this case, we mean pick up the phone and call us. We’ve been doing Central Vacuums for over 25 years, and we’d be happy to answer all your questions. Then we’ll provide a quote for exactly the system you need, plus options that you’ll want to consider. And when you want the product installed, we’ll take care of it from start to finish. 

A home security system can provide you with everything from protection from intruders to saving money on your homeowners insurance. Here are the top ten reasons you should consider installing a home security system.

1. Intruder Protection- it’s no surprise that having a home security system is going to help keep unwanted trespassers away. Homes without a security system are far more likely to be targeted by burglars for obvious reasons.
2. Protect your Valuables- if intruders are kept out, your valuable possessions will be kept safe, plain and simple. A good home security system is crucial in ensuring your valuables are secure and not stolen. Thieves commonly target items such as TVs and jewellery, so it’s important to keep them safe and secure.
3. Fire Protection- home security systems are often only associated with home intrusion protection, but they also offer fire protection that is a step up from your average smoke detector. Home security systems are often outfitted with fire detection that can sense fire, smoke, and even abnormal heat and contact authorities early.
4. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Protection- just like fire detection, home security systems can also help detect the presence of carbon monoxide in your home, keeping you and your family safe in yet another way. Carbon monoxide is odourless and invisible, you cannot smell it or see it.
5. Constant Monitoring- a monitored home security system is continuously being monitored by trained security professionals. Your home and loved ones are always protected, and should an emergency arise, help is immediately available.
6. Remote Monitoring- new technology allows homeowners to keep an eye on their homes while they are away, providing even more personal assurance of security. Homeowners are able to log on to the internet and view live video feeds of their homes, allowing for constant monitoring from just about anywhere.
7. Immediate Medical Assistance- today’s home security systems can be designed to provide a homeowner with an easy means to contact emergency services. Often requested to be in the homes of elderly people or those with disabilities, an alert device commonly called a “Panic Button” will immediately summon help, should an emergency arise.
8. Reduce Energy Consumption- though not as common as other home security features, some systems come with a mobile monitoring feature that allows a homeowner to control their home’s lights and heating and cooling systems. This reduces energy consumption because you will always be able to shut these things off when no one is home.
9. Peace of Mind- one of the best things a reliable home security system can give you is simple peace of mind. Simply knowing that your home and everything in it, especially your family, is safe and secure 24 hours a day can do a whole lot to reduce your stress.
10. Save on Home Insurance- a home that is outfitted with a functioning home security system is going to come with lower homeowners insurance costs. Your home is seen as significantly safer and more secure than a home without a security system, so your insurance company is going to deem it as less of a risk.