At Home Living: Home security, automation systems offer peace of mind

Forgot to lock a door before going on vacation? No need to call the neighbors: theres an app for that.

In just a few years, home security systems have gone from complicated keypads that might lock the doors to comprehensive systems that monitor all types of functions.

A number of local and national companies in the Topeka area offer home security services, equipment and smartphone apps.

As Kansas Audio Videos Aaron Koker notes, its not just about home security anymore but home automation.

The skys the limit as to what can be monitored, Koker said. Its more than just a burglar system.

Koker says you can put sensors on the liquor cabinet to see if the teenagers are sneaking the scotch. According to Koker, almost any door can be monitored.

Even basements prone to flooding can be monitored, according to Koker.

If thats a risk, youre going to want to know if your gone if theres standing water in your basement, Koker said.

Kansas Audio Videos full cellphone, interactive systems start at $40 a month for coverage of three doors, smoke detection, a main touch screen and about $700 worth of equipment. The owner signs a 36-month contract and pays a $99 activation fee. The system is designed to be modular, which Koker says makes the system future-proof.

Koker says homeowners need to talk about how they live and what they want from a system so it isnt left unused.

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At Home Living: Home security, automation systems offer peace of mind