FrontPoint Security Review
|
Hey, Johnny here.
As I’m sure you know, this site has always been about web hosting, web design and development.
So, why am I writing about a DIY home security system on my web hosting review site?
I think the recent developments in home security technology and the “internet of things” (IOT) are really cool.
In 2015, more homeowners are connecting and controlling devices in our homes. As part of this revolution, a new breed of home security companies has revolutionized home security (sorry, ADT). With that said, here’s my review of FrontPoint’s home security system:
Frontpoint Security System: What You Need to Know
Your family, property, and security are some of the most important things worth protecting. However, with crime rates in most areas increasing, providing the necessary protection can be a challenge – unless you have a high-quality and top-notch security system in place…
The market is currently inundated with security systems, but not each system operates alike. If you are truly looking for a home security system that is well worth the investment, then security systems offered by Frontpoint are the ideal solution. Below is an overview of the system’s features, the advantages of the system, and any other relevant concerns.
About Frontpoint
Before investing in any product, especially one that you’re going to use to protect your home and family, it is always helpful to understand the type of company that you are thinking of purchasing from. Frontpoint is relatively new to the business of home security.
The company was founded in 2007 by a group of home security experts, each of which wanted to implement what they thought would be revolutionary changes in the home security industry. Frontpoint’s success relies heavily upon its ability to provide effective technology, high-quality customer service, and building consumer trust in the brand and in the system.
Three Main Security Equipment Packages to Choose From
When looking into Frontpoint security, you’ll notice that there are three main security equipment packages to choose from.
- Standard Package: For an investment of $99 you can opt for the Standard Package. The standard package includes a wireless control panel that has a cell uplink, a wireless motion sensor, a keychain remote, a yard sign and five window decals, and two wireless door or window sensors.
- Enhanced Package: The Enhanced Package costs $164 and with this system, you’ll get a standard control panel that includes a cell uplink, two wireless door or window sensors, a wireless motion sensor, a smoke and heat detector, a keychain remote, and yard signs and window decals.
- Lighting Package: The Lighting Package costs $199 and includes the most popular equipment form the Standard and Enhanced Packages, controls for two lights in your home.With this system, you get a wireless control panel with a cell uplink, two wireless window sensors, a motion sensor, two wireless light controls, a keychain remote, and a yardsign and five window decals.
Overall, while the cost of the security system itself will vary, these packages are one-time investments that you can purchase when you opt in to Frontpoint’s security system. If your home is large or if it requires extra security precautions, then you may want to consider either the enhanced or light version. Below are many of the features that you can expect when investing in a Frontpoint Security system.
Home Automation Equipment
Frontpoint Security has many features, but one of the most convenient for any homeowner is the home automation system and equipment that the company provides.
A home automation system is a form of technology that allows you to remotely control everything that has to do with your home such as locks, doors, thermostat, lights, and so much more.
Those who join Frontpoint Security can control devices in their home via mobile phone, tablet or laptop. With the home automation system, you can not only ensure that your home is protected 24/7, but you can protect manage your home while you are away.
Geo Services
Geo services is a technology feature that not many home security companies provide their clients with.
Frontpoint is unique in this respect and it certainly pays off to take advantage of this feature. Geo services is a type of technology that allows you to improve your connection with your home. Through the system, you can create a “geofence” around the area of your home. This invisible area that you configure in Frontpoint’s application is essentially an area that is designated as completely security.
If you or anything passes through the geo fence, then the security rules that you have in place will prevail. This type of setting is an optimal feature if you’re looking to amp up and monitor the security of your home. A few of the most common settings that you can apply with the Geo Service include:
- Video recording
- Thermostat automation
- Alarm notification
Also, the geo services system and much of Frontpoint’s applications are compatible with iOS and Android devices, so you regardless of what you have, you’ll still be able to monitor and control your home’s security.
Surveillance Options
Very few home security companies go to the length that Frontpoint does to protect your home. Most home security systems will only provide standard stand-still cameras to monitor your home while you’re away.
Frontpoint goes above and beyond by providing cameras that have extremely useful capabilities such as pan-and-tilt. In addition, if you need security outside but within the parameters of your property, then Frontpoint has got you covered with their outdoor line of cameras.
Monitoring Packages
Diversity and a range of choices is always an advantage when choosing a home security system.
In addition to the equipment packages that Frontpoint has available, the company has three monitoring systems that you can choose from…
Each of these systems offer optimal protection, but the main difference between the three systems is that unlike Protection Monitoring, which is the simplest system, Interactive and Ultimate Monitoring provide you with instant alerts regarding fire and environmental threats.
You’ll also have available a life-safety support system, professional monitoring that is in place 24/7, and many interactive features like light controls, remote access and control, email and text alerts, and crash and smash alerts. Overall, if you’re looking for something more advanced than the basic Protection Monitoring plan, than Interactive and Ultimate Monitoring are prime choices.
Pricing and Risk
When choosing a home security system, one of the first properties that many individuals think of is the pricing structure – and rightly so.
Home security systems are an investment, but if you’re going to put the money down, then you might as well do it at a company that you feel comfortable working with and that provides you with the features and capabilities that you are looking for in a home security system. You can expect the following in terms of Frontpoint’s pricing:
- Three plans are available, starting at $34.99 per month and up to $49.99 per month
- There is a 30-day risk free trial involved – so if you aren’t pleased with what you are getting, you can return it at no cost
Generally, while Frontpoint may seem a bit pricy compared to other home security systems, it is important to understand the reasoning behind the pricing structure.
Unlike other security systems which run on landlines or broadband, Frontpoint is a security system that is completely wireless through the use of cellular systems. With wireless technology, you’re getting an optimal level of protection, which is well worth the slightly upgraded price. In addition, as mentioned above, the company offers a 30-day risk free trial. If you aren’t satisfied, then you can return the equipment and get your money back free of charge.
After Installing Frontpoint
Frontpoint’s security systems can be installed by either you or a professional. If you do choose the professional installation, there is a fee involved.
If you do decide to install Frontpoint, the company has another great feature and that is its constant security improvements. Essentially, Frontpoint is always upgrading its technology systems. For example, current customers that are using the company’s Simon ST control panel are able to upgrade to the company’s Qolsys’ IQ Touch-Screen Control Panel, which provides them with the highly advanced home security technology.
Other than system upgrades, the company also works on updating equipment such as sensors, cameras, and so much more. Therefore, with Frontpoint, you can be certain that you’re getting the latest and greatest when it comes to a security system.
The Disadvantages
As a whole, Frontpoint is the type of home security system that is a worthwhile investment. However, like all security systems, there are a number of disadvantages that you may want to be aware of.
- The equipment is not covered by a lifetime warranty. Instead, all equipment has a warranty period of three years
- If you choose to do it yourself, installing Frontpoint’s security system on your own could be challenging if you have no DIY experience.
- The company has 28 complaints listed against it on the Better Business Bureau. However if you inquire, the company will send you a response and explain the circumstances
- FrontPoint is a relatively new company in the home security industry (founded 2007)
The Overall Recommendation
To sum it up – even if it doesn’t score a perfect 10/10, Frontpoint is a quality security system and monitoring service that is worth investing in.
Generally, customers are very pleased with the level of service and security that the company provides. The regular upgrades, the high-quality equipment, the remote access, and the wireless technology make Frontpoint a security system that will protect your home at the best level possible.
In addition, nothing can beat the 30-day risk free trial that the company provides. Such flexibility and care for customers is unfounded within the industry, so it’s best to take advantage of it while it is available.
We compared vs Link, Vivint and even ADT and ended up going with FrontPoint. We opted to do the DIY install. Both my DH and I like to have some kinda little DIY project going, even if it’s just a little gardening project. So this was nothing scary – it actually ended up being very easy, very plug-and-play, so not sure I can really call it a project. But definitely I can say it was an easy setup. The lack of intrusive old-fashioned wiring is really a benefit of FrontPoint with their cellular + wireless technology. We are both really happy after 2 months of service. 5 stars from me.
That’s great to hear, Deb! Thanks for leaving your review and congrats on your great experience with FP