Wondering why these clients decide to hire us instead of the many corporate solutions? Read on to discover how we stand out from the competition.

1. VinTech Systems has an established reputation, licenses, and insurance.

From time to time, we get requests from people that lose touch with the company that installed their system.
The most common reasons are that the company is permanently closed or the person that installed the system doesn’t answer their calls.

The best way to avoid this situation is to verify the company’s credentials before hiring them.

VinTech has been in business for more than 16 years. We are also licensed, insured, and have dozens of positive reviews on Google.

Additionally, our accreditation from the Better Business Bureau has an A + rating for the past 5 years.
If you’re not familiar with The BBB, this is a trusted source to find information about a company including: background, ratings, and complaints for thousands of U.S. businesses.

2. We are both accessible and approachable.

From quotes to installations and technical support, we help you through all the process with in-house employees. This means you will likely be speaking to the same team members over time and they’ll be familiar with you and your system.

We understand that there’s no worse feeling than waiting for days (or weeks) to resolve an issue that involves your security system. This is why we also provide in-house technical support. We ‘feel’ your frustration when you share with us that you switched to a small company because you can experience “the personal touch” that they didn’t receive with corporate companies.

The better we get to know you, the better we’ll be able to accommodate solutions for your needs.

3. Small business VinTech offers multiple brands to balance quality with price

We do our best to work with your budget but we do caution clients that a lower price doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best deal. To compare a security system estimate, it’s important to understand what it offers. The key is to evaluate the equipment and services on the same scale.

Compare apples to apples.

For example, a client called us to request an estimate for 3 high definition security cameras. We provided a quote for mega-pixel cameras with a wide dynamic range function. This was the best option for the area that the client was trying to cover as it blocks sunlight. (Regular high definition cameras will not capture details if there is excessive sunlight.)

Our client asked why our price was higher than a corporate competitor.

We reviewed the estimate and explained that the other company was offering regular high definition cameras. If they wouldn’t have shared these details with us, they could have purchased a system with the wrong capabilities or that they didn’t need.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by product terms and prices, send us a written quote and we can help you compare or match it. We’ll do our best to make sure you’re getting the best value, quality, and service for your security needs.

4. VinTech provides a reasonable warranty on labor and equipment.

All of our labor and equipment comes with a warranty. We strive to make our clients happy and if for some reason, there’s something we missed during installation, you can call us and we’ll make it right.

This is how one of our recent clients agree:

“Very pro and came back to adjust system – they wanted it done right!” _ Doug McBride

We provide a reasonable warranty because we have confidence in our team and we strive to deliver great service.

5. We offers maintenance plans for all of our systems.

Proper maintenance can save you lots of money and time. When you join our maintenance program, we include two services per year and additional perks (think discounts on parts or labor.) Maintenance plans that are purchased with installation have additional discounts but we still offer these at any time for all our clients.

Many small businesses are great but not all can provide the “personal touch” that VinTech strives for. Give us a call and you’ll speak to a real person from day 1!

The post Why Hire Small Business VinTech Systems for your Next Security Project. appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Read along to see what they shared.

Mun, VinTech’s president, was a child when her home was burglarized while their family was asleep. The next morning, the family found one of their kitchen’s butcher knives placed in the living room. She began to feel unsafe at home and experienced recurring nightmares about the incident. She recalls “I had no peace of mind until we moved to a new home.”

Incidents like this can have a long-term effect on how we view protection. In Mun’s case, not only did it disturb her peace at an early age but later influenced her decision to take a role in the security industry.

Why is it important to feel secure?

Feeling secure is at the base of every success in a person’s life. It means having a sense of control of yourself and the environment. Many factors can influence our sense of security. These include both internal (mindfulness, confidence, and inner peace) and external (a support system that includes physical and emotional security measures).

Ideally, both internal and external factors not only have to co-exists but thrive in order to feel secure.

How does Security for a Peaceful Life look in real life?

Being Completely Present.

When was the last time you stopped, took a deep breath, and focused on listening and looking at everything around you? If you have never done this, it might take some practice. The goal is not to simply look but to become aware of your surroundings and stay there as long as possible.

Which factors disrupt the process of staying present?

We often think about the safety of those we love but don’t ask ourselves if we feel safe. From time to time, we might think about possible scenarios that could bring us harm but we know that these situations usually require a reaction from us. However, do we ever give ourselves time to think about what it would take for us to feel completely safe? When we become aware of the importance of meditating about this, it changes our perspective of what being protected should feel like.

Romeo, Technician at VinTech Systems, believes that protection should enable you to “ease your mind from unexpected dangers. As in being safe in a way that you don’t even need to think about being in any possible danger.”

And if there is one place where you shouldn’t have to think about being in any possible danger, it should be your home.

This is why the job of a reliable security system is to protect what’s most important to you. When you have confidence in your physical security, you’re more likely to shift your focus to stay in the moment. Whether it’s having dinner with family or going to sleep, a high quality security system can support your peace of mind to help you stay present.

Have a Peaceful Mind & Sleep.

According to the Sleep Foundation, “It is believed that between 15% and 20% of adults experience short-term insomnia in any given year.” Sometimes, identifying the reason(s) for these changes is not that easy. However, practicing regular self-care can help.

For example, Antonieta, VinTech’s administrative assistant, believes that good sleep is needed to have a peaceful life. She uses aromatherapy to calm her mind before going to sleep in search of: “TRANQUILITY.” Then she starts to “imagine being able to sleep without being concerned.”

Just like Antonieta, many of our clients feel that a night routine in preparation for sleep helps them calm their mind. Additionally, if you take similar steps every night, you’ll be more likely to not forget to lock your doors or arm your security system.

Secure your Financial Stability

One additional component that can help you feel secure is to protect your property against theft and damage.

Mun, VinTech’s owner and founder, knows that security is not something you want to delegate to just anyone. She stands by the company’s core value of protection because she also uses our security systems to help her feel at ease: “As a business owner, it’s important for me to know what’s going on during operations. We are able to see some improper behavior, […] and who is working hard. It’s also important for us to know that our property is protected during non-business hours.”

Whether it is at your business or at home, protecting your assets can bring you the comfort of financial stability. And even though you can’t always be there, you can be confident that you have already taken the steps to secure your property and items of value.

Security for a Peaceful Life is more than a tagline for our founder and team. We work every day to find solutions that will work best with our clients goals. We want to help them find “[…] peace of mind when you’re at home or away.” _ Kyle, Lead Technician.

The post What is Security for a Peaceful Life? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Because of this incident and many others, we want to discuss the importance of reducing false smoke alarms. It’s necessary to spread awareness about smoke inhalation related deaths as this is the number one cause of death related to fires.

How can you identify what is triggering your alarm?

A smoke detector needs regular health inspections to work properly. Most people know that overcooked food, low batteries, or a loose wire can cause a smoke detector to go off. Fortunately, these false alarms can often be prevented with good ventilation, changing the batteries every 5-10 years, and checking the system annually for faulty wires. Nonetheless, there are several other external reasons that can trigger a false smoke alarm. These are six of the less common triggers to look for:

1. Proximity to cold air returns

Smoke detectors are sensitive devices and temperature changes can trigger them. It’s not the first thing you should check but it might be helpful in explaining why an alarm is triggered. If your device is placed close to a door or window, cold air or dust particles from outside can trigger the sensor. This is specially true about false smoke alarms during the night.

Kidde Fire Safety explains in detail why this happens in their article: “Why do smoke alarms go off in the middle of the night?” Their post describes how a battery can develop internal resistance and trigger an alarm when the temperature around the alarm decreases.

2. Proximity to high humidity

Has your smoke detector gone off while you are in the shower? It sounds like the alarm might be too close to your bathroom. The bathroom’s humidity and steam from hot running water, might be causing this false alarm. You can try relocating the device further away from the bathroom and test if that helps reduce/eliminate this trigger.

3. Insects are crawling into your the cavities of the alarm

This is an interesting trigger because it’s unexpected. Many of us love insects only from a distance and find it difficult to believe that our homes have more than a couple of small spiders. Well, this is perfect because small insects can fit into the small cavities of the smoke detector and trigger the sensors. Luckily, this issue becomes a problem more often during the fall and it can be resolved by opening the smoke detector, checking inside, and cleaning the device.

You can read more about how to reduce this trigger in our blog: “Can spiders set your alarm off?”

4. Build up of dust or dirt

Internal and external accumulation of dust or dirt in a smoke alarm is normal. It’s easy to forget about these devices when they are not making a noise. However, dust can also trigger a false alarm. This is because smoke detectors react similarly to dust and smoke particles. The good news is that a semiannual cleaning of the device can be a solution to prevent this trigger.

Additionally, if your smoke detector is connected to your burglar alarm, this cleaning can also be done when your alarm company provides maintenance to your alarm. If you check both devices on the same dates, it’ll be easier to remember when the last inspection/testing was performed and if the batteries of your smoke detector need to be replaced.

5. Strong chemical odors are being detected by your alarm

Chemicals in cleaning products, ammonia, or paint fumes can also become triggers. Most of the time, this false alarm resumes after ventilating the area. If the problem persists, it might be helpful to reset the smoke detector.

6. Furnace/fireplace is turned on for the first time.

When turning on the fireplace or furnace for the first time during the season, dusty elements can create smoke. It might be difficult to prevent this false alarm but should be easy to eliminate by waiting for the smoke to dissipate and reseating the alarm.

When was the last time you tested your smoke detector?

It is important to test the device every six months to make sure they are working properly

In most cases, the fact that your smoke detector makes noise it’s a sign that your device is in good condition and responding to external aggressors. Unfortunately, like any other device in the house, a smoke detector can have minor glitches. The good news is that most can be prevented or resolved within minutes.

If you have already checked all these triggers and the problem persists, you should also consider upgrading your alarm. As the detector gets older, it becomes less efficient and you don’t want to risk having a system that doesn’t work well.

It’s understandable to get irritated when you can’t pinpoint the reason for the false alarm right away, but don’t give up! Remember that no one should ever live in a home without a working smoke detector or delay testing it regularly

The post 6 Less Common Reasons your Smoke Detector is Set off appeared first on VinTech Systems.

How Can an Alarm System Protect You from a Burglary?

Alarm systems are monitored by a local station 24/7. This means that whether you are at home or not, the alarm will alert you and the local monitoring station when someone or something ‘is in the zone’ and has activated the motion sensors. The monitoring station will then call you to verify a false alarm or to dispatch the authorities immediately if needed. However, since a burglar alarm system can be triggered by different things, it’s important to know how to correctly use all features. This will ensure that you’ll get the fastest and most accurate response and your family or business remains protected.

What Are the Main Components of an Alarm System?

Control panel

The control panel is the primary component of your burglar alarm system. It has a touchscreen or keypad in which you will be entering confidential codes to arm/disarm your alarm.

Motion sensors

As their name indicates, motion sensors detect motion. When these are activated, you’ll get notified right away. One of the advantages is that you can add as many motion sensors to your alarm as you wish. This is practical because if you have a larger home with more doors and windows to protect, it’s only reasonable that you’ll need more sensors.

Central monitoring station

This is usually a local station that is in charge of monitoring your alarm, receiving signals, and calling you to determine a false alarm or real emergency and dispatch the police right away.

Remote access

You can remotely control your alarm with an app in your smartphone. This app is handy when you forget to arm your alarm. It is also useful when you need to give access to a family member or friend while you’re away on vacation. Some apps also allow you to control your home lights or thermostat.

What Additional Systems Can I Connect to My Alarm?

Panic buttons and smoke detectors.

Do You Have to Be Present When Your Alarm System Is Installed?

The person who will be managing the alarm should be present at the time of installation. Installation shouldn’t take long so this will be the best time to discuss questions and make sure you have all you need to operate your system successfully.

Most security companies provide a user manual for their system. Those who don’t, will usually provide basic training the day of installation. Take this opportunity to ask questions and practice to arm/disarm your alarm. Make sure you know your passwords/codes and what steps to take in case of a false alarm.

Installation Day Checklist:

• Request a user manual for your system or ask about onsite training
• Practice arming/disarming your alarm
• Know what to do if you have a false alarm
  Ask additional questions
  Save your password/codes in a safe place
  Have your security company’s phone number handy.

What are the most common mistakes when using a burglar alarm?

According to VinTech Systems’ president Mun Wong, there are two main mistakes she has witnessed throughout the years:

“First, clients forget to arm their system. Second, they don’t use the stay function to protect themselves against home intrusion.” – Mun Wong

Fortunately, these common errors can be easily fixed.

Using a burglar alarm when you leave home.

It’s easy to forget to arm your alarm system when you are leaving your home in a hurry. However, not doing so would be the same as not having a security system at all. Before leaving your home, take a few seconds to arm your alarm system in AWAY mode.

To arm your burglar alarm in AWAY mode, enter:

Your 4-digit code + the number for (AWAY)

If any of the secured doors/windows are not closed, the system will notify you immediately.

Using a burglar alarm while you are at home?

When you are returning home or going to bed, you should set your alarm to STAY mode. That ensures that any motion sensors inside the house are not active but zones around the home are. Many people don’t use this feature. If an intrusion similar to the ones in Lincoln Park occurs, the alarm will sound immediately and the owners will have the opportunity to contact police right away.

To arm your system in STAY mode, enter:

Your 4-digit code + the number for (STAY)

Depending on the model, there should be additional modes available in your instruction manual.

Get the most from your Burglar Alarm

An alarm system can be an excellent tool to protect your family and home. If you have any doubts or concerns, work with your alarm company to help you use your system effectively. Only this way will you benefit the most from using your system.

More from our blog: When does a False Alarm become a problem?

The post How to Use your Burglar Alarm appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Last year, VinTech systems worked with the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce to increase security in their neighborhood. Our company installed 18  high definition cameras. We had positive results although the the project was challenging. As a result, this project was featured in the latest issue of Security Management. This magazine is published by ASIS International, a leader in the security industry. The article described the approach we took and the results of the installation. Our project draw attention because the process is an example to follow to achieve a successful installation.

Why Hire Experts

ASIS International is a worldwide community of security expertise. Their members have access to resources to help them stay up to date in the security industry. We are proud to be a member!

Hiring experts makes a difference. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. We often hear prospect clients complain about the company who installed their system.  They become frustrated after the company disappears. Neglecting a security system is like not having one at all. Professional companies can help you through the years to maintain your system working properly. Consider it a red flag if a company installs the system and disappears. Professional companies should follow a process and be a reliable.

The Planning Process

The Chinatown  project is a good example of our work process. We planned meetings and choose the right type of equipment. Moreover, we took the time to select appropriate key locations to install each camera. Once approved, we made sure we provided an estimated timeline to complete the project. After installation, we did our best to deliver a complete experience. VinTech systems provided training to account managers. We also helped our clients download the app. The remote access app enables them to access their security system remotely.

Lastly, we conduct regular maintenance twice a year to assure the system keeps working operating properly.  New management or employees sometimes call us to repeat training. We highly recommended regular training of new users.

What our Clients Say

Simon Leung, operation manager of the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, says he is happy with the way the system operates. The security patrol has access to the cameras remotely. He monitors their system from monitors, iPads, and mobile devices. In addition, they can download footage from any of the cameras and provide it to Chicago police if needed.

The Chinatown neighborhood has been a long-time popular community to visit in Chicago. Their restaurants, architecture, and history are loved by both Chicagoan and tourists. We are delighted to see that more clients are achieving results that are improving the safety of our communities.

The post The Aftermath of The Chicago Chinatown Case Study appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The following 5 questions were asked both in the 2011 workshop and the 2016 survey. Take a look at what they have to say.

When asked,

1. How did you break in?

In the survey, 42% said through an unlocked window and 38% said through an unlocked door. In the workshop, they confessed to using back doors, unlocked front doors or windows.

2. Where did you first look for valuables?

In the survey, as much as 75.4% said they go straight to the bedrooms, with both sources said they first look in the master bedroom.

3. Are Burglar alarms or surveillance cameras a deterrent?

As much as 42.1 % said they would leave immediately if they discovered a home or apartment with an alarm system. Cameras also proved effective at 36.8%. In the workshop, answers were mixed  Most said, “I don’t like alarms.”  Others said the alarm would limit the amount of time they’d spend in your home.

4. Would you break into a house or apartment if there was a dog inside?

In the survey, almost 37% said yes. They use food to distract dogs while they commit the crime. In the workshop, their answers were mixed. Some said “yes, I don’t like big dogs”. Others said it depended on the breed. But most said it wasn’t a problem.

5. What is the number one advice to prevent being a target?

In the workshop, 5 out of the 8 men, said nosy neighbors! One burglar said he hated being watched by the people sitting on their porch, drinking their morning coffee as he was walking up and down the street surveying homes.In the survey, burglars said there is nothing more effective than a neighborhood watch. Yes, it may be difficult to believe that burglars just walk into homes with minimal effort. But after all, burglary is a crime of opportunity.

A convicted burglar acknowledged that he looks for activity inside the home, so people are better off leaving a radio or T.V. on. rather than using light timers. Another man from the survey mentioned that placing all valuables in one place makes it easy for thieves. Therefore, it is best to arrange several hiding places to hide valuables. If a burglar finds one of the stash spots, he might be happy enough to stop looking or not be clever enough to find all the hiding spots and so maybe he won’t get away with all your valuables. Taking these measures into consideration can help us outpace this criminal activity.

To view the complete 4-part series click here.

To read more questions and answers from the workshop read part 1 and part 2 of our blog.

The post 5 Odd Tips from Convicted Burglars appeared first on VinTech Systems.