The energy profile of your apartment, home, or business is always unique. Factors like the square feet of your space, the number of appliances and how often you used them, all contribute to the cost of your electric bill. However, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t ways to reduce this cost. The use of smart technology and daily changes can both make a difference on your pocket and the environment.

What is a smart thermostat?

A smart thermostat is a small device that can be controlled remotely with an App or any other internet connected device. It allows you to schedule your settings to predetermined temperatures and manage the device even when you’re not onsite.  A smart thermostat can also be connected to an existing alarm system and be controlled from the alarm panel.

How to choose a smart thermostat

There are many smart thermostats brands to choose from. If you already have an alarm system in place, the best option is to contact your security company and inquire about their recommendations. Most of the time, they will know which brands and models are compatible with your system. Additionally, it will save you the time of searching for this information yourself.

If you don’t already work with a security company, this article Best Smart Thermostats of 2021 from the Consumer Reports website might be helpful. The report includes brands like Ecobee, Honeywell, and Google Nest.

How to Manage your Home Device for Best Results

If your main goal is to save money on your home electric bill, you’re on the right track. A smart thermostat will help you reduce energy costs by giving you flexibility to manage your device from an app. The settings have a schedule function that you can use to set the thermostat at a predetermined temperature during different times of the day. Controlling your smart thermostat from the app also means that you don’t have to be at home to manage it. This can be especially helpful on days when the weather in Chicago is expected to reach extreme conditions.

Save 10% on your home electric bill by following this rule

If you want to decrease your electric bill by up to 10%, you’ll need to adjust the thermostat temperature to 5 -7 degrees of your normal temperature setting for 8 hours a day. For example, if during the summer you usually set it up at 70 degrees, you can increase it to 75 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. when you’re usually at work or during the weekends when you’re out and about. Once you’re getting ready to go back home, decrease the temperature via the app and arrive to a cool home.

Additionally, since many people have been working from home during the pandemic and expect to continue to do so, one better option is to look for smart thermostats with multiple zones capabilities. This system allows you to set up different temperatures in different zones of your home; which is an ideal fit when you’re spending many hours in your home office.

How to Maximize the Use of a Thermostat in a Commercial Space

Commercial spaces require the same if not more attention to detail than residential homes. Take for example one of our long-time clients who owns a restaurant in the Edgewater neighborhood. They contacted VinTech Systems to install smart thermostats after experiencing a surge of 30% on their electric bill. The restaurant had recently reopened their indoor dining area, but it was still an elevated shift for such a short term. Upon discussing the change with the restaurant’s manager, the owner realized that most employees had forgotten to turn down the room temperature in the kitchen and front area, and before closing the restaurant at night.

In the past, VinTech had offered smart thermostat technology, but at that time, the restaurant owner didn’t think it was necessary as she was often on site. Fortunately, VinTech had already upgraded their Honeywell alarm to be compatible with the 4G network. This meant that if they now decided to install a smart thermostat, they could use a system of the same brand and simply connect it to their existing alarm system.

The restaurant owner now manages the thermostat remotely and immediately saw a decrease of 15% in their electric bill the following month after installation..

What additional steps can you take to reduce your electric bill?

In addition to installing a smart thermostat, we have found these simple tasks to be effective to reduce energy costs:

1. Turn off appliances when not in use to extend their life and decrease the cost of replacements. Unplugging also helps and you can reduce the time dedicated to this task by using smart power strips.
2. Switch your lightbulbs to LEADs. They have a longer life and will save up to 80% more energy.
3. Install efficient showerheads. They don’t only reduce the cost of energy but help by filtrating water.

Final Thoughts

Installing smart thermostats at your home or business can help decrease your electric bill and save you time when you use the schedule settings to set up predetermined temperatures. If you are unsure about how to start as there’re so many options out there, call us today at 773-388-1208. We are here to answer any questions.

The post Can a Smart Thermostat Save you Money? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Property management companies and condo associations have their own rules for tenants. But what happens when a tenant’s guest damages the property or is caught engaging in inappropriate behavior?

A property manager at a condominium building was surprised to see footage from their elevator. A tenant’s guest had approached the property, was buzzed in by a resident, and used the elevator as a bathroom. The property manager reported that the suspect, accompanied by three other individuals, looked straight at the camera and smile.

Is it illegal to urinate in an elevator?

Inappropriate behavior while using the elevator is more common that we thought. With only doing a quick search online, we were able to find several articles and video footage of people using the elevator to urinate. Many others also engaged in other types of unusual activity. Are people not aware that public urination is illegal in all US states? We doubt it. Even T.V. shows have scenes like this and they all end up with the characters getting arrested.  Some others are even forced to be registered as sex offenders. It isn’t funny after all, is it?

How can a camera system protect your property from vandalism?

Footage from high definition security cameras can help a landlord or property manager identify the person who has damaged or vandalize the property. In the case mentioned above, security cameras were a crucial tool. The property manager was only able to have proof of what had occurred in the elevator because of the cameras that were recording.

Nonetheless, the video footage didn’t go to the police right away but instead, the incident was discussed with the unit owner. The video footage showed that these four individuals had entered that particular unit. The owner then received a letter from the condo associations’ attorney with a fine of $1,000 dollars. Of course, the tenants are responsible for paying this fine.

What if the tenant doesn’t want to pay the fine?

Tenants are obligated to pay the repair costs or fines for property damage. This is because most lease agreements specify that a tenant is responsible for any damages to the property. Damage can be caused by themselves and their guests. The tenant can discuss the incident with their guest and try to come to an agreement. Nonetheless, the fine is ultimately the tenant’s responsibility.

Not paying the repair costs or fine means the tenant would be breaking their agreement with their condo association. The property manager can then decide if they should ask the tenant to leave or provide footage of the incident to police. The suspect might not be forced to pay for damages but they can be charged with public urination or in some cases, indecent exposure.

This is what the Chicago Codified Ordinance 8-4-081 states about public urination:

“No person shall urinate or defecate on the public way, or on any outdoor public property, or on any outdoor private property. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b), any person who violates this section shall be fined not less than $100.00 nor more than $500.00. Or shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than five days nor more than ten days or by both such fine and imprisonment.”

So even though an elevator is indoors, it is also a public area. As mentioned earlier, if a person is charged and later convicted of indecent exposure, they not only have to pay a fine but they can be sentenced to prison time. In many cases, they will also be asked to do community service or register as sex offenders.

Will renters insurance cover the cost of property damage from a guest?

Most renter’s insurance don’t cover property damage caused by guests. This is why Condo Associations and landlords do well by protecting themselves with security cameras and specific types of property insurance. Additionally, having a detailed agreement between landlords and renters can save property managers from many headaches. Condo Associations are there to protect you but also have the freedom to have specific rules and fines to protect their properties. Security systems and detailed agreements are very important because as mentioned above you cannot rely solely on insurances. These often don’t cover and infinity set of events. One problem with these insurances is that these don’t cover guests and the other is that they have limitations.

Security cameras are an effective way to monitor suspicious activity. Monitoring your building regularly can help you prevent or minimize damage to your property. Sometimes, suspects won’t even bother hiding but when you have video evidence, it will be easier to be protected.

The post Why is a camera system an important asset to condo and multi-family buildings? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in November 2016 and has been updated for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.

The housing market is booming.

The need to work remotely and spend more time at home has increased the demand for larger living spaces. Additionally, more Americans are buying or refinancing their homes because of the current low interest rates on mortgages.

This could also be the reason why the DIY industry is gaining momentum. The home security systems market alone ‘was valued at USD 53.6 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 78.9 billion by 2025.’

Instead of slowing down during the pandemic, it is reported that homeowners ‘have continued to spend money on home improvements’ while paying special attention to DIY alarm systems.

A DIY alarm system might seem like an attractive option. But, how can you decide if it’s a good alternative for your property?

It really depends on your security needs and how tech-savvy you are.

When you first visit a DIY company website, you might notice that they place most of their attention in the buying process. This is because they aren’t required to obtain a license for installations. In a sense, they are like many other companies that only sell you a product.

This doesn’t necessarily mean bad business. However, it does mean that the company you choose has to be transparent and have a solid foundation. Not all security companies abide by the same values and some advertising of DIY alarm systems can be misleading.

But before you jump into reading reviews and comparing products, the following tips can help you decide if a DIY system is a good fit for you and your home.

Where does a DIY Alarm System perform best?

A DIY alarm system works best for small spaces like apartments or flats. An apartment usually has less doors and windows to secure, therefore, you will likely also need less motion sensors.

A second reason is that most wireless systems have to be within a certain distance of their wireless network. This is not difficult in small spaces but becomes more complicated in a multi-level building.

The Pros of Purchasing a DIY Alarm System

Installation is economical.

A professional installation tends to cost more. This is because of the high quality of the system and the personalized service you’ll receive if you hire a full-service company. This is why one of the main appeals of a DIY alarm system is that if you install it yourself, you’ll save big bucks.

This choice will not only give you the advantage of getting your system sooner but you’ll be saving on initial costs. Nonetheless, it’s recommended to first research the DIY company of your preference to make sure it is well-established. This is important because a DIY system allows you to add other products in the future so you don’t have to buy it all at once.

For example, if you first want to buy an alarm system and a year later a video doorbell, you’ll be able to integrate both systems as long as you buy them from the same company.

It’s also important to ask about the equipment’s warranty and return policy. Since not all DIY alarm systems are good quality, a good return policy can protect you if the system doesn’t work well or it isn’t what you expected. Only because the system fits your budget, it doesn’t mean it will also fit your needs.

Take your DIY Alarm System Wherever you go

If you are tech-savvy, it will not be difficult to uninstall your DIY System. If you rent your apartment or move often, this might be a good option for you. The ability to take the system wherever you go will not only be convenient but installation costs will again not apply as you will re-install the system yourself.

You’ll be Free from Annual Contracts

Most professional security companies require that you sign a 1 or 2 year contract of alarm monitoring services. This means that as soon as your alarm is installed, it will be monitored by a central station. In case of an emergency, the monitoring station will call you to verify if they need to alert the authorities.

In contrast, with a DIY alarm, you’ll have the task of self-monitor your security system.  This means that your alarm system will not be monitored by a central station and when the alarm is activated, it’ll be up to you to alert the authorities. You’ll also be free from a monthly monitoring fee and responsible for any repairs the system will require in the future.

The Cons of Purchasing a DIY Alarm System  

DIY Installations Can Be frustrating

Some DIY companies don’t even include information about the installation process in their websites. They focus on describing the system’s features and having images of people using their systems.

Before you start adding items to your cart, it’s reasonable to want to know if a company has a support team. If questions about the installation arise, you’ll need someone to guide you through the process. You should also ask about the options you’ll have if and when the system malfunctions.

For example, Park’s Associates’ Senior analyst Dina Abdelrazik, told Security Systems News  that “From our data, on average, consumers spend 4 hours or more installing their DIY security system in the home – that is a very long time,”.

Are you willing to spend 4 hours or more installing your system? Have in mind that this time only accounts for installation. Additional hours of your time will be required to self-monitor and repair your system.

This is one of the main reasons why if you are not tech-savvy, its best to stay away from DIY alarm systems.

The post Pros and Cons of a DIY Alarm System appeared first on VinTech Systems.

1. Access your apps from a secure network

2. Identify if your app uses encryption

3. Update your App

4. Use two-factor authentication (2FA)

5. Check your phone for malware

The post 5 Ways to Protect your Remote Access App appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Access control is just what your property might be needing if you live in Chicago. As a property owner or manager, you appreciate all the assistance you can get. Your business’ security, however, is a task you want to delegate to a reliable source. So, how exactly does this system operate?

Let’s begin with the basic components

First, we have the access cards, key fobs, and keypads. Most people are familiar with access cards. Physically, these cards feel and look like a standard ID or credit card but they work as an electronic key when inserted into the card reader. The key fob has a similar function, but instead of being inserted, it is held at close proximity to the reader. In appearance, the key fob is similar to a car open/lock remote control and can be placed along with the rest of your keys. Lastly, the access control keypad uses numeric keys. Each person needs to physically enter a code to be granted entry.

Customize your security system

What if you already have a system in place but its old or not operating properly?

The post Does Your Property Need Access Control? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Remotely Access your Camera Feed.

With remote access, users can view their camera feed anytime. Additionally, they can playback recorded files to view footage. What happens when you go on vacation and don’t have anyone to check on your house? or if you want to check on your pets during the day while you are at work? Have peace of mind by accessing your cameras remotely.

Control your Alarm.

When you have alarm monitoring, if the alarm goes off, the local monitoring station will contact you to make sure everything is OK and dispatch the police if necessary. But what happens when you leave your house and later realize you forgot to arm your alarm? With remote access, you can simply arm your alarm using the App. If you go out of town for a few days, you can make sure your garage door is closed, adjust your thermostat or control your lights. Turning your lights on while you are away can create the illusion that the home is occupied and protect your home from a burglary.

Set up e-mail or text notifications to alert you of a fire or intrusion.

Sometimes burglars find a way to break into a home without setting off the alarm or simply enter the home regardless of the alert. The next five minutes are crucial. Not only will police be notified instantly but you will receive an alert and be able to playback and share video footage of the crime with them.

If you feel that you could benefit from any of these features, contact your security company for more information. They can train you to use the remote viewing App effectively.

The post 3 Top Perks of Home Security with Remote Access appeared first on VinTech Systems.