Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Our systems use cellular and Wi-Fi to connect your security panel or base to our Alarm Response Center, as well as to the system’s mobile app. It's more responsive, more connected, and more secure.

Yes. Because your system has Brinks Home™ professional monitoring, 4G LTE cellular backup and battery backup ensure that your monitoring is uninterrupted.

Absolutely. It's much easier for an intruder to cut a landline than disrupt the wireless signal to the Alarm Response Center. If an intruder tries to disable your security panel or base, it will set off an alarm before the system is compromised. Wireless sensors are also secure. Since they aren't constrained by phone lines or wall mounts, they can be placed out of view of intruders. If a sensor is tampered with, an alarm will be triggered as well.

Yes, all of our systems provide multiple ways to arm or disarm your system:

Nest Secure uses the unique Nest Tag, a passcode, or the Nest app. Smart Security Systems use a passcode, the Brinks Home™ app, Bluetooth hands-free disarming, and an optional keychain remote.

That's a popular option for many customers. Smart-home devices are a great way to enhance the real home security we provide. They're easy to add, and compatible devices can be controlled by your system's mobile app.

Nest Secure: The Google Assistant is built in. You can control your home security system, just say, "Ok Google, set security to away and guarding." It also can control compatible connected-home devices, manage tasks, and get answers powered by Google Search. (Mobile Notifications require working internet and Wi-Fi). Nest Secure is not compatible with Amazon Alexa.

Smart Security Systems: Smart Security uses “skills” provided by Alarm.com to control your system and compatible devices through Alexa, Siri, and the Google Assistant. For example, you can say “Alexa, ask Alarm.com to arm the security system.”

In general, only pets over 40 lbs. are capable of triggering motion sensors. To safeguard against pet-triggered alarms, we suggest following the recommendations provided with your security system, and (if possible) setting motion detectors in areas that pets don't normally frequent.

Nest Secure: A Nest Detect sensor (which combines door/window/motion detection) includes one replaceable CR123 3V lithium battery, with battery life of up to 2 years.

Smart Security Systems: Door sensors take a single 3V lithium watch battery, while motion sensors take two lithium AA batteries. Both types of battery last 5 to 10 years.

Door sensors can also be used as window sensors. However, window break-ins are rare, and with the effective protection provided by well-placed door and motion sensors, window sensors are rarely necessary. If you absolutely need window protection, you can add additional sensors when you purchase your system.

Yes. Each sensor protects a door, window, or area, and will indicate the location of the breach when an alarm occurs.

Absolutely. Our cellular backup will connect to the strongest major wireless provider at your location.

We offer Brinks Home Plus, a plan that covers repairs or replacements of your qualified home automation and security devices from Brinks Home. 

Yes. That's one of the advantages of a wireless self-installed system. Just take the devices out of your old home and place them in your new home. Once you have installed your system in the new location, just call or chat to let us know. Your monthly rate will remain the same unless you choose to add additional services.

Of course! Just go to brinkshome.com, or chat with one of our security experts to get started.

Professional monitoring is one of the most important functions of real home security. Your system transmits alarm signals to our Alarm Response Center, a sophisticated 24/7 call center staffed by highly trained professionals who can rapidly notify police, fire or medical authorities during any emergency.

Around-the-clock professional monitoring is also important because calling 911 on your cell phone won't connect you to the correct authorities unless you're currently located within their jurisdiction. The professionals in our monitoring center will alert the correct authorities, no matter where you are.

Once you activate monitoring with Brinks Home™, you will specify a list of emergency contacts. With professional monitoring, once an alarm goes off, the Alarm Response Center will begin contacting the individuals on your list. You can update the list anytime.

It's common for some insurers to provide a discount of up to 20% on homeowner’s insurance if you have a professionally monitored system. Be sure to check with your insurance company for more information.

Nest Secure: The month-to-month rate allows you to cancel your service at any time. However, there will be no refund for equipment, and you’ll be responsible for equipment financed with third-parties.

Smart Security Systems: You'll be responsible for any remaining balance for your monitoring service, or equipment financed with third-parties.

Different jurisdictions have different rules regarding alarm dispatch. However, it's very rare that police won't respond to alarms at all. In many cases, you just need a permit for your home, which we can help you get. Text our Customer Care experts at 469.513.8685 or contact your local law enforcement to find out how alarms are handled in your area.

Every component comes with extra strength adhesive strips to make placement quick and easy. Real home security is especially effective when it fits your needs, so your system may have cameras, thermostats, or other smart home devices. You’ll want to set aside a little more time for self-installation and setup of these systems.

Our systems are specifically designed to be easy to install, set up, and activate. The most important thing is that your system is right for your home. Larger systems, or systems with cameras, locks, or other sophisticated devices might benefit from professional installation. If you prefer someone to install your system, we can put you in touch with a trained professional.

Nest Secure: You can locate a Nest Pro on the Nest website.

Smart Security Systems: Text Brinks Home™ Customer Care at 469.513.8685 or call 866.305.6414 for more information.

We’re here to support you every step of the way, from product installation to activation of your 24/7 professional monitoring.

Nest Secure: The Nest app will guide you through installation and setup step by step. After that, we’ll contact you to activate your monitoring.

Smart Security Systems: One of our technicians will guide you through the process over the phone. After setup is complete, the technician will test your system remotely.

Certainly. Our systems communicate wirelessly through cellular networks and Wi-Fi – no landline needed.

Nest Secure: The Nest Guard base can easily be placed on any flat surface, like a shelf or countertop. It is not designed to be mounted on a wall.

Smart Security Systems: The touchscreen panel can either be wall-mounted or free-standing using the included desk-mount. We recommend free-standing, although wall-mounting a panel is as easy as hanging a picture. Just place the screws in the desired location and attach the panel.

Currently, our systems are only available in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

Certainly. We have a lot of experience transitioning older alarm systems to our monitoring and service. Text us at 469.513.8685 to ensure that you've got real home security.