Dear Jim: I am considering using a monitored security system instead of many outdoor floodlights. Wireless systems seem good. What are the best home security systems and are there any less expensive options? – Pete S.

Dear Pete: Your thoughts about floodlights are correct. There are better and more efficient security methods than switching on outdoor floodlights at night. In addition to just providing protection from burglars, new high-tech security systems can help monitor your entire home, children, fire, heating, flooding, appliances, etc.

Newer wireless systems rival hard-wired ones for reliability and they are much easier to install. You can install a wireless kit yourself, but it is often better to have it professionally installed. The experts know exactly where to place the various types of sensors and you may end up needing fewer than you assumed for an overall savings.

The new wireless sensors are much smaller and can barely be noticed. My old wireless system required battery changes every year and my cats would set off the motion sensors. My new system uses three-year batteries and my cats (or anything less than 40 pounds) will not trigger the motion sensors.

Many systems, like mine, have hard-wired control panels, but all the window, door, motion, smoke and fire sensors are wireless (batteries). Select a model with a lighted keypad and LCD display for convenience. All systems have a continuously recharging backup battery that powers the control panels and siren if your electric power goes off so protection continues.

For a large family, select a security system that incorporates a message center and personal paging. This allows you to control the system remotely from any telephone with your security code. There is also a secondary code for your children that gives them control over only restricted functions.

Several security systems are integrated into an entire whole-house control system. These can also control the heating and cooling and start appliance and lights in your home. They can be controlled from a PC or by the telephone. They can even alert your pager when you children arrive home from school.

Mini-indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras improve security and safety. One camera mounts at your front door with a monitor by the door to view visitors before you open the door. Another wireless camera can be placed anywhere in your home. Its remote-control base will change the camera’s angle to pan an entire room and view it on a television. It can also be viewed or controlled from a PC.

Write for (instantly download – www.dulley.com) Update Bulletin No. 499 – buyer’s guide of home security system, camera and device manufacturers listing features, prices and do-it-yourself home security tips. Include $3 and a business-size SASE, and send to James Dulley, 6906 Royalgreen Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45244.