4 Smart Home Devices That Keep Working While Youre On Vacation

October 7th, 2022



A lot can happen to your home in Chico, CA while you’re away.  Burglary is an obvious problem, but you can also face issues like leaky toilets, thieves who steal packages that arrive while you’re away, doors left ajar that let in rain and pest animals, and visitors who need to get something from your home while you’re away but who don’t have a key to get in.  For a long time the only way to solve problems like these were to end your vacation early, but these days smart devices can monitor and fix your home wherever you are.

 

Smart Lights

For a long-time homeowners have used timers on table and floor lamps to turn lights on and off at certain hours of the day.  These lights made the home look occupied even when everyone was away and could help deter burglars.  However, burglars are very aware of light timers and can figure out you’re using them by watching a home when the timers go off.  That’s why today you can get smart plugs and timers that randomize when they turn on and off, and many brands also let you change the light schedule remotely through a smartphone app.

 

Security Cameras

Surveillance cameras are a very obvious addition to any security system.  You have to set them high up in corners to get a good view, and so they’re easy to spot.  This is by design:  when burglars and other potential criminals see a surveillance system, they’re much more likely to find another home in Chico, CA to target.  Modern cameras also transmit wireless signals using internet protocol, and that means they can use your Wi-Fi network and send live feeds directly to your phone using a secure app.

 

Smart Thermostats

One of the most common smart upgrades in homes today is the smart thermostat.  These devices work with your home’s existing HVAC system and come with a set of motion and heat detectors that can see where people are in the house and what temperature they’re experiencing compared to the temperature they set.  Smart thermostats come with a setting that automatically puts the system into a high-efficiency mode while everyone is away and will reduce your utility bills.

 

Smart Security

Modern security systems can come completely integrated with smart home devices and give you smartphone apps that let you control your house from any location.  For instance, you can unlock an electronic lock with a tap on your phone, and the security system can alert your phone when the smoke alarm goes off or stops working for some reason.  Because of this, a security system can be the backbone of a whole smart-home renovation.

You’re supposed to relax and live in the moment when you’re on vacation, but many people can’t help but worry about what they leave behind.  And they have reason to worry thanks to burglars, leaks, thieves, and other hazards they can’t control while they’re away.  So keep your peace of mind and go on your vacation by upgrading your Chico, CA with a comprehensive (and smart) security system.

 

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
    Call (530) 327-7268