Alarm.com's integration with Alexa makes home security a breeze, allowing you to arm and disarm your system with just your voice.
With Alarm.com, you can control your entire security system from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, making it easy to stay connected to your home no matter where you are.
You can also receive notifications and alerts on your device when there's suspicious activity or a system issue, giving you peace of mind and helping you stay on top of your home's security.
By integrating Alarm.com with Alexa, you can create a seamless and convenient home security experience that fits your lifestyle.
Discovering and Managing Devices
To connect your Alarm.com system with Alexa, you'll first need to set up your Alexa device on the same Wi-Fi network as your Alarm.com system. Once that's done, you can use the Alexa app to discover your devices.
To discover your devices, open the Alexa app and select the "Add a Device" option. You can then search for your Alarm.com system, or ask Alexa to "discover devices" if it's not listed. Since they're on the same Wi-Fi network, Alexa should be able to find the system.
If you need to connect other devices or services to provide further home security, you'll need to follow a few more steps. Select your Alexa-enabled device, choose your home security device, and then activate the appropriate Alexa skill.
Discover Your Devices
Discovering devices is a crucial step in setting up your smart home system. To do this, you can ask Alexa to "discover devices" if you can't find your security system in the app.
Alexa will likely find the system since they're on the same Wi-Fi network. This is a convenient feature that saves you time and effort.
In the Alexa app, select the "Add a Device" option and search for your security system. This is a straightforward process that gets you connected to your devices in no time.
Routines
Routines are actions Alexa performs when certain triggers occur. They're similar to IFTTT Applets, but with a more limited set of actions and triggers.
Each Routine can have one trigger, which can be a custom voice phrase, a schedule, or an action performed using a supported device.
You can trigger routines using your voice by speaking a custom phrase, like "Alexa, let it shine." This phrase can be set up to perform multiple actions.
Alexa supports actions that involve your Alexa device, calendar, music, weather, news, traffic reports, and messaging. She can also respond with a custom skill or perform smart home actions.
For example, we have a Routine set up to turn on the lights when we speak the phrase, "Alexa, let it shine."
Security System Overview
To connect your Alarm.com security system to Alexa, you'll need to follow a few simple steps. But before we dive into the setup process, let's take a look at what makes a security system Alexa-friendly.
A security system needs an Alexa Skill to work with Alexa. Think of it like an app, but for Alexa. Every option on the market has one.
To control your smart devices with Alexa, you'll need a security system that includes smart home features like smart lights, locks, and thermostats. It's not just about security, it's about convenience.
Some security systems may require extra cash to connect to Alexa, but the good news is that many affordable options are available. I've looked into it, and my favorite home security systems are budget-friendly, with or without smart home integration.
Here are the key features to look for in an Alexa-friendly security system:
- Alexa Skill: This is a must-have to connect your security system to Alexa.
- Smart home features: This includes smart lights, locks, and thermostats that you can control with Alexa.
- Price: Be aware of any extra costs to connect to Alexa.
Connecting Security Devices
To connect your security devices to Alexa, you'll need to enable the Alarm.com skill in the Alexa app. This will allow you to control your security system using voice commands.
First, go to the Alexa app and select "Skills & Games" to search for "Alarm.com." Enable this skill and sync your Brinks Home account by entering your Brinks Home mobile app credentials.
To use the system with Alexa, begin by saying, "Alexa, ask Alarm.com" followed by a command like "to arm my system" or "to lock my front door." You can also ask about the status of your smart home devices.
To connect other home security devices to Alexa, you'll need to follow three simple steps. Select your Alexa-enabled device, select your home security device, and activate the appropriate Alexa skill.
Here's a brief overview of the process:
- Select your Alexa-enabled device
- Select your home security device
- Activate the appropriate Alexa skill
By following these steps, you'll be able to integrate your home security devices with Alexa and enjoy a more seamless and convenient smart home experience.
Alexa Safety Features
Alexa has a feature called "Drop In" that allows you to receive live audio from your Ring doorbell, giving you a sense of security and peace of mind.
This feature can be enabled or disabled in the Alexa app, giving you control over who can contact you.
Alexa can also detect potential security threats, such as smoke or carbon monoxide alarms, and alert you to take action.
You can also use Alexa to receive notifications when someone rings your doorbell, so you can stay connected with what's happening at your home.
Alexa's integration with Ring doorbells also allows you to see a live video feed of who's at your door, giving you an added layer of security.
By integrating with other smart devices, Alexa's safety features provide a comprehensive security solution for your home.
Signing In and Managing Skills
To sign in to your alarm system with Alexa, you'll need to enter your login credentials for the security system. This will allow Alexa to cooperate with your alarm system.
Once you've signed in, you can explore the different capabilities you can utilize Alexa with, such as arming and disarming your system, as well as more intricate demands.
To fully take advantage of Alexa's security features, don't stop there. Look for other security-boosting Skills to add to Alexa, like your security company's Skill.
If you don't download your security company's Skill, you won't be able to use Alexa to control it at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use Alexa as an alarm siren?
To enable Alexa as an alarm siren, open the Alexa app, go to Devices, and select your connected security system's settings to turn on alarm sounds. From there, you can customize the sounds to suit your needs.
How do I link my alarm to Alexa?
To link your alarm to Alexa, open the Amazon Alexa app and tap the Link Account button on the Alarm.com card. From there, follow the in-app instructions to complete the linking process.
Sources
- https://www.alarmgrid.com/blog/checking-out-the-alarm-com-alexa-skill
- https://waynealarm.com/smart-home-security-alexa/
- https://www.security.org/home-security-systems/best/alexa/
- https://www.switchful.com/service/home-security/resource/connecting-to-alexa
- https://homealarmreport.com/home-security/be-safe-with-amazon-echo/
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