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What is geofencing in Minneapolis and how can it be used with my home security?

September 11, 2023
Man uses smartphone to adjust home security settings when leaving

Aside from all the amazing things new home security systems can do, there is still a human element involved. While it’s true you can switch off your smart lights, lock your entrances, and even change your temperature levels from your cell phone, you may still neglect to do so. But what if you could have your smart home instantly change settings simply in response to where you are? It’s possible with geofencing.

Learn more about this functionality and how it works with your Minneapolis home security.

How does geofencing work?

Geofencing works by setting up a virtual geographic boundary around a defined location, such as your house. This boundary is typically created through Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) or Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. You can turn on geofencing via your security system’s mobile app. After enabling the virtual perimeter, your smart home will detect the location of your phone. When that is completed, your security system can tell whether you are within or outside the specified area. You can now enable what actions you want to happen as you come back home or leave.

How to incorporate geofencing with your Minneapolis smart home

When incorporating geofencing with your home’s security, you’ll find numerous options. Before implementing your system, considering precisely what you can set up through your cell phone app is a smart approach. There is a definite security bonus as you can have your system automatically lock your main entrance, activate your alarm, and even bring down your garage door when you depart. On the contrary, when you return home, you can use geofencing to open your garage, unlock your front door, or switch on lights.

You’ll enjoy added convenience and potential utility savings along with improved security. Imagine being able to adjust your home’s comfort settings automatically according to your location. There’s no point in running your A/C or furnace at full blast when you’re not in the house. Instead, you can program it to promptly adjust when you leave and then go back to your preferred settings upon your return.

There are numerous components you might operate through geofencing, including:

  • Smart thermostats
  • Entry locks
  • Smart lighting and plugs
  • Garage doors
  • Cameras
  • Motion sensors

Seeking an alternative to geofencing? Set schedules and automations

In addition to geofencing, many security systems allow you to program scheduling and automations. To illustrate, you may order your entrances to secure or exterior lights to engage at designated moments every night. You could even have a few actions happen at the same time when you’re heading to bed. Or you may set custom “If This, Then That” rules like disengaging your locks whenever a smoke detector is triggered.

Contact Vivint for home security geofencing in Minneapolis

Take advantage of home security geofencing in Minneapolis by consulting with the pros at Vivint. Our modern smart homes will take your security and convenience to another level. Give us a call today at (612) 662-1765 to start customizing your system.