Total Connect Solutions
Is This Your Business?Author: Kalicia Bateman
Total Connect Solutions is a home security and home automation company based out of Pensacola, Florida. The company provides security and automation solutions to those looking for both self-monitored and professionally monitored systems. The comprehensive security solutions allow for complete access from one mobile app.
Total Connect Solutions has worked hard to be a dealer of today’s top security and automation equipment. Customers have the option of choosing between two security manufacturer’s products when installing security or home automation products.
Customers that work with Total Connect Solutions have the ability to integrate a home or property with video, motion, and perimeter surveillance as well as climate control within the home.
Top Ranked Companies
The Good
- Equipment Partner
- Wireless DIY Installation
- Home Automation Service
Equipment Partner
Total Connect Solutions has diligently worked to maintain professional relationships with high quality security and automation equipment manufacturers. In order to provide the latest security and automation equipment to its customers, Total Connect Solutions has become an authorized dealer of both Qolsys and 2GIG Technology systems.
Customers will be able to decide which system fits their needs best. Both systems are wireless and do not require a phone line to be installed. These systems can also be remotely accessed and monitored. Self-monitoring plans begin at just $13.95 per month for 2GIG systems. Equipment packages can come with video, motion, and perimeter sensors and surveillance. Automation packages can come with climate control and other smart home capabilities.
Many security companies are authorized dealers, but most work exclusively with one manufacturer. Providing two options to customers sets Total Connect Solutions apart from other services in the industry.
Wireless DIY Installation
One of the biggest draws to the Total Connect Solutions platform is the fact that all of the equipment is wireless. No phone line is required. There is no need for an electrician or contractor to come in and start drilling holes during system set-up like other home security companies do. Total Connect Solutions customers can simply place equipment throughout their home or property and connect each device remotely to be controlled through one centralized app.
DIY installation allows for reduced upfront costs — as no installation fee will be charged — and protects the structure of the home from unwanted damages.
Home Automation Service
The main focus of the Total Connect Solutions platform is its home automation service and capabilities. The advanced technology used by Total Connect Solutions allows for comprehensive coverage and automated services. Services can include climate control, light capabilities, and security solutions.
Customers looking into using Total Connect Solutions for home security services would be wise to look into the company’s complete home automation packages. While many home security companies in the industry provide home automation services, the equipment can be limited or require professional installation. That is not the case with the wireless home automation package through Total Connect Solutions.
The Bad
- Customer Complaints Surrounding Contract
- Undisclosed Information
- Service Area
Customer Complaints Surrounding Contract
One of the most common online complaints surrounding Total Connect Solutions stems from the contract terms and restrictions. While many home security companies require some sort of contract to begin service, not every company locks down customers for several years. On average, customers are locked into 12- to 36-month contracts.
However, Total Connect Solutions customers are subject to 60-month contract terms. There is no information regarding termination fees or penalties, but companies that require a contract typically charge early termination fees.
Undisclosed Information
Due to the nature of contract complaints, further research revealed that there is a significant amount of undisclosed information when it comes to the Total Connect Solutions' overall service. There is no pricing information on professionally monitored systems. There is no information on early termination or contract specifics. There is no information on guarantees or warranties afforded to customers.
Typically, home security companies make this information public to prospective clients, but that is not the case with Total Connect Solutions.
Service Area
As an authorized dealer of Qolsys and 2GIG Technology, Total Connect Solutions is restricted to a certain service area. The company currently services residents and commercial business owners in the Pensacola, Florida area. Outside of this region, prospective clients will need to look elsewhere for home security solutions.
While some home security companies are locally focused, many can service homeowners on a regional or national level. That is not the case for Total Connect Solutions.
The Bottom Line
While Total Connect Solutions has done a good job of creating relationships with top-tier security manufacturers and providing advanced home automation services to customers, there are too many unknowns surrounding the company and its practices. The service area is restricted to residents of the greater Pensacola area, and complaints surrounding contract terms are red flags.
Prospective home security customers should conduct further research before utilizing Total Connect Solutions as their home security provider or go with a different service entirely.
