In this growing world of interconnected everything I'm hoping there's a home monitor that alerts you when temperature falls or power goes out and doesn't require a cable, landline or full-time home network to operate. All these options seem to start at $30/mo or so.

I recently tried one (HouseSetter) that connects via cellular for only $5/month--but it's on a system I can't access (Verizon). I'm hoping there are other devices or options I haven't heard of yet.

 

Simplisafe is one I've had people recommend to me lately but I've never researched it to any degree.

 

I'd be careful with that one (simplisafe)...they had a widely known fundamental security flaw in their first model systems. Not sure if/how it has been resolved.

Here's one story: Forbes Welcome

 

Most systems I've found online are burgler alarm systems that notify the cops of a break-in, and don't have freeze or power sensors.
I'm looking for a home monitor that'll notify ME if the heat goes out or there's a power outage. For a vacation home that sits empty most the time, and has no land line or cable.

Of course a system that does both would be great--but not likely cheap.

 

My in-laws have this on their lake place - we got a call once because the freeze alarm was going off and I think that darn near paid for the system.

 

Security system zones are configurable. The DSC panels, for example, have a specific zone type for environmental alerts. You just have to connect the appropriate type of sensor. On others, there are non-alarm zones that you define for the monitoring center as being a freeze alert.

The problem is "cheap". Anything that is both functional and reliable, is rarely going to be at the free or cheap end of things.

 

That's why I was excited to hear about the HouseSetter unit. $99 device and $5/mo service. It ONLY monitors temp, humidity and power. No external sensors and no ability to add any. Very limited--but exactly what I need, at a price I can afford without feeling like I have to cut back in some other household expense in order to justify it.
The problem with that one is they only use Verizon for notification and I have absolutely ZERO Verizon signal where my cottage is

I've read about several other systems that use cellular but either they include a lot of sensors or they want to make a killing on every installation because they all cost far more, without offering any extra value for my needs. I'm hoping HouseSetter isn't the only one of its kind.

 

I know you said no land line but in the event you can't find anything else, for the cost of a limited use telephone line you could use an alarm telephone dialer. These devices will call you and leave a voice message. Actually, if you only had a low temp sensor attached to it, the very fact that you received a call from the cottage would be a significant alert.

Dakota Alert Slave Auto Dialer AD-01-S (no RF link)

Also, to you and others who may read this. Simple Safe has been called out by the Alarm industries foremost forensic investigator for improper, misleading and downright outlandish claims about it's products along with a reprimand for unethical comments regarding the alarm industry. They refer to alarm industry standards in their literature but don't comply with those standards and their technicians don't know what those standards are either. When the investigator mentioned to a SimpleSafe Tech that the main control ( a large cone shaped device to be placed someone out in the open) was quite noticeable, the tech told him he could put a lamp shade on it to disguise it. Wow! Just what I'd want sitting in my living room :-)

To me, it seems as if they are so aware of the shortcomings of their product that they are trying to misdirect the consumer by badmouthing everyone else.

 

Maybe the one I tried is the only product like it on the market. The company was started by some ex-OnStar guys so I'm betting they have a good idea that others will copy.

 

Not sure what pricepoint you are looking for, but you could get a SmartThings hub for $100 (or less if you catch sale, I think I got mine for $80).

Then you could get a zwave motion / temperature sensor for $30 or less on sale, this kit has motion plus 2 door sensors for $42. You could optionally get leak sensor, $35.

With SmartThings, no monthly service but you do need internet connection.

EDIT - I replied without reading fully about desire for system that doesn't require internet... sorry.

 

They've asked me to wait a few days while they try to work out a solution with Verizon. I don't have much hope. I had Verizon for my family for many years and finally switched us to AT&T because it would work at home AND at cottage.

It's not likely they're going to erect a tower to keep my business.

 

I don't know if this would work in any way, but have you heard of or looked into Project Fi by Google? It's a phone service that taps into 3 LTE cell networks and uses whichever has best signal. I don't see that they have any "mobile hotspot" type devices, but they do advertise using their approved phones as a mobile hotspot. They have a Nexus 5x for $199. Data rates are pricey at $10 per GB, but you probably wouldn't need much data. That's all I know about it, someone correct me or give more details if this helps.

Also regarding my SmartThings post, you could also look into competing platforms like Insteon (they have their own line of sensors and lots of products that might help you out .... Smarthome.com) or Vera (which uses z-wave sensors)... I think either of these will do what you want giving lots of flexibilty on sensors but not require full time internet. You would just provide the internet via some cellular hotspot for the alert to be sent out.

Some other devices.... Freeze Alarms Comparison Chart