DIY (Do-it-Yourself) Installation
For most people, the advantages of DIY home security systems far outweigh the disadvantages.
In a DIY installation, you buy the security system from a security company and then install it yourself. DIY installation has become commonplace, so many of the best home security companies offer great customer care, live support, and video guides to make it as easy as possible for even the least technically capable homeowner.
Recommended DIY Home Security Systems
These are some of the most recommended home security systems with DIY installation:
Advantages of DIY Home Security Systems
1. Avoid installation fees
DIY is not simply cheaper, it’s completely free. This is the biggest advantages to doing it yourself. You don’t have to pay any installation fees. All you need to do is buy the equipment. You can order it online and many companies offer free shipping. With equipment that can be installed yourself, usually the setup is very easy and just a matter of plugging the base and then following the on-screen prompts.
2. Convenience
When installing a home protection system yourself, you don’t have to schedule and wait for a professional to come and install it. This is an amazing advantage as you won’t need to miss hours of work (and payment) while waiting for a professional to show up within a certain time window. As soon as you receive your equipment in the mail, you can set it up yourself before or after your office hours.
3. Moving is easier
A common complaint about the home security industry is the need to pay a new installation fee or renew a lengthy contract if you move homes. If you install the system yourself, when you move to a new home, you simply take the system with you and install it again, potentially saving yourself significant costs.
4. Simple setups
Wireless security systems are not complicated to install, and most companies that provide DIY security systems will have very clear instructions to help you do it quickly and easily. If you have any trouble, you can always call their customer support and ask them to walk you through the process.
Other Considerations for DIY Home Security Systems
1. Factor in the cost of equipment
The cost of installation is lower, but sometimes the systems themselves can be more expensive because you usually have to own the equipment, not lease it. This may even out with cheaper monitoring fees or even month-to-month contracts, however. When considering DIY home security systems, be certain to compare all of the costs. Know that many companies offer custom packages based on your needs, so you only buy exactly what you need. There are companies that also offer 0% financing options for equipment so you won’t need to pay the total cost at once.
2. Time for installation
It takes time to install and you have to do it yourself, though there are home security companies, like Frontpoint and Cove, that boast that their installation takes only about half an hour. With a professional installation, you can just sit back and let someone else do everything for you!
Always make sure to read all of the information about a security system and how easy or hard it is to install before you open your wallet. We rate and review the best home security systems to help you choose the most appropriate one for you. Our expert reviews contain all the details you need to make an informed decision.