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The internet is bursting with DIY home security tips and tricks. But are they better than professionally installed alarms? Here, we’ll explore the pros and cons of installing a DIY security system in your own home.
The Essentials of Home Security Systems
When you think of a “home security system” what do you picture? A set of windows and doors outfitted with pressure sensors, motion detectors, and infrared beams designed to catch intruders? It’s no wonder that people are opting for DIY home security. However, to even consider a system of any kind, you first need to look at a guide to the best home security providers to determine which one’s best for your house or apartment. Today’s alarms are not your grandparent’s systems anymore. They’re harder to get past than ever before. But is setting one up on your own easier than hiring an alarm company? How long will it take? Will it be worth the money saved over professional installation services? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of DIY home security.
The Pros of Setting Up a DIY Home Security System
The number one reason people choose to go DIY is for the simple fact that it saves them money in the long run. From start to finish, professional installation services usually come with an expensive price tag. This cost can be as high as $1000 or more depending on what you need installed, where your house is situated, and other factors that will influence this price point.
In contrast, putting together a security system yourself will only set you back at around $200. You’ll save money upfront because you bought all the equipment separately from different companies/vendors instead of going with a single company that quotes their lowest price across the board. Another pro is that it can be done in a few hours without any outside help. You’ll never have to wait for an appointment, and you won’t need tools beyond what’s provided with your equipment.
Professionally Installed Systems
A professionally installed system may seem simpler to use in theory, but the truth is most DIY customers are just as satisfied with their systems once they understand how it works. While companies will guarantee that their equipment is top of the line and easy to operate, they don’t have much say about what kind of customer service you’ll receive after your contract is up.
It’s not impossible to get this type of help from an alarm company, nor is it expensive… but it is something else to consider when determining price points. Plus, you can expect a responsive customer service team if anything goes wrong or requires adjustments on your own time without having to pay for additional service visits. The installation might take a few days longer without someone overseeing things, but you’ll still be able to install your home security system without any prior installation knowledge.
The Cons of DIY Security Systems
One thing novices will quickly learn is that the internet doesn’t contain all the information they need to assemble their equipment properly. Customers can end up with holes in coverage or gaps that make them more vulnerable than before they installed their security equipment. Some systems are designed for outdoor use only; if yours isn’t, you’re taking an unnecessary risk by installing it indoors, especially since this voids warranties and may even break your equipment. While DIY is something everyone with basic computer skills can do successfully, there comes a point where inexperience can prove dangerous… often after paying top dollar for what you hope will be a good product.
The Bottom Line on DIY vs. Professionally Installed
At first, switching to a DIY home security system might seem like the perfect way to save money over hiring an alarm company. However, it’s not uncommon for novices to start with high hopes before hitting a brick wall of information overload… at which point they give up and return their purchases en masse. Fortunately, you need only spend a little time shopping around for reputable vendors to find all your equipment needs without losing sleep or safety in the process.
On one hand, DIY is better because you’re in control from start to finish and the equipment you buy is guaranteed to work together. On the other hand, professionally installed systems offer a much stronger sense of security that comes with additional monitoring services and customer support when needed. In the end, both systems have their pros and cons… but which one do you prefer?
Go with what you know – take the plunge into DIY! Alternatively, hire an industry professional who can handle everything from installation to service calls if anything goes wrong. The benefits are laid out, so you won’t be forced to guess what’s best for your home security.
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