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With residential security systems more and more important, especially during these uncertain times, it’s best to research and compare equipment, customizations, smart home integration, and pricing.
While some choose professionally installed and monitored systems, there is also a do-it-yourself (DIY) option suitable for smaller living spaces, apartments or other temporary living spaces, and those on a budget. Boasting features such as easy setup and installation, smart technology integration and customizations, a DIY solution could be your best bet. Increased technology also position DIY systems appropriate for smaller homes with less square footage.
Should you decide to go DIY, it’s best to purchase equipment and products from a reputable service provider offering *professional support in your area, such as General Security.
Below we’ll outline DIY security system benefits, features, equipment, smart integrations, and more.
DIY Home Security System Benefits
& Features
DIY is suitable for tech-savvy consumers comfortable installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting security systems on their own. While this can save money in the long run, it’s best to purchase equipment from a professional service provider offering local assistance. Should you have an issue or challenge during installation, they can walk you through the process.
While DIY systems can be self-monitored or managed through 24/7 Central Station Monitoring, it’s recommended to also utilize a compatible smart app, offered through providers such as Alarm.com. Boasting real-time alerts and check-ins, notifications can be customized for activities such as alarm disarm/arm, remote monitoring, and others.
Both DIY and professionally installed systems provide real-time alerts, the latter additionally features installation and services provided by a trained professional. These experienced providers can recommend the best placements for your alarm’s motion sensors, window and door contacts, and security cameras. They also employ best practices, to prevent intruders from tampering and bypassing these devices.
DIY packages usually don’t require service contracts and other fees. While this could be helpful on a budget, it’s wise to check the fine print to be sure. As aforementioned, purchasing the equipment through a local provider is best for assistance and follow-up questions.
This solution is also easier to transport when moving to a new living space or area. A typical DIY solution can comprise an alarm panel, window and door contact sensors, motion sensors and one security camera. While this is a basic system, you can scale up or down on as many technologies as you require.
DIY Home Security Questions
When deciding to pursue the DIY route, it’s best to examine budget, equipment, and specified technologies. Consider additional questions, such as:
- How large is the area I want to secure?
- Do I need 24/7 Central Station Monitoring?
- What types of products can I afford?
- What happens if something breaks, and I can’t service it on my own?
- Is my living situation temporary or permanent?
- What are my necessary technologies?
- Do I want to include smart home integrations?
If your home and property is on the larger side and you require several security cameras and additional technologies such as geofencing, video analytics, and others, professional installation is probably a better approach.
DIY Home Security Equipment Choices
Decide first what and where you want to protect. An alarm system with contact and motion sensors, security cameras, and fire and life safety devices are most important.
General Security offers several equipment types and technologies for DIY installation.
Alarm Systems
DIY is suitable for tech-savvy consumers comfortable installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting security systems on their own.
Available as a minimalistic or comprehensive security system, alarm systems are best positioned on the side or front of the home to thwart potential burglars, trespassers, and vandals. While both DIY and professionally installed networks provide increased safety and security, a smart alarm system features programmable technologies for review from any mobile device.
Some insurance companies might also offer up to 10-percent discounts on homeowner policies. It’s best to check with your provider for exact amounts and specifications.
Contact Sensors
These detect changes within monitored areas. If there’s any movement on your premises, such as a door opening or someone walking by, a real-time alert notifies of any activities.
Security Cameras
Choosing from indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras, these can help deter break-ins, vandalism, and so-called “porch pirates.” Regardless of which you decide, each can be programmed with the Alarm.com app for remote viewing and real-time monitoring.
Fire & Life Safety Devices
Installing wireless smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are critical components of your home’s fire and life safety plan. Each detector sounds an alarm when smoke and/or carbon monoxide is identified, alerting both residents and relevant first responders via Central Station Monitoring.
DIY Smart Integration Technologies
Consider smart integration for increased protection and convenience. Controlling and monitoring security and household functions, this technology automates and sets thresholds for protection, energy efficiency, and other capabilities.
Smart Door Locks
Using a personalized code, this technology unlocks your doors directly from your mobile device, providing protection from intruders, and granting specialized access. This also helps users who’ve had their keys lost or stolen—preventing lockouts.
Temperature Control & Flood Sensors
These detect moisture and leaks, monitor temperature fluctuations, and regulate heating and cooling systems—helping avert flooding and other detrimental issues.
Glass Break Sensors
While some might overlook these security components, glass break sensors help prevent break-ins and burglaries, especially when utilized in areas with several windows. Installing just even one of these sensors can be the difference between additional property loss and damages.
Lighting & Outlets
Available for switches, dimmers, LED bulbs, and outlets, these can all be controlled from any mobile device. Whether you forgot to turn off lights, televisions, and other electronic devices, or want customized settings, these help save money on household utilities.
Garage Doors
Automate and schedule garage doors to open and close at certain times each day. This is also helpful if you’re away for extended periods and need remote access for a house-sitter, neighbor, landscaper, or other pre-approved parties.
Should you decide to go DIY, it’s best to purchase equipment and products from a reputable service provider offering *professional support in your area, such as General Security.
Deciding on the DIY Route
Should you choose DIY home security, it’s best to purchase equipment through a reputable provider, such as General Security, for the highest level of technology products and professional support.
General Security provides a complete line of security products and equipment for DIY setup and installation. Contact us today for questions, or additional support.
*For DIY customers located within General Security’s designated U.S. East Coast service areas.
