Despite the rising cost of home security, many feel safe in the fact that they have some sort of protection in place. However, investing in a burglar alarm or video surveillance system can be financially daunting. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to help consumers find affordable security products and discount home security systems.
You can do a lot of simple security things yourself for very little cost, and we’ve gathered everything you need to know on how to cut your home security systems costs without compromising your safety. Keep on reading.
What is Home Security, and What Does it Cost?
We’ve written an article about home automation security that covers the basics of the system, but we thought we’d follow up by outlining some average costs.
For a complete home security system, there are typically three components that aren’t necessarily required together: A physical security system, a professional monitoring system, and an Internet connection. While each system varies in its capabilities, home security typically requires a control panel, motion sensors, and a series of 24/7/365 monitoring services, all of which work independently from one another. There are other options, including smart home automation, but that’s for another article.
Security system: Home security systems typically consist of a control panel, motion sensors, contact sensors, a keypad, and an optional video security camera. The control panel is the brain of the system that monitors and communicates with your sensors and guard services. The sensors (or image sensors) detect motion and contact the monitoring service in the event that it has a fire alarm or detects movement on your property. The keypad contains information pertaining to the system, such as passcodes and the security company’s contact information.
Monitoring service: While technically not part of the security system, monitoring services are the gateway to contacting emergency services, which should always be part of the security system. You’ll want a monitoring service in the event of a fire, a high-risk situation, or during a power outage. For a minor malfunction such as a sensor being triggered because of a chunk of ice on the sensor, the monitoring service can alert you and provide the next steps, but for a real emergency or a fire, your professional monitoring service is one of the main components.
Internet access: Though the system doesn’t necessarily require Internet access for communication, it requires it for programming and scheduling certain events. A common home Internet connection is 10/100Mbps, but for security purposes, always consider getting a slower connection such as about 50/5Mbps.
Sensors: Your system could include motion sensors, smoke and carbon monoxide sensors, water leakage sensors, glass-break sensors, and more. You’ll be able to choose one or many of these to best fit your needs.
Alarm components: This includes sirens, strobes, and speakers. These components stop intruders in their tracks and alert the authorities.
Monitoring service: This is an essential component of a home security system. It serves as a 24/7 monitoring center that is connected to your system. The monitoring service will be alerted when a sensor is triggered and dispatch police or fire personnel if necessary.
Mobile app: This is an important addition to a home security system as it gives you full control of the system from anywhere. You can easily monitor the system, arm or disarm it, and control your lights, locks, cameras, and more.
In conclusion, a basic home security system can include many components such as sensors, alarm components, monitoring service, and a mobile app. Depending on your need and budget, you can pick one or many of these to make sure your home is secure and safe.
An Overview of Home Security Options for Different Budgets
There are many options when it comes to home security systems. Depending on your budget, you may need to choose wired home security systems that work together to ensure your home is kept safe.
Each device may also come with installation costs that may need to be taken into consideration. Follow the steps below to learn the types of home security systems you can add to your home, along with the home security costs associated with each of those options.
HIKVISION – Home Security Camera Installation Price: $0
By now, most of us have heard commercials for HIKVISION and its home security cameras, also known as ‘intelligent IP cameras’ or ‘security cameras’. These cameras can be used in homes and businesses alike and familiarize homeowners with having security cameras in their homes.
Your typical monitoring center will be able to keep an eye on your cameras and notify you if there are any problems.
SMART Home Security Systems – Installation Price: $300-$500
Smart home security systems, or smart home security systems, are an option to add an alarm system and a security camera to a home.
There are various types of smart home security systems available, including a few that offer protection for both sides of the home.
You can opt for a DIY smart home system or have one professionally installed. While you have the option to self-install, this may require that you have the technical know-how to do so.
The DIY systems are available from Zenn, Piper, Vivint, and others. If you opt for a professionally installed smart home security system, you will have three options to choose from.
These are Go Safer Security, ADT Pulse, Vivint Smart Home, and Frontpoint. All four security companies offer a variety of features, such as remote access, motion sensors, and an app-based monitoring system.
You can also opt for cellular monitoring with any of the professionally installed systems, which adds an extra layer of security.
Overall, the installation cost of a smart home security system is typically between $300 and $500. Factors that can affect the price include the level of security, the type of system, and the length of the contract.
Finally, some smart home security systems offer add-ons such as video surveillance, smart locks and lighting, and remote access. These additional features can cost anywhere from $50 to $500, depending on the system and the features you choose.
How to Save Money on Home Security, and Which Companies Charge the Least
Purchasing a new home security system can get a little pricey; these aren’t just some gadgets that go into the attic after they’re installed; they protect one of your largest investments. It’s often difficult to budget for the cost of home security, but you could save hundreds of dollars on home security equipment by choosing a system that is right for you.
The next question, then, is whether you should also opt for a DIY route or a professionally installed system. Some smart home security services believe that DIY installations are cheaper and certainly more convenient. However, when it comes to the safety of you and your family, a few precautions are as important as security, and we recommend that you consult with the pros when it comes to your home security system. The biggest security benefit is better peace of mind.
When considering the average cost of home security, it’s important to research available options and select the one that fits within your budget. Many companies offer discounts on installation and home security equipment, and you should compare the average cost of installation and equipment between the different companies to get the best deal. Many home security companies also offer financing and payment plans, so it’s important to consider what options are available.
Before making a purchase, it’s also important to consider the level of security your home needs. If you live in a high-crime area, a more robust system with more features may be necessary. Other factors to consider include the type of sensors, motion detectors, and cameras (including wireless security cameras) that are included in the system.
Finally, consider researching the customer service offered by the home security company and make sure it meets your customer service needs.
How to Choose the Right Home Security System for Your Needs
When selecting your next home security system, it’s essential to consider factors including:
What protection do you need: Do you need to control your entire home or just one room? How do you wish to arm your system? Do you prefer wired or wireless home security systems? Do you need a camera? Do you intend to self-monitor or rely on a monitoring service? Which monitoring service do you wish to use?
The technology: Although the home security system market is typically flooded by DIY (Do-It-Yourself) options, homeowners should strongly consider going with professionally installed ones. More efficient and correctly installed security equipment combined with 24/7 monitoring can’t be matched by DIY. There are other benefits to professionally installed security, such as lower upfront equipment costs and the option to adjust the system as your life changes.
The budget: Of course, every home security system solution is different, so you’ll have to find the right system that fits your financial restrictions. Finding the cheapest solution can wind up costing you more since each security system isn’t intended for every type of consumer. Read our guide on home security pricing to get an idea of what to expect.
The monitoring service: We recommend using a monitoring service such as Go Safer Security as ADT or Vivint. ADT provides 24/7 monitoring and dispatch of a professional response team in the event of an emergency. Go Safer Security offers 24/7 monitoring, but also provides medical and environmental monitoring, as well as home automation services. The cost of monthly monitoring depends on the type of monitoring and services included.
The installation: Many companies offer professional installation of their home security system. Many of these companies will provide a professional technician to install the system. This is usually done in one day and involves running cables, setting up sensors, and programming the security system.
Tips for Keeping Your Home Security System Cost-Effective
The cost of installing a webcam or security system used to be beyond reach for most homeowners. Fortunately, it no longer takes thousands of dollars to achieve home security. And there are plenty of inexpensive security devices that can be had before investing in a bulky, expensive alarm system.
If you’re hoping to have your home protected from intruders, here are some ideas to get you started:
Get smart security: These days, you can buy smart devices that will alert you if a door or window is opened via a separate device. Invest in a few security cameras and smart lights to start. These devices can vary in price, but a security camera usually ranges between $50-250. If you’re on a very tight budget, a 2.4GHz or 5GHz router can act as a basic home security system.
Observe motion: Motion sensors can also help you detect intruders. Although they can take time to register movement, they can be placed strategically around your property. The other option would sign are window decals and yard signs like this one here, which might draw the attention of burglars.
Secure your garage: Purchasing a door sensor for your garage door can make it a lot harder for intruders to gain access to your home. While it requires a bit of installation, it’s a great way to measure the perimeter of your garage. Another option might be to have an alarm installed, but this can get expensive.
Wireless security system: Wireless security systems are the newer, more modern standard. They work by having two devices communicate with one another via radio signals rather than hardwiring them directly to one another.
Wired systems might be cheaper up front, but wireless systems cost less in the long run. If you already have a wired system, you can supplement it with wireless motion sensors, doorbells, security cameras, and more.
Isn’t a Digital Security System More Successful Than a Wired one?
Although wired security systems have proven successful over the years, today, there are still plenty of homeowners who are reluctant to have a wired alarm system in their houses. However, wired security systems can become easily dislodged by burglars. While this isn’t always the case, it does happen.
On the other hand, digital security systems are much more successful than wired home security system ones since their signals are sent and received over a wireless network. Additionally, these systems are easier to install and can be integrated with other home automation systems, such as lights and thermostats. This makes them more secure and reliable.
Understand the Importance of Professional Installation and Monitoring Services and How you Can Save Money by Using Them
Professional Alarm monitoring services have a lot to offer. While a DIY security system offers an affordable and comprehensive solution, professional installation services have innumerable advantages. Furthermore, freelance installers may not provide the same comprehensive service. For this reason, we recommend only choosing a professional installation service when it comes to home security.
For example, when you use an installer with solid industry experience and expertise, you are going to get the best DIY security solution according to your budget. You’ll also get worry-free installation, flexible solutions, and round-the-clock monitoring and support.
Before you decide if professional installation is right for your needs, you’ll want to make sure you have a positive online reputation for customer service. Trust the recommendations and reviews from past clients when it comes to choosing a reputable company. Once you decide on who you want to hire, we recommend you get in touch with the professionals to set up a consultation.
Discussing your home and installation needs with them will allow them to provide you with a free quote based on your needs. Lastly, review the quote you get from several companies, compare them against each other, and go with the best deal.
Now that you understand the importance of our industry expertise, if you’d like to hear more about our services, contact us at 800-GO-SAFER (467-2337). We’re here for you.
We’ve been helping folks like you secure their homes for decades. In fact, we staffed our factory with only experienced techs and held a 100% satisfaction guarantee. And, today, we’re still committed to crafting high-quality solutions at a price you can afford. Learn more about who we are and what we do on our About Us page.
Look for Discounts: Investigate Various Home Security Systems Providers to See if They Offer Any Discounts or Special Deals on Home Security
Do your research when you’re looking for a home security system. You might find that you’re eligible for some discount or other promotion when you first begin the survey to buy. When first enlisting in a home security plan, be sure to ask about any possible discounts you might find.
Be ready to shop around: There are plenty of different home security companies on the market. All of them come with different offerings, prices, and packages. Shop around and go through different packages, advertisements, and reviews to find a package that fits within your budget and offers the security options you want.
Examples of Discounts:
Discounts for military veterans or current military members: The American Veterans Association (AVA) offers home security discounts to veterans, helping to protect them and their families. In fact, virtually every major home security company offers discounts to veterans. In many cases, special discounts are available in addition to first-year membership or maintenance fees, or for veterans who need replacement alarm systems equipment, according to the AVA.
Homeowner discount: Ask for a discount if you’ve already moved to your new home. Often, new homeowners are eligible for a discount when first signing up for a home security system. Check the paperwork or ask a technician at signing up (or when signing contracts) for a homeowners discount, which is usually code for a discount as an incentive to secure a new account.
Military discount: Many homeowners are eligible for discounts when purchasing a home security system. According to unofficial reports, almost every major home security provider offers some military discount. If you’re a veteran, active or retired military, a member of the National Guard, active duty military, or surviving spouse, you could be eligible for a discount. Many offer 15% off in January, with 10% off for February, March, April, and May.
Senior discount: Many senior citizens are eligible for a discount on their home security. Usually just an add-on discount to the home security system cost of a first-year membership, there’s usually some protection for seniors who have fallen or are vulnerable due to declining health. Senior discounts often come with free equipment and monitoring for specific periods of up to several months.
DIY Security CCTV Cameras: Learn How to install DIY Security CCTV Cameras to Save Money Without Sacrificing Safety
It’s surprisingly easy to setup your own DIY home security camera system. For a basic system, you can even get away with just a decent smartphone, some internet bandwidth, and a few basic security accessories. As long as the camera, wireless router, and everything in between satisfy some basic requirements, you should be able to enjoy affordable, no-fuss security to monitor people and pets at home at all times.
If you already have an internet-connected camera, like one of the best-selling Amazon Echo Show smart devices, trying connecting the device to your home network. If you don’t have a smart camera yet, the three-buttoned Amazon Echo Dot is the most affordable entry-level option.
Starting your own security camera network does require a bit of technical knowledge. But using the system is as simple as logging into a protected website, like Canary’s cloud storage system. Once you have access, you can view live footage, receive notifications about security breaches, and if needed, activate live-streamed protection.
Don’t forget to name your security zones in the description, so you can detail the event as it unfolds. Even with basic security measures, it is important to ensure your home is safe. Ensure your camera is set up in a secure place, with no view of the street or any open doors or windows. Make sure your wireless home security router is up-to-date with the latest security protocols, and try to change your router’s password every so often. And don’t forget to back up your data, just in case! For more information and guidance you can visit our Go Safer Security Knowledge Page to help you with your setup.
Conclusion
Cutting home security system costs does not have to mean compromising safety. With the right security provider, homeowners can find home security systems that fit their budget and provide the protection they need. Go Safer Security (GSS) is a premier and trusted home security provider and home automation company in Maryland that can provide complete home security packages tailored to the needs of its customers. Our cutting-edge technology and experienced staff make us the perfect choice for any homeowner’s security needs.
Give us a call for a free quote today!
