Home Security System Prices
Are you interested in installing a home security system in your home? Find out everything you need to know about home security systems, including the best home security companies and the average costs associated with home security systems in this brief guide.
When you are a homeowner, there are few things more unnerving than the thought of your home being broken into and you and your loved one’s safety and security being compromised. It may be an excellent idea to set up a home security system to deter and prevent unauthorized entry onto your property. As a home security system can be an investment, it is important to make sure you are informed. This helpful guide will detail what a home security system is, what the most common types of security systems are, the best home security systems on the market currently, the costs associated with home security systems, and if you should choose professional installation or self-installation.
What Is a Home Security System?
A home security system secures the entry points of a home to prevent intruders from entering the home Typically, home security systems equip windows and doors with sensors which all relate back to one main control panel. When the sensors go off, the person entering the home must enter an access code to deactivate the alarm or a signal will be sent to the homeowner, the security company, and potentially law enforcement.
Many home security systems involve the following components:
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Security cameras: State-of-the-art security cameras connect to Wi-Fi allowing you to livestream footage, receive mobile notifications when cameras detect suspicious movements, backup footage onto storage, and speak through the camera.
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Motion sensors: Motion sensors are placed near doors and windows so that they can detect suspicious movements.
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Glass break sensors: Some intruders will open windows slowly and quietly which is why motion sensors are placed near windows, and other intruders will break glass windows in order to avoid tripping those motion sensors. Since that is the case, advanced home security systems also detect glass breaking.
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Sirens: Sirens are loud enough to scare away anyone who tries to break into your home.
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Panic buttons: Panic buttons allow you to alert all emergency services with a quick press of a button.
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Keypad and main control: A keypad allow you to activate and deactivate the security system and the main control receives all the data and delivers it appropriately.
If you have a full home security system, it may also include smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and water damage detectors.
What Are the Types of Home Security Systems?
There are many types of home security systems including:
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Self-Installed Home Security Systems: If you consider yourself handy or only require a small home security system, you may wish to purchase your own parts and install them yourself.
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Professional Systems: A professional home security system refers to either a system that is installed professionally, or that relays information back to a professional company. In the latter case, you can install the system yourself or professionally.
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Wired: A wired home security system is wired directly into your current electrical system.
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Wireless: A wireless home security system may run on batteries or electrical plug-in. It may relay information through Wi-Fi.
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Smart: A smart home security system connects to the internet and delivers notifications to your mobile device.
What Are the Best Home Security Systems?
When you wish to purchase a home security system, you need to trust your company of choice with reliable equipment, proper detection, and sufficient follow-up. Since this is the case, you may wish to invest in a home security system from the top-rated home security companies in the United States.
Vivint
Vivint starts all their home security systems with motion sensors and 24/7 monitoring from their company. You can then add on a variety of features and devices onto this package, such as interior and exterior cameras, lurker detection, water detection, smoke detection, frozen pipes, and more.
Frontpoint
Frontpoint offers a wide array of high-end, state-of-the-art home security products, such as keypads, keyfobs, touchscreen main panels, smart thermostats, smart plugs, light controls, smoke and heat sensors, carbon monoxide detectors, flood detectors, motion sensors, glass break sensors, garage door sensors, and many different types of cameras. Frontpoint's "The Safehouse" offering is an exceptional deal. At the time of this writing its 67% off, for a total of $129. It also includes a Free doorbell camera. With a monthly financing deal as low as $4.16 a month, this is one of the best prices we've been able to find in the home security market.
Ring
Ring is one of the most popular home security options on the market currently due to their valuable products and affordable pricing. You can purchase packages of 5, 8, or 14 pieces to make sure your home or business is safe and secure. Moreover, their monitoring service starts at only $20 per month.
SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe provides a straightforward and affordable approach to home security. You have the option to choose exactly which equipment and how much monitoring you would like to have. Choose from entry sensors, motion sensors, panic buttons, glass break sensors, extra sirens, outdoor cameras, indoor cameras, doorbell cameras, smart locks, and multiple types of hazard sensors. Simplisafe has a no contract set up, meaning you only pay for the security that you need, when you need it.
ADT
ADT is one of the most trusted home security companies in the U.S. as it has been around since 1874. All of their plans include 24/7 monitoring, professional installation, and many services and repairs. You can build from their basic package which includes intrusion detection, hazard detection, a touchscreen control panel, and voice control.
How Much Does a Home Security System Cost?
A home security system involves four separate costs: the cost of the initial equipment, the installation cost, activation fees, and the monitoring cost per month.
Home Security Equipment
Whether you are purchasing high-quality equipment separately or a complete package from a home security company, you should expect complete home security system equipment to be an investment. A basic gear package may be between $350-$700 on average. When you add on extra devices or gear, you may expect to pay an additional $20 to $1000.
Installation
If you are considering performing a DIY or self-installation, you may save money in installation costs. However, if you have opted for a wired system, it is important to hire a professional as you are handling an electrical system. Moreover, a professional installation may bring you peace of mind knowing everything is set up and working as it should. Although some companies such as ADT offer installation in their packages, you may expect installation prices elsewhere to cost between $70 and $300.
Activation
Once your home security system has been installed, you may need to pay activation fees. These are fees you pay towards the home security company to turn on the system and begin monitoring. While some companies do not charge for this service, others may run up to $300.
Monitoring Fees
The final cost associated with a home security system runs on a monthly basis. Every month, you will need to pay your home security company for their monitoring services. On average, they may be between $15 and $60 per month.