Does the current trend toward DIY (do-it-yourself) make you feel empowered – or inadequate? Maybe you have one of those Superman-type friends who builds his own deck and remodels his own bathroom. Is he crazy, or is he your inspiration?
Whether your first reaction to a DIY project is invigoration or intimidation,
DIY home security systems will surprise you. If you’re a DIY pro, setting up a home security system may not be enough of a challenge. On the other hand, if you think you lack the skill – or the time – to set up your own security system, you’ll be
shocked to learn how easy it actually is. Whichever way you roll, a DIY home security system will save you both money
and time.
Wireless – the Key to DIY Home Security Systems
Wireless equipment is the key difference between DIY and traditional home security systems. For decades the home security industry offered only one type of alarm system, consisting of wired components. The wiring was complicated and required a skilled technician, who would come to your home armed with a drill and a toolbox. He would run wires through your walls to connect the security sensors to a massive control box, which was so clunky and unattractive that it usually went in a basement or closet.
Wireless technology was around for years before the security industry caught on to its value. In fact, it took some
innovative, game-changing companies like FrontPoint Security to lead the industry into the 21
st century.
Wireless home alarm systems require no wiring – and no holes in your walls. In fact, wireless security components are so easy to set up that technicians are no longer required. The era of DIY home security systems has begun.
How Easy Is It?
One DIY security system user said, “It’s so easy my husband could do it.” Another customer mentioned something about a monkey. We won’t draw any comparisons. But we can assure you that setting up a wireless home security system is easier than you think. Most people have their system up and running in less than an hour. Some have even reported that
20-30 minutes is all it takes.
A wireless alarm system consists of a control unit and several security sensors, which you place around your home to detect signs of trouble. Usually preventing burglary is our first goal when we buy home security, but
a good system will also include sensors to watch for signs of fire or troublesome environmental factors such as a water leak or carbon monoxide. The
best home security companies also offer
options for video monitoring and home automation.
All the DIY security equipment is wireless and should be pre-programmed so that it’s "ready out of the box." You simply plug in the control unit, place the sensors where you want them, and call the alarm company to activate the system. The sensors will automatically communicate (wirelessly) with the controls. You can place sensors on a shelf, or attach them to your wall with a simple peel-and-place adhesive.
No drill or complex connections are required.
Save Money with DIY Home Security Systems
The first benefit of wireless DIY home alarm systems is obvious. If you set up the system yourself, you don’t have to pay someone else to do it. Alarm companies traditionally charge several hundred dollars just for installation, and that’s money you’ll never get back.
Save Time with DIY Home Security Systems
As we mention above, setting up your own home security system will only take between 20 minutes and an hour. Compare that to the time sink required with a traditional hard-wired system. With those, you
first have to schedule an appointment with a sales guy, to get your price quote. Then you need another visit, this time from the technician. For each appointment you have to set aside part of your day, and wait for them to show up. You follow their schedule – not yours. And the hard-wired installation is so cumbersome that it’s likely to take several hours.
Nailed Down – or Free to Grow?
If saving time and money isn’t enough to convince you, consider this: if you get a hard-wired
home security system you won’t have any flexibility after it’s installed. Everything will be anchored in place – so don’t try redecorating! And, heaven forbid you decide to move. If you do, you have to leave your alarm system behind and start over at the new house.
On the other hand, you can
change, expand or move a wireless DIY alarm system any time you want. The equipment is small and portable. And just as easy to take down as it was to set up. Just take your system with you and “DIY” at the new house! With the right alarm company, you can add new sensors or video cameras any time for free, and move as many times as you want.
So we ask again: are you feeling empowered?
