Security System Setup Dilemma: Go DIY or Hire a Pro?

With today’s alarming crime rates, having a home security system has become of utmost necessity. Did you know that modern-day burglars are so brazen that many of them are unafraid to commit a crime in broad daylight?

In fact, the Poquoson Police Department has advised its citizens to keep their guards up with the burglars operating in the area. Two homes in the city were burglarized in the same method and both incidents were daytime burglaries. Like an evolved vampire, many burglars now appear to have developed a special immunity: they are able to operate even when the sun is out.

In this light, security systems are without a doubt one of your best defenses. However, if yours are not properly installed, your safety and protection are surely compromised. From installing security cameras to sensors, many homeowners are wondering if they should do it themselves or hire a professional. Actually, neither is necessarily better than the other; it all depends upon your need and situation. You may opt for a DIY installation with guides to help you in the process or have a professional installation that goes with your device purchase.

To help you decide, here’s a quick lowdown of the pros and cons plus the things you need to consider.

1. The Issue of Budget and Cost

Choosing a DIY installation for your home security means that you don’t necessarily have to pay any installation fees. This is attractive for those who want to save extra money by setting up the system themselves. Most systems and devices come with an instruction manual that allows you to do it on your own. The Alarm System Store is a burglar alarm store that offers a toll-free support line that can assist you with the basics. The free technical support can help you find your way around the installation process. Also, since you’re doing the installation, it reduces the cost of having a professional to uninstall your system should you transfer to another place or relocate some devices. However, you would still have to shell out a small amount for the tools that should help you in the installation process.

For professional security system installation, you can expect to pay around double what a DIY installation costs. The actual service cost depends on the type of system and work to be done. However, it’s important to note that not all professionally installed systems will cost you upfront. Many companies offer free or reduced costs for equipment and installation when you sign a 2 or 3 year contract. These deals will usually have a much higher monthly fee to cover the discounted upfront costs.

2. What Can Save You More Time?

A DIY security system installation will cost you extra time partially because you are not paying for someone else’s time. While the installation process is not rocket science, there is a learning curve that needs to be climbed before completing the install. In addition to the manufacturer’s installation manuals, there are many resources available to assist you with your installation. Also some companies offer a tech support line to help you if you run into any issues.

With the help of a professional, the process can be done with very little time and effort from you by having the experienced technician do the work for you. Take note, however, that you will still have to schedule an appointment.

3. Ease Your Worry about the Installation Proper

What’s great about DIY or professional home security system is the way they ease your worry about the installation proper. For DIY installation, you can be confident about installing the system yourself, never having to worry about someone new entering the premises of your house and doing the job for you. Just months ago, it was reported how a man from California was able to capture the faces of burglars who attacked his house, thanks to the security cameras he himself installed.

For professional installation, you can have the peace of mind of someone with experience installing the system. The experts are trained to efficiently set up your system. Keep in mind that many installers will lock you out of programming on the alarm system meaning that you will need to go through them to make any changes to the system.

4. Who’s Got Better Knowledge of the Tools and Equipment?

You might think that at this point, the difference of DIY and professional home security installation is that the latter has a clear advantage. Well, not necessarily. Apart from having the instruction manual, there are a lot of smart home security DIY installation tips that can help you have a firm grasp of the process.

If technicalities are not your forte, a toll-free support can be a lifesaver or opting for a professional installation will definitely do. However, if you lack some of the tools needed, know that you won’t have to purchase them with the help of a professional installer as they have these tools on hand. Should you wish to do the DIY route nonetheless, rest assured that there are a good number of credible companies that supply tools, quality products, and accessible support lines.

5. The Importance of Having a Comprehensive Assessment

Who knows your home better than you? In most cases, homeowners have a clearer idea of safety assessment and the areas of the house that need security. These areas are usually easy to spot especially if you’ve lived long in your house. Given this, a DIY alarm system merely allows you to actualize what you likely already know about how to best protect your home. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the available devices and their uses.

However, if your knowledge of both the security system and your living environment is limited, a DIY installation can be complicated and frustrating. In this case, enlisting the help of a professional can unload you of the hassle of assessing where and how to place a particular device. The technician will also be able to ensure that your security system is fully functional and can immediately assess problems that need to be fixed.

6. The Benefit of Convenience

The best types of alarm system installation allow you the convenience to set them up on your own. You basically only have to deal with yourself in installing the system, where and when you want it. As said earlier, it has now become possible and easy to do DIY installation given the available information and technological advancements. You can literally take matters sitting down because you have the help of gadgets which you can control with your fingertips.

But if you’re at a loss about how to properly install or program an alarm system, it can be seriously inconvenient and unsafe to force yourself to do it on your own. In this situation, a professional installation is your better option. The technician can efficiently do the job for you as you sit back and relax.

Have you decided whether to go DIY or professional? As a final word of advice, consider making a decision based on your technical proficiency and the security system equipment to be installed. The pros and cons are largely dependent on the types of alarm system installation and how to install them. Pick the option that you think is best for your security needs and specifications.