DIY home security systems are an option if you have a basic understanding of technology, can confidently select your own equipment, and are looking to save some cash. The Wi-Fi network in your house can be used by many modern home security systems. Because of this, you won’t need any additional equipment or knowledge of electricity to set them up, and the instructions they come with are often straightforward. What’s more, if you get stuck, the majority of DIY home security firms offer phone help.
If you’re wondering whether or not a do-it-yourself home safety system is a good idea, we’ve put out some of the key factors to think about below. We also provide a list of the best and least expensive home security systems that you can instal yourself, along with details on their prices and how the setup procedure works. Looking for security monitoring in Melbourne? Worry no more as Security Systems has you covered.
Ranking Do-It-Yourself Home Security Systems
In my opinion, the Abode Essentials Starter-Kit is the greatest do-it-yourself home security system. It’s one of the cheapest smart security packages on the market, starting at roughly A$317, and it has built-in smart home features, allowing you to set up devices including smart lighting and smart gate locks alongside everything else.
The only catch is that no extra sensors or cables are included, however these may be had for a fair amount separately. It’s also one of the handful of security systems that’s compatible with Apple’s HomeKit smart home framework.
The Ooma Home Security-Kit (A$285) is the ideal do-it-yourself home safety kit for individuals on a tight budget, as it includes motion sensors as well as some interaction with other smart-home devices. Lack of cellular backup, though, may be a deal breaker for some.
SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe is cheap and simple to set up, with a basic package named “The Foundation” costing just A$363. It has an entry sensor, a motion sensor, a wireless keypad, and a base station. Self-monitoring via the smartphone app includes 30 days of motion activated camera recordings costs A$16 per month, while the professional monitoring plans cost A$24 and A$40 per month, respectively. If you need more than one camera or a video doorbell, go elsewhere than SimpliSafe’s single offering. However, SimpliSafe is a great option for those who need the security of a sophisticated system but don’t want to deal with too much complexity.
Cove
In addition to low-cost monthly monitoring, Cove Security provides cheap, albeit necessary, equipment. Instead of selling pre-configured systems, Cove helps you set up your system by asking you a series of questions regarding your home and your needs. Cove has an extensive selection of security systems, with sensors beginning at A$24, a touch screen alarms panel for A$395, and two cameras (interior and outdoor) but no camera doorbell. Professional monitoring from Cove costs either A$24 or A$40 per month; the latter adds support for Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Self-monitoring is unavailable, and cloud video storage comes at an additional cost.
Frontpoint
Frontpoint is a do-it-yourself home security system with simple, straightforward components. Its base kit, which includes a hub & keypad, two door or window detectors, one motion sensor, a yard sign, five window decal, and a door sticker, can be purchased for A$466. However, the A$80 monthly monitoring price is more expensive than most do-it-yourself home alarm systems.
Abode
Abode is a cutting-edge, all-inclusive, do-it-yourself security system that offers a variety of devices and affordable monthly fees. Abode’s entry-level kits range in price from $363 – A$694, and include a hub that functions as both a camera and a motion sensor. Self-monitoring is free of charge, while paid monthly monitoring options range from A$9.50 to A$32. Abode provides three different security cameras, the cheapest of which can be purchased for A$48, and all of its security components are simple to set up and use. Abode is a Z-Wave system, which means it is compatible with hundreds of other home automation devices.
Ring Alarm
Ring is a cheap security system with a A$315 installation fee, A$16 monthly monitoring, and A$315 of cloud-based video storage. The base station, keypad, motion detector, door/window sensor, and wireless range extender are all included in the company’s entry level Ring Alarm Security-Kit. Ring also provides a wide variety of security products, including some of the most well-liked security cameras & video doorbells (albeit not a keyfob). Amazon owns Ring, and the company’s security system works seamlessly with the Alexa home automation ecosystem for automation & voice control. In addition, smart door locks as well as other home automation devices can be managed through the Z-Wave technology that Ring employs.
Blue
Blue, which is owned by ADT, is a DIY platform that enables many of the benefits of a pro ADT system, such as high-tech hardware and expert monitoring, without requiring a customer to commit to a lengthy three-year contract. Blue is an app-operated system with two different starter packages starting at A$345. A smart hub, keypad, and two door/window sensors are included with this pricing, and extra security equipment can be added for A$24 to A$80 per unit. Three security cameras from Blue by ADT may be purchased for A$317. This includes an inside and outdoor camera in addition to a video doorbell. You can use the motion-activated clips for free for a whole day. Self-monitoring is free, but professional monitoring, which includes cellular backup, costs A$32 per month.
DIY Home Security Systems Can Save You Hundreds
Twenty years ago, wireless home surveillance systems were widely regarded as unreliable. They gave off so many random errors that many homes stopped using them. That’s no longer the case. Professional-grade, wireless security technology is now readily available in do-it-yourself home security systems. This equipment is also easy to instal and quite inexpensive.
Home security systems can be purchased for as little as A$356 and as much as A$1,267. Including wireless smoke/heat detectors will increase the price of a do-it-yourself alarm system by roughly A$2,058. To compare, that is still less than half of what a real alarm company will charge. The monthly fee for a monitoring service that calls the authorities in the event of a fire or burglary can be as much as A$63. Nonetheless, it can be had for roughly A$16 monthly if you do some comparison shopping.
Here, we’ll walk you through the steps of planning a do-it-yourself home security system that you can have up and working in a day. We’ll also demonstrate how to instal a home security system without breaking the bank and in a way that minimises disruption. Installation of a home security system is a breeze. The transmitters are installed on the doors and windows, and the control panel is linked to the power and phone lines. DIY home security systems require only common household items like a drill, screwdrivers, a wire stripper, and a tiny pry bar.
Tools Required
- Multi-function, 4-in-1 screwdriver.
- Set of drill bits.
- Cordless drill with driver.
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- Cutter/stripper for wires.
Materials Required
- System for wireless security
Project Step-By-Step
Save A$160 Right Now and A$48 per Month in the Future
You may easily protect your home with a wireless DIY system by installing transmitters on your windows and doors and linking a control center to your phone line. You should expect savings between A$475 – A$950 in materials and labour. You’ll save even more money because you won’t have to sign a costly, long-term contract with such a home security provider. If you’d rather, you’re free to look around and pick whichever monitoring service suits you best. This will result in a permanent savings of roughly A$48 each month.
Putting in Window Transmitters vs. Motion Sensors
It has been suggested by some security system technicians that motion sensors be used in place of window transmitters. These detectors function similarly to the ones used to activate outdoor floodlights in the event of motion. We recognise the potential savings from such an approach, but we advise against taking it. Most unnecessary alarms can be traced back to motion detectors. Even worse, they can only identify break-ins after the fact. This may put you in harm’s way if you encountered a burglar in the hallway. The only instant method of detecting break-ins is through the use of door and window transmitters.
Do not be persuaded that motion detectors are sufficient in place of these. Additionally, glass-breakage sensors can be installed if desired. The majority of burglars only shatter glass while attempting to gain entry through a window or door. Then, a conventional transmitter will pick up on their entry through any opened door or window.
Create the Most Effective Do-It-Yourself Security System for Your House
Start by drawing a sketch of all the windows and doors on the first floor of your home to determine how much transmitters you will need for your do-it-yourself home security system. Starting with the main entrance, label all of the doors and windows in clockwise order. If your garage is attached, you must also include the service door. Then, only upper-level doors that can be accessed without a ladder should be counted. A patio door should be included in the deck’s head count.
Your home is at greater risk from fire than from an intruder. Therefore, you might want to consider adding wireless smoke detectors to your security system (at a cost of around A$143 apiece). That manner, if there is a fire, the alarm system will alert the monitoring service, and the facility will then contact the fire department. One wireless smoke alarm must be installed on each level as a minimum. Place a smoke alarm on the ceiling of each hallway that connects to a bedroom, as well as in each bedroom itself. Install a ROR(rate-of-rise) heat detector above your gas furnace, water heater, and dryer, and connect each one to a transmitter.
You must then select the type of interface you prefer. Two distinct kinds exist: You can recognise a “cabinet-style” panel by its keyboard and circuit board, both of which are installed near the door. Panels that are “self-contained” consist of a single piece that is installed close to the entrance. This one-piece panel may be more convenient to set up, but it does have a flaw. A potential intruder who enters the door could rip it off the wall even before panel has finished alerting the monitoring agency. The circuit board in a split panel will continue to function even after the keypad is removed. To connect any type of panel to the phone lines, you will need a specific phone connector (an “RJ31X”).
Please Keep In Mind the Need for a Permit
Permits (about A$40 yearly) are needed for DIY alarm systems in most localities. Get one from your local licencing office and display it prominently in a window besides the entrance. A fine and a reprimand from the police are possible after the first false alarm if you don’t.
Shop Online
Most consumer electronics stores don’t carry high-end alarm systems designed for businesses. Instead, you could get on your computer and look for information about security alarms and systems. Find retailers that offer a wide selection of home security systems to avoid being stuck with a product you don’t like. Find a vendor that not only has what you need, but also provides free system programming & technical assistance. Verify that the provider doesn’t call for a costly, extended monitoring agreement. Get in touch with the vendor for a pre-order chat first. Create a list of everything you need and get assistance setting up the alarm system from the staff. Make sure the components are labelled for their respective areas by asking.
Choose a Supervision Provider
There is no need to have your do-it-yourself security system linked to a monitoring provider that contacts the authorities. The device may easily activate a warning siren. However, you should not overlook the significance of alarm checking. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report, burglars are not deterred by the sound of sirens. They estimate that it will take the neighbours at approximately three to five mins to phone the police, and another identical amount of time for the cops to arrive. If you have a monitored home security system, the authorities will be notified much more quickly. Many insurers provide rebates to help cover the cost of monitoring devices because they recognise the value of rapid response times for police and fire departments. Therefore, you should contact your insurance company.
Alarm monitoring services normally need a three-year commitment and price A$64 per month. DIY home security systems can save you at least A$570 annually in monitoring fees by eliminating the middleman. Try looking up “alarm monitoring” online. Check to see if the company is approved by a reputable organisation like UL.
Verify that the monitoring service is capable of handling digital phone conversations or VoIP calls if you have just migrated to these services. If not, it might offer other alarm signalling options such the Internet, cell phones, satellites, and radio transmitters. Inquire about any extra service fees that may apply, as well as the price of the supplementary equipment.
Deter Criminals
Intruders only target homes that present little difficulty in stealing from them. Tell them that you have taken precautions by installing an alarm system. Put up signs in the yard, stickers in the windows, and your alarms permit so that burglars will know that your house is protected.
Enjoy the Outdoors, Safely
Install the transmitter and magnet 6″ above the sill of your double-hung windows. Attach another magnet to the sash’s underside. Activating the mechanism in this way allows you to leave the window cracked open little while yet feeling safe. The burglar alarm will go off if the window is opened any more.
Make Use of Concealed Magnets in Casement Windows
Casement windows may be more difficult to open and close if they have plunger connections. Take advantage of “recessed” magnetic connections instead. Simply make a hole inside the sill next to the opening side of the window. Put a mark there, and punch another hole in the sash where the magnet will go. Next, cut a slot at an angle into the side trim. Hook the wires and “fish” them out towards the transmitter using a bent coat hanger.
One Point of Contact, Multiple Windows
If your building has multiple rows of windows, one can use a single transmitter for all of the contacts. That’s a cost savings of around A$95 for a set of three windows. A cleaner appearance is an added bonus. The caveat is that in order to get cables under the sill, you’ll need to take off the bottom section of trim.
Let Security Systems get you peace of mind by installing top-quality and reliable home security cameras in Melbourne.
Several Good Causes to Install a Do-It-Yourself Security System in Your House
Investing in a home security-system is a wise decision for several reasons. There is always a chance of a break in, even if property crime has decreased for the past seventeen years running. Additionally, along these lines, a trade group called the National Council on Home Security and Safety found that residences without a safety system were 300 times as likely to be burglarized.
You should instal a DIY security system because:
You’re Looking for a Cheap and Easy Method of Home Security
Do-it-yourself security systems are simple to install and set up in a single afternoon. The greatest DIY security systems provide equipment and technology that is functionally and aesthetically equivalent to that used by professional installation security firms; the main difference is that you mount it on the wall personally rather than paying someone else to do it.
You Plan On Enlarging Your Existing Home Automation System
Most sensors used in do-it-yourself security systems are compatible with common home automation tools, allowing you to automate things like lighting in response to motion detectors. The central nodes of such systems are also often the backbone of a more comprehensive home automation infrastructure. The vast majority of professionally installed security systems don’t allow you to use any other brand of smart home gadgets. Most do-it-yourself systems, on the other hand, are more open, enabling you add dozens of devices from 3rd parties to the hubs, giving you more leeway to construct a home automation-system that’s tailored to your unique requirements.
You’re Attempting to Cut Costs
Do-it-yourself security providers undercut their professional-install rivals on pricing since they don’t have to pay for expensive salespeople and installers. DIY organisations have substantially less ongoing charges, with monthly monitoring expenses as low as A$16 compared with as high as A$95 with pro-install businesses. Furthermore, no long-term contracts are required, and some services even provide the option of paying in monitoring for a single weekend.
Security Systems provides expert CCTV installation for your residential or commercial infrastructure.
Conclusion
If you’re comfortable with technology and can make educated decisions, installing a home security system yourself is an option. DIY home security doesn’t have to break the bank, thanks to the Ooma Home Security-Kit. When a high-tech surveillance system is a must, SimpliSafe is a fantastic choice. Through a series of questions, Cove Security guides you through the installation process. Abode’s starter packs cost between $363 and A$694.
Do it yourself with Frontpoint, a home security system that uses basic, easy-to-understand parts. Ring, which Amazon owns, is compatible with the company’s Alexa smart home system. It’s possible to instal a home security system yourself with common tools like a drill, screwdrivers, and a wire stripper. The Blue system is app-controlled and has two base packages, each of which costs a minimum of A$345. You can get a home security system for your house for between A$356 and A$1,267.
Installing wireless DIY transmitters on your home’s windows and doors is a simple way to increase security. Not having to commit to a pricey, long-term contract will help you save even more cash. Motion detectors are the leading cause of false alarms. Wireless smoke detectors are an optional addition to any alarm system. The facility’s alarm system will notify a monitoring service, which will then notify the fire department.
DIY alarm systems require annual permits (approximately A$40), so keep that in mind. If you instal a home security system yourself, you can save at least A$570 per year on monitoring costs. There are a lot of insurance companies that offer discounts on monitoring devices to help with the financial burden. It has been documented that burglars are not deterred by the sound of sirens, according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report. Thousands of pounds’ worth of valuables won’t be stolen if you tell them you’ve taken precautions by installing an alarm system.
Do it yourself security systems are easy enough to set up in a single afternoon. The best do-it-yourself security systems feature hardware and technology that are virtually indistinguishable from that used by professional installation security firms, save for the fact that you mount it on the wall yourself rather than paying someone else to do so.
Content Summary
- What’s more, if you get stuck, the majority of DIY home security firms offer phone help.
- We also provide a list of the best and least expensive home security systems that you can instal yourself, along with details on their prices and how the setup procedure works.
- In addition to low-cost monthly monitoring, Cove Security provides cheap, albeit necessary, equipment.
- Three security cameras from Blue by ADT may be purchased for A$317.
- Professional-grade, wireless security technology is now readily available in do-it-yourself home security systems.
- Here, we’ll walk you through the steps of planning a do-it-yourself home security system that you can have up and working in a day.
- Installation of a home security system is a breeze.
- You may easily protect your home with a wireless DIY system by installing transmitters on your windows and doors and linking a control center to your phone line.
- It has been suggested by some security system technicians that motion sensors be used in place of window transmitters.
- Start by drawing a sketch of all the windows and doors on the first floor of your home to determine how much transmitters you will need for your do-it-yourself home security system.
- Therefore, you might want to consider adding wireless smoke detectors to your security system (at a cost of around A$143 apiece).
- One wireless smoke alarm must be installed on each level as a minimum.
- There is no need to have your do-it-yourself security system linked to a monitoring provider that contacts the authorities.
- Therefore, you should contact your insurance company.
- Intruders only target homes that present little difficulty in stealing from them.
- Tell them that you have taken precautions by installing an alarm system.
- Enjoy the Outdoors, SafelyInstall the transmitter and magnet 6″ above the sill of your double-hung windows.
- Attach another magnet to the sash’s underside.
- Several Good Causes to Install a Do-It-Yourself Security System in Your HouseInvesting in a home security-system is a wise decision for several reasons.
FAQs About Security Systems
Investing in a Home Security System: Is It Worth It?
The reality is that home security systems serve multiple purposes, including deterring would-be burglars, alerting residents of impending danger, and providing valuable evidence to law police in the event of a break-in.
Will a House Alarm System Prevent a Break-In?
There is overwhelming evidence to support this conclusion. The results of research into the effects of installing a security system in the home have been mixed. As much as 60% of burglars who are scoping out a potential target would be put off by the presence of an alarm system.
What’s More Effective, a Security System or Surveillance Cameras?
Security systems are more all-encompassing than CCTV systems, which is the main distinction between the two. Camcorders, or at least video doorbells, are common components of security systems today. In addition to using their eyes, sensors and detectors are used to keep tabs on any possible invaders.
Is It Safe to Install Your Own Security System?
While there are benefits to a do-it-yourself home security system, such as lower costs and easier installation, there are also advantages to hiring a professional security service. Despite the fact that most do-it-yourself systems can be set up in a few hours, nothing could be easier than having a trained professional instal your system.
Is It Possible to Breach a Home Security System?
A wireless alarm system can be hacked, to put it briefly. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a certainty. You can do quite a bit to protect your networked devices and systems from hackers, despite the fact that any networked device or system is theoretically vulnerable.
