Which option is right for you: DIY Home Security vs. Professional Installation? When answering that question, it’s important to educate yourself about the pros and cons of a DIY alarm system.
First of all, it’s great that you’re considering a security system for your home! A home security system is important in protecting you, your family, and your property in many ways.
- Protection – CPI Security systems helps protect your home from burglary, fire, smoke, and other emergencies.
- Monitoring – Monitoring services, like those offered by CPI’s award-winning team, automatically notify a central station. They can then contact authorities in case of actual emergencies.
- Peace of mind – You can feel more secure knowing that your home has cameras, alarms, and sensors watch your back while you’re sleeping or away.
- Smart home technology – Many home security solutions offer smart home technology. Devices like video doorbell cameras, smart door locks, and smart thermostats make life more convenient.
But not all home security systems are built equally.
DIY Home Security Systems
The do-it-yourself option allows you to pick and install security equipment yourself. This option is readily available, easy to find online or at large retail chains, and (on the surface) cheaper than professional installation. But, is home security really the space where you should be cutting corners to save a little money? Because often, when it comes to even the best DIY security systems, not only are you on your own for the installation, you’re also learning how to use your system and even self-monitoring your protection yourself.
At first glance, avoiding installation fees, monthly monitoring, and signing a contract might sound right for you. But it’s important to remember what it is you are purchasing a security system for in the first place. Your protection and peace of mind! Because home security is complicated, DIY installation can be too. And unfortunately, knowledgeable installers may not be available at DIY security companies to help at all. (CPI Security offers free installation for all new customers, by the way!)
Also, without a trained professional installing your system, there’s room for error in protecting your house. Sensors may be incorrectly installed, leading to notification headaches and false alarms. Corners of your home may not be properly covered by cameras or motion detectors. Or an incorrectly installed device could lead to frustrating false alarms and system errors.
When Should I Chose DIY Security?
But perhaps you’re handy and can install the system yourself without any major hurdles. A DIY security system is popular for a reason, after all. The DIY security system route can be ideal for short-term use for many people and families. If you rent, or plan to not stay in your house for long, a DIY security system is a fast and inexpensive way to provide some protection for your home. These circumstances may not require fully integrated security solutions, or as robust of a system with multiple video cameras, motion sensors, and other smart devices.
However, if you plan on staying in your home long term, it’s worth investing in a security system that you can rely on. One that you know is professionally installed, and, importantly, is monitored 24/7 by an award-winning team. That’s where CPI Security comes in.
What Makes CPI Different… And Better.
To start, professionally installed home alarm services like CPI Security are more reliable than even the best DIY home security options available. And it starts with (FREE) professional installation by knowledgeable technicians who are trained, licensed, and employed through CPI.
Not only are they there to ensure a 100% accurate installation, they’re security system experts too. Our installers know exactly where to place sensors, cameras, and other security devices to provide maximum coverage for your home. After installation, our professionals will be there to teach you exactly how to use every feature and function of your new equipment. We want every customer to be completely comfortable using their new home security system.
Another enormous benefit of CPI over DIY is 24/7 alarm monitoring. This means that when an alarm is triggered, our Charlotte-based central monitoring station is notified immediately and audio and video verification is triggered. This allows our team to dispatch emergency services to your home immediately if the situation calls for it. Talk about protection and peace of mind! Some DIY security companies may offer monitoring at an additional cost. With CPI, you can rest assured knowing we’ve provided Real Time Response℠ and fostered relationships with local police, fire, and emergency services for over 30 years! Just check out some amazing reviews we have gotten from happy CPI customers.
Security Systems Save You Money in The Long Run
We get it though, sometimes the number one priority has to be finding a good, but cheap home security system. If you plan on staying in your home for a long time, a professionally installed security system may actually save you money over the long term!
DIY systems may seem cheaper up front, but they often require ongoing maintenance and updates that can quickly add up over time. On top of that, many homeowners’ insurance policies offer discounts if your home has a professionally monitored security system. These discounts can quickly offset the cost of the system and monitoring itself.
DIY vs. Professionally Installed Home Security
Ultimately, it is up to you. But we hope that this article gives you a little more insight into ensuring that your security system is effectively protecting the things you love. Consider these things before making your choice:
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Is having 24/7 professional monitoring important to me?
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How much of my budget am I willing to spend on home protection?
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How long will I be in my current home?
If monitoring is high on your priority list, you plan to live in your home long-term, or you feel more peace of mind knowing that your system was set up by a pro, give CPI Security a call. You’ll always have our customer service team and our monitoring team in your corner, helping you when you need it, and keeping you safe 24/7.
Ready to get started? Give us a call today at (866) 412-4024 for your free quote.