No matter where you live, your family could benefit from the added protection of a home security system. A DIY home security system offers a bundle of security technologies that are competitively priced, tailored to your unique needs and easy to install. In addition to saving on the cost of installation, you’ll have no contractual obligations for system monitoring. Let’s take a closer look.
DIY Security System Buyer’s Guide
What is a DIY Home Security System?
A DIY security system includes all of the components and features of a conventional home security system, and it can be run on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or Z-Wave/Zigbee® technologies. You can also find systems compatible with Apple Siri®, Amazon Alexa, Google Nest and other voice-command home assistant hubs.
The big difference between conventional and DIY systems is the ability to build your system with the components that make the most sense to you. Add cameras, control hubs, keypads, door and window sensors, smart locks, smart lighting, motion sensors, smoke and carbon dioxide detectors and other elements of your choice. Build a sophisticated system from the go or start with the basics and add components over time.
These smart home protection systems are wireless and most are so easy to install that you can avoid the cost of professional installation.
Many systems do not require a long term contract for professional monitoring or install. Take full control through an app installed on your smartphone. Real-time video feeds and notifications of automated actions allow you to monitor your home 24/7, from anywhere.
How to Plan Your DIY Security System
As mentioned, one of the primary advantages of a DIY home security system is the ability to custom tailor the system to your home and family’s needs. That means you have a few basic planning decisions to make.
- Unique Structural Needs – The layout of your home and grounds are determining factors. Ground-floor doors and windows probably require more monitoring than upper floors. Do you have outbuildings that should be protected? Where should cameras be positioned to best identify both guests and intruders?
- Placement of Control Hub/Panel and Other Component – Make sure the keypad is easy to access and use by family members, but not immediately obvious to anyone else. Cameras should also be positioned inconspicuously, making it harder for intruders to deliberately avoid them.
- Customizable Motion Sensor Technology – Does the security system allow you to place motion sensors exactly where you’d like them? Can the technology tell the difference between humans and a child, pet, or moving object? The best technology is customizable enough to minimize false alarms and give you the earliest warnings possible.
- Fire and Carbon Monoxide Sensors – Help stay well protected from fires and carbon monoxide with the strategic placement of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide sensors.
- Video Resolution and Viewing Angles – High camera resolution will mean clearer footage and freezeframes. This is crucial if you care about distinguishing details, such as making out a person’s face, clothing or accessories. Spend the time you need positioning cameras to minimize blind spots and provide the most comprehensive views of your property possible.
- Video Storage Capabilities – How long do you want to have access to the images generated by your video cameras? Some systems allow for limited free storage of stills or video, anywhere to a few day up to a week. Other systems might offer a monthly charge for unlimited or 24-hour storage. High resolution video results in much larger file sizes, if you’re keeping footage yourself. Consider the cost and storage needs that work best for you.
- Compatibility with Existing Systems – If you have home assistant technology such as Google Nest or Amazon Alexa, you might want to select from DIY security system components that offer connectivity with that technology.
- Power Source and Backup – Will you plug a DIY home protection system to your home’s power supply? The system will stay on unless you experience a power failure but if that concerns you, then consider battery power as a blackout backup.
Smart Options in DIY Home Security
In short, today’s market offers a wealth of innovative options in DIY home security systems. Discover how easy it can be to design and install the smart cameras, sensors, alarms and other components that make up the home protection that best suits your family.
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FirstEnergy Home’s review of this product is solely an option. FirstEnergy Home did not receive compensation for the review. FirstEnergy Home, and any FirstEnergy afflatus, are not affiliated with the manufacturer of the product, nor is there any endorsement or sponsorship between the product manufacturer of the product and FirstEnergy Home or any of its affiliates.
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