Home Security Systems Prices: Average Installation Costs
With up to 1.25 million home invasions recorded annually in the U.S alone, it has become necessary for families to install home security systems. Innovations in technology and IoT now give homeowners remote control of these security systems, reducing the reliance on old tactics such as guard dogs.
These innovations have also resulted in home security systems prices becoming more affordable without a proportional decreasing efficiency. While there is no such thing as a full-proof home security system, it is an effective deterrent to burglars and home invaders. The fundamental question is how much does a quality security system cost?
Home Security Systems Prices
The primary aim of a security system is the attached value of peace of mind. This value means that you require technology that alerts law enforcement when there is a break-in and makes it difficult for offenders to gain access to your property.
Many high-tech systems are expensive to install and operate. Fortunately, some varieties are subsidised and can work as DIY projects. Here is a shortlist of the average cost of installing home security systems and where to start.
Pricing and Activation Costs
The first step in security system installation is knowing the cost of equipment. The system you set up will depend on your budget. System equipment vary substantially based on specs. Cameras, for instance, increase in price depending on frame rates, viewing angles, and overall functionality.
On average, home security systems equipment can range anything between $300-600 installation in installation and activation costs alone. These upfront costs include all your alarm equipment and facilitation costs. The security contract ranges from 12 to 36 months, depending on your service provider.
Home Security System Prices and Monthly Costs
Note that the upfront cost is not a one-off fee. There are monthly costs that cater to monitoring, maintenance, and operational costs. For a decent security system, you may have to part with between $8-$50 depending on the equipment package, extra features, and brand reputation. To put this in perspective, the more equipment you install, the higher the monthly fees.
Essentially, if you have a dozen sensors and smart-access-you will pay more. The more sophisticated the network, the more cumbersome it is to operate. The best way to cut your initial costs is to concentrate on critical equipment rather than swing for the fence.
Home security systems build capacity from efficiency and operational capacity. This capacity facilitates better functioning and a more effective network.
Wireless versus Wired Alarm Systems Costs
Budgetary constraints are the first consideration when choosing an excellent system. Wired and wireless systems each have their perks and pitfalls. Wired systems, for example, are difficult to install. It is also a challenge to hide connecting wires. If you decide to move, a wired system is hard to carry.
The one key benefit is that you don’t have to worry about your system getting hacked.
A concern with wireless home security systems is that they operate by alarm monitoring systems. The issue is that security footage can be accessed and altered without being near the premises.
Aside from this, wireless systems are flexible, easy to access, and you don’t have to worry about wires all over your property.
In terms of cost, the margins differ slightly. Systems prices for wired equipment range from $800 to $1600. Wireless between $200 and $2000.
Home security systems reviews incline towards wireless systems because they are easier to install and integrate into any system.
Installation Costs
Equipment costs are the biggest concern when it comes to security systems. After purchasing this equipment, you will spend between $0 to $200 depending on the manufacturing company you employ. $0 is on here because some companies don’t charge installation fees, others charge a small fee, and others are expensive.
There are plenty of considerations when choosing the right home security network, so you’ll have to do a ton of research to find one that fits your purpose.
What to look for
The trick to finding a suitable home security system is establishing value for money. A low-cost system may not limit your capabilities, while an expensive one does not guarantee efficiency. To ensure you make the right decision, here are some fundamental extras that you should look for before you decide.
- Smash protection: Look for a reinforced system not easily destroyed by burglars.
- Remote monitoring: A system that alerts you of a break-in remotely or flags unusual activity is a plus.
- Panic Button: Home security is more than just alerting you when there is a burglary attempt-it should also have a panic button to notify law enforcement of the same.
- Round-the-clock recording: Most home invaders get away with it because there is no backup footage of the event. A 24-hour recording system can help identify a perpetrator. It also has a timestamp that shows the exact moment the break-in happened.
Bottom Line
A home security system is the only sure way to discourage burglary and protect your family from harm. Although it may be expensive to set up, it is worth every penny.
