Save Money on Home Security Systems

The advancements that have been made in home security technology in the past couple of decades have revolutionized how we protect our homes. However, with all these new technologies comes a hefty price tag. Certain home security packages can be very expensive to install. Once they have been installed, you also may have to pay monthly fees for monitoring services and other features. Some homeowners are too intimidated by the financial investment to get a home security system, but there are many ways to make a great security system affordable.

Focus on the Essentials

There are many additional features and gadgets that can be included in most modern home security packages. While these options may be fun to have, most of them are not essential to properly securing your home. To help save money on a home security system, select only the basics like door and window alarms, cameras, and a few motion sensors. The same applies to monitoring services. Most home security companies offer different monitoring and software features that you must pay for every month. The only features that are necessary are monitoring the sensors and alerting law enforcement and the homeowners when these sensors are tripped.

Some homeowners even choose to self-monitor their systems to avoid the monthly monitoring fee altogether. Self-monitoring obviously requires more work and attention on the part of the homeowner, but it can save you a lot of money. Many modern systems are so advanced and user-friendly that self-monitoring is much easier and more convenient than it ever was.

Choose a Wireless Security System

When you compare a wireless home security system with one that is hard-wired, the financial benefits initially seem skewed towards hard-wired systems. Since wireless technologies are newer and more in demand than hard-wired systems, they are typically more expensive than the older technology of hard-wired systems. However, hard-wired systems need to be installed professionally. Not only are the installation costs high, but the installation process will create permanent alterations to your home through the walls, doors, windows, and wiring. In addition, if you move, taking the system with you won’t be a very viable option. You will most likely have to leave this expensive system behind and get a new one for your new home.

The equipment for wireless systems does typically cost more, but most systems can easily be installed without the help of a professional, eliminating the steep installation fee. In addition, if you need to move, you can uninstall the system just as easily as you installed it and use it in your new home.

Only Cover the First Floor Entry Points

Home invaders typically don’t view the second floor as a reasonable entry point. Getting in through the second-floor windows usually involves acquiring and using a noisy ladder to even check if the windows are unlocked. In addition, entering through the second floor is obvious as opposed to entering on the first floor where they can be more discreet and hidden. Burglars want easy and quick jobs in low-risk homes - not long and complicated attempts at homes that already have security systems protecting the first floor.

To save some money on extra sensors, only cover the first-floor entry points. If you still have concerns over the second floor’s security, cut any branches from nearby trees that may reach second-floor windows, keep ladders secured and out of sight, and always keep your windows locked.

Compare Prices

Security companies such as Blink or ADT offer basic packages that are usually offered at their lowest prices among all of their other security packages. However, every company uses different equipment and pricing models. Search online for the highest-rated home security companies and compare their most basic systems. Keep in mind that just because one company has the lowest price doesn’t mean it has the best value. Some companies offer generous basic packages at extremely reasonable prices while others simply give bare-bones setups for the same price.

Take Advantage of Discounts and Sales

Some home security companies will offer special discounts on their products and monitoring fees if you fit certain criteria. For example, it’s common for security companies to offer discounts to seniors and veterans. There are also several websites that offer coupon codes for home security systems. It’s even possible for you to get a home insurance discount after the system has been installed, depending on the brand and type of system you select.

There are certain times of the year when home security companies will usually offer sales such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday as well as Amazon Prime Day. If you know when to shop and what to shop for, you can save a lot of money on a fantastic home security system.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.