So you’ve decided to install a security system in your home - great! Now you get to decide whether you want a DIY home security installation or a professional installation. Not sure where to start? Well, it’s your lucky day! We’ve compiled a list of pro’s and con’s for both options so you can see which method best suits you.
Professional Installation
The best part of professional installations is that it’s super easy and very little work for you. Expert installers have also been trained to set up these systems, as well as provide sound advice and make suggestions, so you’re reassured with their background and experience in the field. However, knowledge is power and this power is not cheap. The big downfall that comes with professional installments is the cost of everything. The numbers begin to add up when you’ve got to consider the home security system itself, along with installation fees and/or activation fees.
PROS
- Little to no work for the customer (you) - We live in a fast-paced world where everything is just go, go, go! So it’s totally understandable when we would rather spend a little extra cash to have a professional come into our home to install a security system rather than take the extra time to learn and install it ourselves.
- Professional expertise - With a DIY home security installation, there’s a higher chance you’ll miss something, especially if it’s your first time. In addition, there’s extra time and effort that you’ve got to put in, where there wouldn’t be from a professional installment.
CONS
- Fees - Technicians have to get paid too, which means installation fees may occur. However, don’t get too overwhelmed as providers often have deals and discounts in regards to these fees.
- Time Sensitive - With a professional installer, you can’t install a home security system whenever inspiration strikes. Most installers require you to make an appointment in advance, and you’ll definitely have to be home when that happens.
DIY Installations
DIY home security systems definitely have its perks - they’re cheaper and are on your time. Even better, most kits involve minimal work with simple and easy steps. Self-install alarm systems are wireless, so you don’t have to worry about having the proper tools. The major drawback that comes from a DIY installation is that you may not know the best way to set up your security system, and therefore, run the risk of an incorrect installation.
PROS
- Save money on installation fees - If you looked up DIY in the thesaurus, its synonym would be cost-effective. By installing the security system yourself, you’re avoiding pricey installation and activation fees that you would have to otherwise fork out.
- Your time - Instead of having to work with a technician’s schedule, you can install whenever you’d like! Yes, this even means at 2 am if you’re really feeling up to it.
- Do it YOUR way - Installing a DIY home security kit means you get to adjust it however you’d like in any kind of environment that works for you.
CONS
- More labor - sure, the DIY home security system kits may be “easy”, but you’ve still got to put the effort into building and setting it up. This includes (but is not limited to) reading the manual, setting up phone calls (if you need to ask a technician a question) and/or listening to pre-recorded directions. Sure, this may not be much of a hassle if everything goes right - but if things go wrong, it can take up more of your time and money.
- No activation guidance - So, you’ve managed to set your system up but don’t know what to do after turning it on? If you had it professionally installed, technicians typically provide a walk-through in showing you how everything works. Unfortunately, you won’t receive much assistance from a trained professional if you choose to go the DIY route.
- No Warranty - You’re less likely to receive a warranty if you install your home security system yourself, which could cause some serious issues down the road and really drain your wallet if things take a turn for the worst.
As you can see, there are lots of pros and cons for both options. Home security installations are totally dependent on each individual and what their lifestyle is like.