Stay Safe: 6 Tips On How To Setup The Best DIY Alarm System

Stay Safe: 6 Tips On How To Setup The Best DIY Alarm System

Mar 9th 2018

From what products to consider, preparing to install, to easy ways to make your home safer, you'll definitely be ready to install the best DIY alarm system.

Are you interested in installing a home security alarm system in your home?

Taking steps to ensure the safety of your home and family is more important than ever.

There is a world of products and services available out there, but is it necessary to spend millions to protect your home and family? The answer is no.

There is a wide variety of alarm systems on the market for every budget.

6 Tips On How To Setup The Best DIY Alarm System

From what products to consider, preparing to install, to easy ways to make your home safer, you'll definitely be ready to install the best DIY alarm system.

1. Understand What DIY Home Security System

This means that you will be installing sensors, setting up a base station, and setting up its connection to either the Internet or a cellular network.

By choosing to go DIY, you will be taking responsibility for how effective your system ultimately performs.

2. Consider Different Products

Never before has there been a greater number of DIY alarm products available, making it possible to adequately protect your home without deflating your budget.

Here is a list of some of the types of products you'll want to consider when putting together your DIY alarm system.

When it comes to home security, technology is your friend.

3. Low-tech Security Considerations

When it comes to making your home as safe as possible, high-tech products are only part of the equation. Don't underestimate the importance of making sure the hardware on your doors and windows is up-to-date.

  • Update exterior locks on both doors and windows. Make sure to use deadbolts as the primary locks on exterior doors, and check to ensure that the throw bolt extends deep into the frame.
  • Update interior locks to add an additional layer of security. Adding surface-mounted interlocking deadbolts or a chain can help as well.
  • Install solid-core exterior doors made of wood or steel. And make sure the door isn't weaker than the lock you've placed on it. Don't worry, small windows at the top of solid-core doors won't diminish the door's strength.
  • Install obstructions such as trees, shrubbery, or flowerbeds beneath windows.
  • Lock away valuables and important documents in a fire-proof safe featuring either a combination dial or electronic keypad.
  • Get a dog. Man's best friend is often the best alarm system you could ask for. Dog's often sense intruders long before electronic surveillance can, and nothing puts a scare into potential burglars like the growl or bark of a guard dog.

4. Selecting Your DIY Security System

If you have the cash available, you can save on monthly fees and lengthy contracts by paying for your system upfront.

Important questions to ask potential alarm companies:

  • How long does it take the control panel to contact the monitoring center?
  • How long does it take the monitoring center to contact police?
  • How long does it take police to respond to a home security alarm?

98% of alarm reports are false alarms, and because police departments have limited resources to commit to alarm responses, response time in your neighborhood could vary dramatically.

Find out if the system you purchase comes with a money back guarantee. That way if you aren't happy with the way it performs, you can send it back and find a better one.

Check into the need for a permit. Some police departments require a permit or charge fines to offset the costs associated with false alarms.

5. Installation

Installing your DIY home alarm system doesn't have to be overly complicated or expensive.

There are a few questions you need to ask yourself before beginning the installation process:

  • How many sensors do I need?
  • Where do I put the sensors?
  • How do I install DIY home security sensors?

Be sure to discuss the experience of installing a DIY security system with friends you trust. This can save you time and frustration.

Minimal tools should be needed for installation. Typically only basic items like screwdrivers, a hammer, a power drill, and a ladder would be required to perform installation on your DIY system. Take note of everything you'll need before you getter started.

Determine the best location for the keypad and sensors. You want to pick the locations where those devices will be most effective. Perhaps you want the keypad near the entry or next to a door. Sensors should be placed in a number of locations, both inside and outside of the house.

If you don't have space or don't want holes in your walls, consider selecting a wireless system. Also, take into consideration the type of wiring you have inside your home and what kind of wiring the system will require. This is the kind of detail a security company would be skilled at but you will have to figure out for yourself.

Make sure your passcode is easy enough to remember, but not so simple that an intruder could easily figure it out. Avoid using something as obvious as "1234".

Most DIY security systems can be installed in a day and with very little clean-up required.

6. Controller Pad

The controller pad that comes with modern security systems makes activating and monitoring your system a breeze. Some systems additionally feature smartphone and iPad apps allowing you to access your system remotely. This means you're never out of touch with whatever is happening at your home.

Simply download the app, login with your user ID and password, and you're in business!

Is A DIY Home Alarm System Right For You?

DIY systems can be a smart choice for those on a tight budget. With minimal research and a little effort, you can secure your home and save money.

Do you have a smartphone and a reliable data plan that would enable you to monitor your home yourself, or would you prefer a certified 24/7 monitoring service keeping a watchful eye on things?

Check out more of the online resources available to help you find the right devices for your home.