Can I Do It Myself?

So, you've come to the conclusion that your house needs more security than simple deadbolts and window locks afford. You know that you want a home security system, but are wondering if your only option is to pay a company for a fully comprehensive plan, including products, installation, monitoring service, etc. Or, is there a way you can do at least some of it yourself? Thankfully, there is.

Many companies now cater to the do-it-yourself crowd; and let's face it, that crowd is increasing daily! There are now more resources available to the "do-it-yourselfers" than ever before. Still, home security is more important than building your own picnic table. So, the next question is:

Should I Do It Myself?

Unless you are looking at installing an incredibly complicated, expensive system that most people neither want nor need, the answer is Yes! After all, why should you throw away your hard earned time and money when purchasing a home security system? Whether installing a hardwired or wireless security system, doing it yourself is easy and extremely cost effective. And self-installation is much easier than you may think. Don't be intimidated by the technology and options. All it takes is planning, installing, and purchasing. Let's take a look at those three steps:

1. Planning

First, draw a map of the area you plan to secure, and include all the various components (windows, doors, etc.) you want to cover. The next step can be fun or frightening depending on your perspective. Step in to the mind of a potential thief. Walk around your house, look at all of the various places someone could conceivably enter your home. Determine how easy or difficult that entry would be. Make a list of all of the areas you want to secure and the different parts of that area (bay windows, basement doors, etc.)

Once you've determined the most likely and easiest areas for a potential intruder, you need to decide what you want your system to do. Systems can sound alarms, notify you of an alarm by calling private telephone numbers, and much more. Some systems will do all of these things. If you want police dispatched in the event of an alarm, then you need to add a 24 hour monitoring service. Monitoring can be purchased from many companies. Usually the charge is around $30 per month, but can be found as low as $9.00 per month.

2. Installation

Tools required for installation are minimal. A screwdriver, measuring tape, and wire strippers are usually all that is needed. I'm going to offer you some general guidelines on how to proceed with installation. However, these are just guidelines. You should be sure to ask the company you purchase from for more specific instructions and follow those. That being said, here they are:

For Hardwired Systems:

• Install battery backup
• Install accessories (contact sensors, motion detectors, etc.)
• Measure and lay out wire
• Connect wire to sensors
• Configure circuit board (this is much easier than it sounds)
• Program control panel (codes and instructions will be in installation manual)
• Mount control panel on the wall
• Test sensors

For Wireless Systems:

• Install battery backup
• Program control panel and sensors
• Connect hardwire, power, phone, and siren contacts
• Program any alternative device
• Mount to the wall
• Test Sensors

For a normal system, it really is that easy.

3. Purchasing

Ok. Now you've decided what areas of your house need securing, and hopefully, you are comfortable with the idea of installing your own system. Now, it's time to purchase your system. The rule for buying a home security system is the same as the rule for purchasing any other product: Shop around! Still, it's always helpful if you have guidelines when doing this. So, here is what to look for:

• The best price (this probably goes without saying)
• Excellent customer service: Customer service representatives are the front line of any company. You know this and so does the company. If the person you speak with is unhelpful or discourteous, it's probably a sign that you should look elsewhere.
• Free technical support: If you need help with the product you purchased from a company, they should offer that service at no extra cost. After all, you already bought the item.
• Great customer satisfaction reviews: This is always a good indication of a company's worth. The people writing these reviews have firsthand experience with the company, and usually don't have a particular bone to pick. They either want others to know how wonderful a particular company is, or they want to warn you of possible pitfalls. It's definitely worth taking the time to search for company reviews before you buy.