Moving soon?
Use our checklist.
Whether you need to secure internet or find a moving company, our countdown checklist will get you organized and ready to move.
How to Find the Best DIY Home Security System for You
Moving soon? Get organized with our free moving checklist.
A lot goes into finding the best DIY home security system for your home. Selecting the right system can help ensure that your home is well protected. Whether you have pets, a large home, or a tight budget, there is a DIY home security system out there for you. The trick is narrowing them down. That’s where we come in. We have gathered all the information you need when searching for the best DIY home security system for you, so take a look and start securing your home.
Choosing the Best DIY Home Security System Based on Your Needs
Which features do you need most?
Much like cars, DIY home security systems can be purchased with customizable features that are often sold as bundles or packages. Depending on your needs, you may want a system that includes something as elaborate as an outdoor motion detector or such security staples as door and window panels. These panels are fitted to your doors and windows and use magnets or vibrations to detect someone opening your door, climbing through your window, or picking your lock. Figuring out whether you need more window sensors for your ground floor, indoor or outdoor cameras, or an external keypad will help narrow down your search.
Does weather threaten your home?
If your home is exposed to hurricane or tornado seasons, heavy rain, wind, or drought, it’s a good idea to look for a DIY home security system that can detect smoke, water, and broken glass. This additional level of protection provides the most security for homes threatened by extreme weather, and adds a layer of security for the events your home insurance may not cover.
Your wifi connection and power sources could also be compromised if you live in an area prone to extreme weather conditions. The best DIY home security system for you will have both wifi and cable connectivity, and a backup battery in case you lose power.
Do you have a lot of visitors or deliveries?
Will you need to let the dog walker in or do you regularly rent out your home? If so, you may want to consider a DIY home security system that offers additional video features such as video doorbells along with an external keypad or a key fob.
A key fob can be carried on your keychain (like the clicker for your car) or downloaded as an app on your smartphone. It works as a remote control for your alarm system, allowing you to arm, disarm, and alert your smart home security system from afar. It is a handy tool for everyday use and gives you the freedom to easily and securely let people into your home when you’re not there. That way, the new mattress you ordered can wait in the safety of your home, and you don’t have to stay home waiting for it.
Which smart systems do you already have?
If your home is already connected to the internet of things, convenience might be more of a priority for you. In which case, the best DIY home security system for your home would need to be compatible with any other smart systems (Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, etc.) you already have set up. You might also benefit from other smart features in addition to home security, such as a remote thermostat and lighting controls.
Choosing the Best DIY Home Security System for Your Household
What size is your home?
Whether you live in a condo or a co-op, a townhouse or a condo, home security is important. The size and type of your home plays a role in finding the best DIY home security system for you. If you have a larger home with many windows and entrances, be sure to select a smart security system that offers plenty of door and window sensors to cover each entry point. Depending on your square footage, you may need a sensor that detects motion at a broader or narrower range. A 2,000 square-foot townhouse, for example, will need a sensor that can reach further than a 1,500-square-foot apartment will.
Do you have any pets?
If you do, you might be wondering how to choose the best pet-friendly DIY home security system. There are a few systems specifically designed with pets in mind. They offer weight settings so that if a sensor is triggered by your 5-pound cat or 60-pound golden retriever, it won’t set off the alarm.
If you decide not to go for one of these specialty systems, or you adopt a pet after purchasing your security system, you can make many DIY home security sensors pet-friendly by placing them above your pet’s range of motion. Is your cat a climber? Keep that in mind when placing your sensors and be sure to mount them high enough to avoid your adventurous feline.
Choosing the Best DIY Home Security System for Your Budget
Would you prefer to shop kits or à la carte?
When choosing your DIY home security system, it’s important to remember your budget. If you’re more comfortable starting with the basics and building a comprehensive security system over time, you can. Many smart security systems offer à la carte options so you can buy the features that you need most first. If you have a more flexible budget for upfront costs, you can select different kits or packages depending on the features that you want and your household security needs.
Are you comfortable with monthly fees and contracts?
Some features, such as professional monitoring, cost more and/or require you to sign a contract. Keep this in mind when searching for the best DIY home security system for your budget. The additional monthly costs can add up and contracts can be hard to get out of, so be sure to read the fine print before signing anything.
Will you upgrade later?
Don’t want the whole kit and caboodle from day one, but think that an upgrade could be in your future? Make sure that the DIY home security system you choose allows upgrades and offers the more advanced features that interest you. This way, you can stick with the same provider and just add on rather than purchasing a whole new system for one or two extra features.
Choosing the Best DIY Home Security System for Your Lifestyle
Do you want round-the-clock monitoring?
With unmonitored systems, you will be notified if any sensors or alarms are tripped but will have to make the emergency call yourself. With a professionally monitored system, however, the monitoring station will alert you and the authorities to any unusual activity at your home. This can come in handy if you are away for a few days or simply want the added comfort of knowing you can be seamlessly connected to emergency services if need be.
Do you travel often?
If you have a busy schedule and travel often, you might want to add on flood and fire sensors. These detect any water or smoke in specific areas of your home, and can even notify you of any leaks while you’re away. Burst pipe? No problem! You’ll be notified of the leak, giving you a chance to deal with it before you get home.
Do you work from home?
If you spend most of your time in your home as a stay-at-home parent, remote worker, or retiree, you may need different things from your DIY home security system. You might want the added convenience of a smart system that can connect to different features of your home. Being able to change the thermostat, turn off the iron, or turn a light on from your smartphone can come in handy.
Keep these in mind when shopping for a DIY home security system:
- Make sure you have a reliable internet connection.
- Be sure to buy the essentials first before adding any additional features.
- Customer service is important. Make sure that your DIY home security system provides quality help and technical support should you need it.
There’s plenty to consider when deciding on the best DIY home security system for you. Now that you know what to look for and what you need most, you can find a system that keeps your household safe and comfortable.
Moving soon? Get organized with our free moving checklist.
Internet and TV tips
Switching providers and don’t know where to start? We can help.
