DIY Home Security System Guide: Components, Brands, and Installation

Home security is a critical consideration for any homeowner. A home security system provides peace of mind by providing an extra layer of protection against burglaries, intruders, and other security threats. By having a home security system, you can deter criminals, protect your property and assets, and most importantly, ensure the safety of your family.

There are several pros and cons of installing a home security system. On the one hand, a home security system can help you detect potential security threats, notify you and the authorities of any intrusions, and provide evidence for insurance claims. It can also help you remotely monitor your home through cameras and sensors, giving you real-time information about what's happening in your house. Additionally, a home security system can increase the value of your home and may even lower your insurance premiums.

On the other hand, a home security system can be expensive to install and maintain, and false alarms can be a nuisance. Moreover, some homeowners may feel that the presence of a security system could give them a false sense of security, leading them to overlook basic security measures, such as locking doors and windows. In this guide, we will explore the popular components of a home security system and the different options and brands available to help you make an informed decision about securing your home.

Step 1: Choose a Control Panel

The brain of your home security system is the control panel. It serves as the communication center for all the other security system parts. You may activate and disarm your system, as well as get alerts and notifications, using the control panel. SimpliSafe, ADT, and Honeywell are a few of the well-known control panel manufacturers. Think about your home's size, the amount of zones you want, and the degree of remote control you want when selecting a control panel. You should also take each option's cost and simplicity of installation into account.

1. Honeywell offers several control panel options, including the LYNX Touch, which is a touchscreen control panel that allows you to control your security system from your smartphone or tablet. The LYNX Touch is compatible with Honeywell's Total Connect service, which lets you control your security system from anywhere, at any time. Honeywell also offers the Vista 20P control panel, which is a wired system that can be expanded to support up to 48 zones. The Vista 20P is compatible with Honeywell's Total Connect service.
2. ADT offers the ADT Command control panel, which is a touchscreen control panel that allows you to control your security system from your smartphone or tablet. The ADT Command is compatible with ADT's Pulse service, which lets you control your security system from anywhere, at any time. ADT also offers the ADT Safewatch Pro 3000 control panel, which is a wired system that can be expanded to support up to 32 zones.
3. SimpliSafe offers the SimpliSafe Home Security System, which comes with a base station that serves as the control panel. The base station has a built-in siren and backup battery, and it communicates with SimpliSafe's sensors and cameras. The SimpliSafe control panel is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, which allows you to control your security system with voice commands.

Step 2: Choose Sensors

Sensors are essential components of your home security system. They detect motion, open doors and windows, and detect smoke and carbon monoxide. Some popular sensors include door and window sensors, motion sensors, glass break sensors, and smoke detectors. Here are some popular sensor options and the brands that offer them:

1. Door and window sensors: These sensors detect when a door or window is opened or closed. They are available in wired and wireless options. Popular brands include Ring, Nest, and SimpliSafe. Ring offers the Contact Sensor, which is a wireless sensor that alerts you when a door or window is opened. Nest offers the Nest Detect, which is a battery-powered sensor that can detect motion and open/close activity. SimpliSafe offers the Entry Sensor, which is a wireless sensor that can detect when doors and windows are opened or closed.
2. Motion sensors: These sensors detect movement within a specific area. They are available in wired and wireless options. Popular brands include Arlo, Ring, and Nest. Arlo offers the Motion Sensor, which is a wireless sensor that detects motion up to 23 feet away. Ring offers the Motion Detector, which is a wireless sensor that can detect motion up to 30 feet away. Nest offers the Nest Cam, which is a security camera that can detect motion and send alerts to your phone.
3. Glass break sensors: These sensors detect when glass is broken, such as when a window is shattered. They are available in wired and wireless options. Popular brands include SimpliSafe, Honeywell, and ADT. SimpliSafe offers the Glassbreak Sensor, which is a wireless sensor that can detect the sound of glass breaking. Honeywell offers the 5853 Wireless Glassbreak Detector, which can detect the sound of breaking glass up to 25 feet away. ADT offers the Glass Break Sensor, which can detect the sound of glass breaking and send an alert to the control panel.
4. Smoke detectors: These sensors detect smoke and can alert you to potential fires. They are available in wired and wireless options. Popular brands include Nest, Ring, and First Alert. Nest offers the Nest Protect, which is a wired or battery-powered smoke and carbon monoxide detector. Ring offers the Ring Alarm Smoke and CO Listener, which can be placed near existing smoke and CO detectors to send alerts to your phone. First Alert offers the Onelink Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector, which can connect to your home Wi-Fi and send alerts to your phone.

Think about your home's size, the number of zones you need to monitor, and the amount of sensitivity you want when selecting sensors. You should also take each option's cost and simplicity of installation into account.

Step 3: Choose Cameras

Cameras are an important component of a home security system as they provide video surveillance of your property. They can be used to monitor both the inside and outside of your home. There are various types of cameras to choose from, including indoor, outdoor, wired, and wireless cameras.

Indoor cameras are ideal for monitoring the inside of your home, such as your living room or nursery. Outdoor cameras are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide a clear view of the area outside your home. Wired cameras are connected to your home's electrical system and are more reliable, while wireless cameras rely on a Wi-Fi connection and are easier to install.

When choosing a camera, consider the resolution and field of view. The resolution refers to the quality of the video and the field of view refers to the area that the camera can capture. Some popular camera brands include Ring, Nest, and Arlo. Ring offers indoor and outdoor cameras with features such as motion detection and two-way talk. Nest offers a range of indoor and outdoor cameras with advanced features such as facial recognition and 24/7 live streaming. Arlo offers wireless indoor and outdoor cameras with features such as night vision and cloud storage. It's important to consider the security policies of the companies that offer cameras. Some companies, such as Ring and Nest, have faced criticism for their privacy policies and the potential for unauthorized access to video recordings. Make sure to read the terms and conditions and understand how the company will use and protect your data.

Step 4: Choose a Monitoring Service

A monitoring service provides 24/7 monitoring of your home and can alert you and the authorities in the event of an emergency. There are many popular monitoring services available, and they all differ in the features and services they offer. Here are some of the most commonly chosen brands and what they offer:

1. ADT - ADT is one of the oldest and most well-known home security companies, offering 24/7 monitoring, professional installation, and a range of security equipment. They offer a variety of packages to suit different needs and budgets, including video surveillance and home automation features. However, their pricing can be higher than some of their competitors.
2. Vivint - Vivint is a popular option for those looking for a more comprehensive home security system with home automation features. They offer professional installation and 24/7 monitoring, as well as a variety of equipment options including cameras, doorbell cameras, and smart locks. Vivint's pricing is also generally higher than some of their competitors.
3. Brinks - Brinks offers professional installation and 24/7 monitoring services, as well as a range of equipment options including sensors, cameras, and door locks. They offer a mobile app for remote monitoring and control of your system. Brinks is known for their affordable pricing plans, making them a great option for those on a budget.

Other popular monitoring services include SimpliSafe, Ring, and Nest. SimpliSafe offers professional monitoring and a range of equipment options, including indoor and outdoor cameras, motion sensors, and door and window sensors. Ring and Nest offer affordable monitoring plans and easy DIY installation, making them great options for those who prefer to install their own equipment. When choosing a monitoring service, consider the pricing, contract length, and level of support offered. Additionally, be sure to read and understand the company's privacy policies and data handling practices, especially when it comes to video recordings and access to your home security system.

Step 5: Choose Smart Home Integration

Smart home integration is becoming increasingly popular, allowing you to control your home security system with your voice or through a mobile app. There are several popular smart home integration brands available, each offering unique features and benefits.

Amazon Alexa is one of the most widely used smart home integrations, offering voice control over your home security system as well as a wide range of other smart devices in your home. Google Assistant is another popular option, offering voice control and integration with a variety of smart devices, including your home security system. Apple HomeKit is also gaining in popularity and is a good choice if you already use other Apple products, as it offers seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem.

When considering smart home integration, it's important to choose a system that is compatible with your existing devices and fits your needs. Some security system brands, like Ring and SimpliSafe, offer their own smart home integrations, while others may be compatible with multiple platforms. It's important to research the options and choose a system that will work well for you. It's also important to consider the security of your smart home integration. While convenient, these systems can be vulnerable to hacking and may pose a risk to your privacy. Be sure to choose a reputable brand and take steps to secure your network and devices to prevent unauthorized access to your system.

Step 6: Install and Maintain Your System

Congratulations! You've chosen all the components and services you need for your home security system. The next step is to install and maintain your system to ensure that it works properly. If you're installing your system yourself, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and refer to our DIY - Home Security System Installation Guide: 12 Steps to Protect Your Home for additional guidance.

It's important to regularly test your system to ensure that all components are functioning properly, and to replace any batteries as needed. Maintenance is crucial to the longevity and effectiveness of your system, so be sure to keep up with any necessary repairs or upgrades. Remember, your home security system is only as good as its maintenance, so be sure to take the time to keep it in top condition.

Investing in a home security system is one of the best ways to protect your home and family. With the right components and monitoring service, you can create a comprehensive security system that provides peace of mind and ensures the safety of your loved ones. In this guide, we have covered the most popular components of a home security system, including control panels, sensors, cameras, monitoring services, and smart home integration. We have also highlighted the top brands in each category, along with their pros and cons.

When selecting your components, it's important to consider your unique needs and preferences. Take the time to research different options and brands to find the perfect fit for your home. Whether you choose a DIY system or opt for professional installation, make sure to test and maintain your system regularly to ensure it's functioning correctly.

Remember that a home security system is only one part of a comprehensive safety plan. Other precautions, such as installing strong locks, keeping valuables out of sight, and being aware of your surroundings, are also important. By taking a holistic approach to home security, you can create a safer environment for yourself and your family.

In conclusion, we hope that this guide has provided you with valuable insights and information to help you choose the right components for your home security system. Don't hesitate to seek professional assistance if you need it, and always prioritize the safety and security of your home and loved ones.