Although a professional security system might be out of reach for you because of the costs involved, the importance of protecting your home certainly makes it worth your while to look into the more cost effective option of DIY home security. If the task of building your own home security system sounds daunting, don’t let that discourage you. Building and monitoring a DIY security system is actually fairly simple. Here are five ways you can use the most up-to-date tech in DIY home security to successfully monitor your home on your own and avoid the monthly bills involved with subscribing to a home security service.
1. Check out DIY security kits
Arguably one of the most time consuming tasks involved in the process of building your own DIY security system is finding all of the necessary cameras, sensors, and cables to support your monitoring system. Fortunately, some security pros have realized that this is a pain point for home owners looking to take the DIY approach to home security, and have created kits that come complete with all of the monitoring necessities. If you’re not quite sure where to start looking for the right kit to meet your needs, this guide could be helpful. It provides a list of some of the most popular and effective DIY home security kits and explains what home security goals they are intended to meet.
2. Look into doorbell security
If you’re not quite ready for a full camera system, but would like to know who’s approaching your home while you’re gone, a doorbell security system could be ideal. Doorbell security cams are relatively simple to install and should work with most homes that have an existing doorbell in place. Once you’ve installed a doorbell security system, you can use it to answer the door even when you’re not home using the built in camera and two-way voice features. A popular choice for doorbell security cams is the Ring doorbell. If a security doorbell sounds like it might fit your needs, I recommend checking out this particular brand. You can find a video review here that explains how the device is installed and how it works.
3. Consider motion lighting
Sometimes, a sudden light turning on can be enough to deter potential intruders from your home. This is why some homeowners choose to install motion lighting around their homes for security purposes. You could start out slow with a light by your garage or your front door, then add a few lights to your backyard or along your driveway if you find that having motion lights gives you increased peace of mind. Home Depot offers up an excellent buyer’s guide to outdoor lighting if you’d like to familiarize yourself with the components you might need before you hit the store.
4. Take advantage of remote monitoring
Most DIY security camera systems provide user access through apps and online portals. Take advantage of the monitoring options your DIY security device has to offer. Call the company and discuss your options for remote monitoring on the go. If you’re confused by a certain feature or are having issues connecting the device to your phone, don’t hesitate to call in or engage with a customer service rep on social to get the problem solved. The only way you’ll get the full benefit of your DIY security system is if you make sure to keep up on monitoring your home using the apps and tools available while you’re away.
5. Use automated light timers
If you’re planning on heading out of town for a vacation or even if you simply work late nights, setting up an automated timed lighting system could be beneficial. This system would turn lights on and off at set points throughout the day and night to help trick potential intruders into thinking someone is home without racking up your electricity bill by leaving the lights on all day while you’re gone. You can check out a guide to automated light timers here. Hopefully these tips will help you set up an affordable and effective home security system on your own! As your needs and interests change in home security, it’s likely that you’ll need to change your approach, but taking the DIY route is perfect for those of you who need only basic security for your homes at the moment. If you have any questions or perhaps a tip you’d like to share with other readers, we’re all ears! Please comment below. Featured photo credit: iStock via istockphoto.com
