Electronic home security is one of those things a homeowner can easily spend more on than originally intended. Once you add devices and services, the price tag really starts to climb. At the heart of it all is the home security starter kit. If you can understand what a starter kit offers, as compared to what you eventually hope to achieve with your security system, you can get a better idea of what your budget can truly support.
For the record, starter kits are not exclusive to the DIY environment. Take Vivint Home Security. As one of the nation’s leading security providers, Vivint is very conscious of the needs of budget-minded customers. They offer an affordable, no-contract option in HomeProtect. The HomeProtect package comes in both starter and advanced configurations.
Personally, I understand the appeal of professionally installed and monitored home security. But I also know that there are homeowners who prefer DIY home security and automation. There is no shortage of starter kits capable of meeting their needs.
Enough to Get You Started
The definition of a starter kit is in the name. You get enough to get you started with basic home security. A typical DIY kit comes with the following:
- A front door sensor
- A couple of sensors for first-floor windows
- A security camera or doorbell camera
- A central control panel (or hub)
The indoor window sensors protect mainly against burglary. They are contact sensors by design. As long as windows and doors remained closed, the two components of a contact sensor remain in contact. The minute contact is broken, an alarm is generated.
As for the video camera or doorbell camera, the idea is to surveil the front door with video. Why the front door? Because it remains one of the most common entry points for burglary and home invasion. If you could afford only one camera in your system, installing it to provide a clear view of the front door would be the best option.
The Central Control Panel
Most central control panels are flat, tablet-like devices that can be mounted on a wall or set on a table or counter with a stand. A control panel is used to arm and disarm the system, check video feeds, and make other adjustments. However, do not forget the mobile app.
While there may be exceptions to the rule, almost all DIY and home automation systems come with companion mobile apps. A mobile app gives you access to your home security system no matter where you are. All you need is your phone and an internet connection.
Adding Pieces to a System
A starter kit lets you get your foot in the door, so to speak. If it is all you can afford for now, a starter kit represents a good way to get going with home security without spending a small fortune. You can always add devices later on.
For many homeowners, the first additions will be more cameras. Video cameras have become a mainstay of modern home security. Homeowners also seem to have an affinity for smart speakers. A complete system would also include smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a smart lock on the front door, and automated lighting.
DIY starter kits play a vital role in the home security ecosystem. They offer the opportunity to get started even on a limited budget. But for so many homeowners, a starter kit is just the beginning. More devices are added until a system becomes exactly what a homeowner wants it to be.
