Expert: Dave Neuweiler - 3/8/2002

Question
what affordable home security systems do you recommend? wireless? networks? should i pay to have it installed? thanks.

Answer
Hello, Steph, and thanks for your question. Your question is a bit broad, so I'll answer in broad statements. Feel free to ask additional questions later so we can "drill down" to the system and options that are a match for your needs.

First, affordability. How's approximately $200 for a basic system, installed, and about $30 per month for monitoring? That's pretty much the going rate from the national companies (Brinks, ADT, etc.). They provide a low-cost installation up front, and lock you into a 3 year (or more) commitment for monitoring. That's how they turn a profit on your sale. And it's not a bad deal.

Second, what kind of system... you mentioned networks, but that's not a common option. I'm not sure whether you mean a hard-wired system, or one that is monitored over the Internet. The most common question is whether wireless or hard-wire is better, so I'll start there.

In terms of performance, there's little difference between the two. The major difference is cost, and even that is a trade-off. On the one hand, wireless equipment is more expensive; on the other hand, there's less labor involved. If there's no cost differential, I'd go with a wired system, though, because you'll never have to worry about changing batteries in the tiny transmitters that would be located at doors and windows. Wireless is best used in unique situations, where it's difficult or very expensive to run a wire (example -- the Statue of Liberty, which is protected by a wireless fire alarm system).

Finally, should you install it yourself... that depends on your skill and confidence in mounting devices, connecting and concealing wiring, etc. If you're an electrician or handyperson, then maybe. If you're a "klutz" with a screwdriver, then no. If you want to try to do an install yourself, tell me a little bit what things you're comfortable with doing, and we'll take it from there.

Hope this helps!

Dave