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Whether you’re renting or you own your own home, security is something you can’t overlook. Advanced Lock & Security understands that not everyone can afford a monthly subscription, or the installation costs for a security system, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with one. When you’re on a budget, a DIY home security system isn’t a bad way to go. To help you find a system that will actually work well for you without any added monthly costs, here are 5 essential elements to look for in a DIY home security system:

Camera. Cameras have become pretty standard and are included with most security systems these days. Many cameras have the ability to record and store information in a cloud, making them invaluable if someone actually does break into your home.

Motion sensors. These are a must. If your alarm is armed and there’s someone walking around your home, you should be notified. Also, if an intruder breaks a window and climbs through without activating that window’s sensor, you’ll need a motion detector to know they’ve breached the exterior of your home. Investing in an alarm that doesn’t offer fundamental intrusion protection isn’t really worth it, which also brings us to our next essential element.

Door and window sensors. As another way of offering fundamental intrusion protection, door and window sensors are essential to any home security system. When it comes to safety, it’s more important to keep a dangerous person from ever entering your home than to just get a good picture of them if they do. This also reminds us that it’s necessary to think beyond just protecting your home when you’re not there, but also when you are. Invest in a system that does both. Door and window sensors are the first line of defense that will not only work to deter an intruder from getting into your home, but also from making it to your bedroom where you’re sleeping.
Loud programmable alarm. Audible alarms are proven to be one of the best ways to scare off intruders. It’s true that many criminals have educated themselves about the basics of how to handle alarms, and we’ll get to that more when we cover the last essential element, but most are still scared off by a blaring siren.

Wireless keypad and touchscreen central hub. These are the last essential elements of a DIY home security system. A good system should have two hubs for controlling your alarm. One can be near a door for easy access when you get home, just remember not to put it right out in the open where a burglar could see it from a window. This one is usually a simple wireless keypad, while the main hub of your security system should be an interactive touchpad. You want to keep this somewhere far away from the wireless keypad in case it is smashed or otherwise broken by a more savvy burglar. We recommend that you keep the touchpad in your room near your bed, as these often have panic buttons and are the most in-depth way of controlling your system.

A system with all five of these elements qualifies as a good DIY security system. If you simply have a camera but no way to deter actual intrusion with a sensor and alarm, then it’s not a very good system. If you have a sensor but no way to actually capture what’s happening in your home, that’s also not very good. All five elements should be present for your system to truly keep you, your family, and your belongings safe. If you have any questions or would like recommendations on the best DIY security systems, just contact Advanced Lock & Security and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Also, if you’re looking for a King of Prussia Locksmith we’re here to help.