Parts of a Home Security System and the Cost to Install Them
This article provides a brief explanation of the key components of home security systems, including their installation costs. Components range from basic doorbell cameras to 24/7 professional monitoring services.
Your home is your castle, but keeping your castle secure can be challenging. Criminals still pick locks, but they're increasingly using more sophisticated methods to take your possessions. Therefore, home security system developers must constantly innovate to keep residences safe. Fortunately, the good guys have come up with a range of ways to protect our homes and belongings. Let’s look at the key components and their likely installation costs based on your attitude about home security.
Doorbell Camera
A doorbell camera is an excellent entry point to home security. Via your smartphone, it can show you who’s at your doorstep, whether you’re in your home or somewhere else. The average cost of installing one can range from $200 to $400 (CAD 274 to CAD 548), depending on the brand and features you choose.
Security Alarm
While a doorbell camera can tell you who's at the door, a security alarm can warn you of an intruder. The number of secured entry points will determine the overall cost, which typically ranges from $300 to $840 (CAD 411 to CAD 1150). This pays for the equipment, installation and activation fees.
Smart Lock
Smart locks let you control access to your home remotely with a key fob or your smartphone. It's recommended you get a professional locksmith to install them. Costs range from $90 to $360 (CAD 123 to CAD 493), while installation fees average $200 to $460 (CAD 274 to CAD 630) but can be as low as $125 (CAD 171).
I Like to Feel Reasonably Secure
Indoor and Outdoor Security Cameras
Indoor and outdoor security cameras let you see what's happening on your property and their recordings can be used as evidence against intruders. Installation costs can vary significantly based on the number of cameras you need and other factors, such as the quality of the image and the camera's infra-red capabilities. Costs range from $125 to $450 (CAD 171 to CAD 616) per camera.
Floodlights
As the name suggests, motion-activated floodlights come on when they detect motion. They can deter potential intruders using the cover of darkness to break into homes. Costs can vary greatly, depending on the number of floodlights and the quality of lighting. LED, for example, typically costs more. Expect to pay between $250 and $800 (CAD 342 to CAD 1095).
Home Automation
Home automation is a catch-all term for smart devices and systems that control home security and comfort features. The system enables you to monitor and manage your home’s security remotely, and you'll receive alerts and notifications in emergencies. Costs depend on the security devices you choose to automate and can range from $500 to $5,000 and beyond (CAD 685 to CAD 6847).
Smart Smoke Alarms, Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Flood Sensors
Installing smart smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and flood sensors is a prudent safety measure. Installation of a basic hardwired smoke alarm starts at around $75 (CAD 103), while a smart alarm is approximately $180 (CAD 246). Expect to pay between $125 and $228 (CAD 171 to CAD 312) per single carbon monoxide detector. Flood sensors typically cost between $50 and $500 (CAD 68 to CAD 685), with installation costs averaging at $200 (CAD 274).
My Whole House Is a Panic Room
Door and Window Sensors
The easiest point of entry to most homes is its doors and windows, so securing these vulnerable points makes sense. A typical system will have sensors on all outdoor-facing doors, windows and other potential entry points. Costs reflect the number of entry points secured, so you can expect to pay between $260 and $1,090 (CAD 356 to CAD 1493).
Glass Break Sensors
Glass break sensors add another layer of security by detecting window or glass door tampering. Depending on the product you choose, expect to pay between $25 and $300 (CAD 34 to CAD 411) per product. Installation is usually between $100 and $200 (CAD 137 to CAD 274).
Motion Sensors
The two most common types of motion sensors are PIR and microwave, both able to detect movement indoors. PIR sensors detect changes in heat signatures, while microwave sensors use radio waves to detect motion. Installation costs mirror those for outdoor sensors for floodlights, so expect to pay between $250 to $800 (CAD 342 to CAD 1095).
Professional Security Monitoring
Professional security monitoring is the ultimate. A security company will monitor your property 24/7 and respond to an alarm activation, either with its own team or by contacting the police for you. Monthly costs typically range from $20 to $60 (CAD 27 to CAD 82), and you might have to pay an activation fee of around $230 (CAD 315).
