In the past, installing a home security system used to require professional technicians spending hours at your home, hardwiring sensors and camera cables through drywall or along baseboards. Today, thanks to WiFi technology, security system installation is much simpler. But even the most experienced do-it-yourselfer may benefit from some expert help. Here’s what you should know about the home security installation process to help you decide whether you should roll up your sleeves or call in the pros.
Considering DIY or professional installation
When the security of your home and family is at stake, it’s important to do something correctly, without cutting any corners. Unless you’re totally comfortable with installing, connecting, and setting up wireless door and window sensors, motion sensors, touchpads, and cameras (and connecting them all together through a mobile app), you may want to consider professional installation.
With DIY home security installation, there’s a risk of installing a device incorrectly, which could mean you run into trouble with warranty claims if something goes wrong down the line. You also could inadvertently leave part of your home potentially unprotected. A professional installer will perform a personal assessment of your home and equipment to devise a customized security system recommendation, ensuring your home (and what’s inside of it) is completely secure.
With a professional security camera installation from Xfinity, you can rest assured that your equipment is set up correctly. Professional installation also means you’ll learn the ins and outs of your system and how best to use it. We’ll also set up smartphone apps and touchscreen controllers, so that you can control all of your smart home and security features remotely through the Xfinity Home app. Now that’s a whole lot easier than reading manuals or watching online videos.
Still up for the challenge on your own? Setting up our home security system is possible to do yourself, and Xfinity products come with simple instructions for how to install security cameras. If you’re already an Xfinity Home subscriber and wish to build on to your existing system, you can easily add cameras and sensors on your own in just a few simple steps.
Installing security cameras and sensors
The biggest part of setting up a home security system is often installing sensors and cameras. Sensors “talk” to a central hub using smart home protocol such as Zigbee or Z-Wave. With DIY installation, you have the option of using an adhesive to attach the sensors to your door frames, window frames, and near entry points to your home. Sure, it’s a lot easier than drilling holes in your wall, but over time these adhesives can lose their effectiveness and may drop off. Instead, it’s best to use the provided screws and attach them securely. One of our Xfinity Home technicians can do this for you if you’re not comfortable drilling holes into your doors and windows.
The same installation process applies for security cameras: whether they’re placed indoors or outdoors, you’ll want them in a central, convenient location, so they can capture everything you want them to, without getting in your way. Mounting cameras up high and securing them properly is essential for them to work correctly. And if you’re unsure of the best placement, an Xfinity Home professional can help.
Expanding your system
DIY security systems can be expanded to fit your needs without having an installation technician visit your home again. Xfinity Home offers the benefits of both a DIY system and a professional system: you can easily add features and elements yourself. You can also incorporate any existing security or smart home devices you have on hand, if they’re compatible with Xfinity Home.
While most other DIY security systems are standalone and don’t integrate with other smart home systems, Xfinity Home can connect it all. This gives you more complete (and remote) control over your home, all while providing additional security benefits. For example, if the system detects a fire alarm, it can call the fire department, turn on the lights, and unlock the doors so you can get out more easily. It can even shut down your HVAC system to help prevent fire and smoke from spreading through the air ducts.
Get the most out of your investment with a professional installation that can help you integrate your home automation and security system in the smartest (and safest) way possible.
