What does your Alarm System really cost?
Is there such a thing as a free home security system? What about those $49 security systems? How can I tell if I am getting a good deal?
Aggressive security companies push low upfront costs in exchange for a contract. Let's take a look at how these deals work.
How much does a $99 system really cost?
$99 (or similarily priced systems) generally include the following leased equipment that belong to the alarm company:
- Control Panel
- LCD display
- 2 Door or Window Contacts
- Indoor Alarm
Leased System Costs
| Service or Equipment | Total Cost |
| Leased Equipment Cost: | $0* |
| Installation Cost: | $99 |
| Monthly Monitoring Costs of $35 over the 36 month contract | $1260 |
| Total Cost Over 3 Year Contract | $1359 |
Purchased Security System Costs
- Control Panel
- LCD display
- All Doors monitored
- Up to 5 main floor windows monitored
- Indoor Alarm
| Service or Equipment | Total Cost |
| Equipment and Installation Cost: | $450 |
| Monthly Monitoring Costs of $15-20 over 36 months (with no contract) | $540-$720 |
| Total Cost Over 3 Years | $990 - $1170 |
Based on a $15 a month service, the leased system would cost over $300 more in the first 3 years, each month you have the security system, purchasing the system outright becomes better value. Also since your system is non-proprietary you can switch providers, and also cancel your monitoring at anytime.
Lease vs. Purchase Security System Calculator
| What are the upfront costs for the Leased System (Installation + Equipment)? | $ |
| What are the upfront costs for the Purchased System (Installation + Equipment)? | $ |
| How many months is the Lease Contract? | $ |
| How much is the Leased System Monthly monitoring costs? | $ |
| How much is the Purchased System Monthly monitoring costs? | $ |