Southeast Wiring Solutions
Determining how much a security system will cost for your home or business can be a little tricky. There are various factors to consider when it comes to not only the equipment but the setup and potential features you want to have available to you. Be that as it may, the average cost of a security system and installation is $1,346, but can range anywhere between $636 and $2,056 or more in some cases. Wired systems are less for parts but more for installation and cameras, compared to their wireless counterparts. Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) packages and IP systems are about the same cost overall, but one might be more beneficial to you. But we have good news! Installing any type of system can save costs on home insurance.
There are two choices you need to consider when looking to get a security system installed; wireless or wired and IP or CCTV. Even if you know what you want from those options, many other home security system improvements can add to the final setup and cost. Most systems have a few different cameras with either cloud (NVR) or on-site (DVR) storage. Some can include motion detectors, improved resolution, professional 24/7 monitoring, and night vision capabilities. Increased options mean increased complexity of installation and increased costs. Ultimately, your needs and preferences are going to dictate the final amount your system is going to cost.
Cost to Install Security Cameras
On average we see that security system installation costs about $1,500. There can be a wide range of cost for professional installation, depending on system type and the number of cameras. On top of equipment costs, each camera will be in the range of $100 to $200 with professional installation. A DIY security system installation will cost you nothing but time if you have the tools and are confident in your abilities. In the end, if you decide to go the DIY route or hiring a pro, getting an initial consultation will help you understand the exact needs of your home or business property. With Southeast Wiring Solutions, you can always get a FREE consultation if you are looking for an Orlando security system.
The type of security camera system will depend on many factors:
- The Size of Your Home or Business: The more area you need to be monitored, the more cameras needed. If the area is really large, you are probably going to want to invest in higher quality security cameras that have better resolution and field of vision made for larger areas.
- Security Needs: This can be anything from a couple of security cameras to monitor your children to complete coverage both inside and outside to deter criminal activity.
- External or Internal: Internal security cameras have no need to be weatherproof and this often makes them less expensive than external security cameras.
- Wired or Wireless Security Cameras: Wires make for a labor-intensive install. Professional help is recommended to protect your home.
- Monitored or Unmonitored: A security monitoring service adds to installation complexities but provides 24-hour monitoring and other upgrades for a minimal monthly fee.
Which of these options should you go with and where should they be placed to be most efficient? Consulting with a professional can help you understand what works best for your home, family, and budget.
Wired Security Camera System Costs
Even though the installation runs higher than wireless, the elements of wired systems are more affordable. Because you will need to have holes drilled, wires added, and conduit put in place, hiring a contractor is typically necessary for the average customer. Aside from them being more expensive upfront, the only real drawback is the cameras will be in fixed locations. The pros may outweigh the cons for your specific. Wired systems cannot be hacked remotely, jammed, and have power built-in, often with battery backups for power outages.
Wireless Security Camera System Costs
Wireless systems are easy to install, making them the top choice for DIY projects. A DIY install will run you, with professional work, only about $100 per camera. They’re also easy to move and almost always have remote access. Drawbacks for you might be that they have no direct power source and must be installed within your home’s wireless network range to function correctly. They often have lower resolution than wired counterparts and can be hacked remotely. Wireless models are also subject to signal interference and lag due to bandwidth limitations.
Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV)
CCTV packages can start out around $70 to $340 per camera depending on additional features you add, like high definition and larger digital in-camera storage. These are either monitored locally or store video on a physical Digital Video Recorder (DVR). Large homes and businesses often go with CCTV due to the convenient features. You can always connect a DVR to the internet which allows for remote viewing but also opens it up to hacking.
Internet Protocol (IP)
IP systems cost from $60 to $300 and are easily configurable and expandable. These often come with features like high resolution and night vision. IP cameras are almost always wireless and connect directly to the internet, making them the choice for DIY installations. They broadcast video over your local network and usually store video digitally on a Network Video Recorder (NVR). Keep in mind though, that this makes them susceptible to both hacking and internet outages.
Indoor vs Outdoor
Cameras used outside can see farther and have better resolution often cost around $100 each vs. their indoor counterparts that start at $60. Both will have an additional average of $100 each to install professionally. Indoor cameras won’t need to be weatherproof and often have a limited range and resolution. They are often of the smaller variety to help them be hidden in plain sight. External types often need better visibility and durability; both deter potential criminal activity.
Resolution
Security camera resolution is often advertised by the common 480p, 720p, and 1080p resolution terms most people are used to. With higher resolution, you are going to have a better image, but also a higher cost. What resolution you need depends on how you’ll use your system.
Low Resolution:
Anything below 1080p definition. These usually run around $100 each. These types are useful for areas where details, like faces and writing, aren’t really necessary.
High Resolution:
Those at or above 1080p definition add an additional $100 to $300 to a standard low definition camera. When you need a clear picture of a person, license plate, or another identifying mark, go with a higher definition (HD). You are going to want the details these cameras capture if the time comes.
Motion Detection
Motion detectors are often a part of a comprehensive security system. A typical motion detector camera will cost less than a standard one, running about $15 to $150. Make sure you check out the quality of this feature before you settle on a camera. Some systems start recording after the motion is detected while others might record too often for trees or lights.
Night Vision and Infrared Illuminator
A separate IR illuminator to flood a larger area runs between $15 to $90. IR cameras give a higher quality picture than standard night vision. Standard night vision is the amplification of available light, like moonlight and streetlights. Infrared (IR) imaging uses the infrared light given off by heat sources. This light isn’t visible to the human eye, but an IR camera sees it and converts it to the visible light spectrum.
Monitored Security Services
Alarm monitoring services range from $30 to $65 monthly with initial setup fees added on. These services add an additional layer of protection to your home security system. For this additional monthly charge, your home will be monitored 24 hours a day, alerting you and the authorities to any disturbance, including fires.
Audio Surveillance
Cameras with microphone setups are only a few dollars more than those without audio capabilities. Adding them after a system is already installed is usually easy and inexpensive. These can run around $10 to $30 each.
As you can see there are so many things that can affect the final cost of your home security system. If you are overwhelmed by all the options, your best bet is to talk to a professional security system installer. They can help you go over what might work best for your property and needs and help you come up with a plan. If you are in the Orlando, FL area and need a security camera system contact Southeast Wiring Solutions today!
