Home security is a top priority for many homeowners, and with advancements in technology, there are now a variety of options available to keep our homes safe. One such option is Vivint Smart Home, a company that offers state-of-the-art security systems with features like remote access, home automation, and 24/7 professional monitoring. While the benefits of a Vivint security system may be appealing, it’s important to understand the associated costs before making a decision. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the various factors that impact Vivint security system costs, provide insights into the different packages and features offered, and offer tips on how to save money on a Vivint security system.
Vivint Security System Pricing: What to Expect
Vivint security systems are highly customizable, allowing customers to choose from a range of equipment and services to create a package that meets their specific needs. As such, the cost of a Vivint security system can vary greatly depending on the features and equipment selected. In general, the cost of a Vivint security system can be broken down into three main categories: equipment and installation fees, monthly monitoring fees, and any additional costs such as add-on equipment or financing charges.
Equipment and Installation Fees
The foundation of any Vivint security system is the equipment and installation. The initial investment will depend on the type and number of sensors and devices selected. Here’s a breakdown of the potential costs:
| Equipment/Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Control Panel | $50 – $200 |
| Door/Window Sensors | $20 – $50 per sensor |
| Motion Detectors | $50 – $100 per sensor |
| Glass Break Sensors | $50 – $100 per sensor |
The control panel serves as the central hub of the system, allowing you to arm and disarm your system, receive alerts, and control other devices. Prices can range from $50 for a basic model to $200 for a more advanced touchscreen panel with smartphone integration.
Door/window sensors are an essential part of any security system as they alert you when a door or window is opened. The cost of these sensors can vary depending on the number needed, with prices ranging from $20 to $50 per sensor.
Motion detectors are designed to detect movement in a designated area and can be used to protect larger spaces such as living rooms or hallways. Depending on the technology and features, motion detectors can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per sensor.
Glass break sensors, while not essential, can provide an added layer of protection by detecting the sound frequency of breaking glass. These sensors typically cost between $50 and $100 each.
In addition to these core components, Vivint also offers add-on equipment such as cameras, smart locks, and thermostats that can further enhance your security and home automation capabilities. These additional devices come at an extra cost and can range from $100 to $300 each.
Installation fees are also a key factor to consider in the overall cost of a Vivint security system. Vivint offers professional installation services, which means that a trained technician will come to your home and set up your system for you. This service typically costs around $99, but it may be waived during promotional periods.
Monthly Monitoring Fees
One of the unique features of Vivint security systems is the option for 24/7 professional monitoring. This means that in the event of an emergency, Vivint’s monitoring center will be notified and will dispatch the appropriate authorities. Vivint offers three different monitoring plans, each with its own set of features and costs:
| Monitoring Plan | Cost |
|---|---|
| Smart Security | $29.99 per month |
| Smart Home | $39.99 per month |
| Smart Home Video | $49.99 per month |
The Smart Security plan includes 24/7 monitoring, cellular connection (no landline required), and the Vivint app for remote access. The Smart Home plan includes all the features of the Smart Security plan, plus home automation capabilities such as smart lighting and thermostat control. The Smart Home Video plan includes all the features of the Smart Home plan, plus video surveillance with live streaming and recording capabilities.
It’s important to note that while these monthly fees cover the cost of professional monitoring, they do not include any equipment costs. If you opt for a payment plan for your equipment, those costs will be added to your monthly bill.
Additional Costs
In addition to the equipment and installation fees and monthly monitoring fees, there may be some additional costs associated with a Vivint security system. These can include add-on equipment or accessories, service calls for maintenance or repairs, and financing charges if you choose to finance your system instead of paying for it upfront.
Factors Influencing Vivint Security System Costs
While the equipment and services offered by Vivint are similar across different markets, the price of a Vivint security system can vary depending on various factors. Here are some of the key factors that can influence the cost of a Vivint security system:
Location
The location of your home can have an impact on the overall cost of your Vivint security system. Certain areas may require additional equipment or features to ensure optimal security, which can increase the overall cost. Additionally, taxes and other fees may vary depending on where you live.
Size of Your Home
The size of your home is another factor to consider when determining the cost of a Vivint security system. Larger homes may require more sensors and equipment, which can lead to a higher upfront cost. However, having a larger home may also make it more vulnerable to break-ins, making a comprehensive security system all the more important.
Desired Features and Services
As mentioned earlier, Vivint offers a range of features and services that can be added to your security system at an extra cost. The more features you choose, the higher the overall cost will be. It’s important to carefully consider which features are essential for your home’s security and which ones you can do without.
Breakdown of Vivint Security System Packages and Features
Vivint offers three basic packages that cater to different needs and budgets: Smart Security, Smart Home, and Smart Home Video. Let’s take a closer look at the features included in each package:
Smart Security
The Smart Security package is the most basic package offered by Vivint and is ideal for those looking for a simple yet effective security solution. This package includes professional monitoring, cellular connection, and access to the Vivint app. With this package, you can arm and disarm your system remotely, receive alerts, and control your smart devices, such as lights and thermostats.
Smart Home
The Smart Home package builds upon the features of the Smart Security package and adds home automation capabilities. In addition to 24/7 monitoring and cellular connection, this package also includes access to the Vivint app for remote control of your smart devices. You can also add up to 30 smart devices, such as lighting and thermostat controls, to your system with the Smart Home package.
Smart Home Video
The Smart Home Video package is the most comprehensive plan offered by Vivint and includes all the features of the Smart Home package, plus video surveillance. With this package, you can add up to four indoor and outdoor cameras to your system, giving you live streaming and recording capabilities. This package also includes additional storage for recorded footage.
Vivint Security System Installation Costs: What’s Included?
Installing a Vivint security system requires professional installation, which is typically completed within a few hours. The installation process includes the following steps:
- Consultation: A Vivint representative will visit your home to assess your security needs and provide recommendations on the best system for your home.
- Equipment Setup: The technician will install all of the necessary equipment, including the control panel, sensors, and any additional devices you have selected.
- System Configuration: The technician will configure your system and connect it to your home’s Wi-Fi network.
- User Training: Before leaving, the technician will provide a demonstration of how to use the system and answer any questions you may have.
The cost of installation is typically around $99, although this fee may be waived during promotional periods. This fee covers the labor and time required to install the system and does not include the cost of any additional equipment or services.
Vivint Security System Monitoring Fees: Monthly and Annual Costs
As discussed earlier, Vivint offers three different monitoring plans with varying costs. These fees are charged on a monthly basis, but customers also have the option to pay for a full year in advance at a discounted rate. Here’s a closer look at the pricing options for each plan:
| Monitoring Plan | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost (Full Payment) |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Security | $29.99 | $360 |
| Smart Home | $39.99 | $480 |
| Smart Home Video | $49.99 | $600 |
While paying for a full year upfront can save you some money, it’s important to consider if this is feasible for your budget. You also have the option to cancel or change your plan at any time, so you’re not locked into a long-term commitment.
Comparing Vivint Security System Costs to Competitors
When deciding on a security system, it’s always a good idea to compare prices and features from different providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Let’s take a look at how Vivint stacks up against some of its competitors:
| Provider | Upfront Cost | Monthly Cost (Monitoring) |
|---|---|---|
| Vivint | $99 – $500+ | $29.99 – $49.99 |
| ADT | $125 – $200+ | $27.99 – $58.99 |
| Frontpoint | $199 – $449 | $44.99 |
| SimpliSafe | $229 – $489 | $14.99 – $24.99 |
| Nest Secure | $399 | $29 |
As you can see, the upfront costs for a Vivint security system can vary greatly depending on the features and equipment chosen. However, when it comes to monthly monitoring fees, Vivint falls within the same price range as its competitors. It’s important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on promotions and special offers.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: Cost Considerations
One factor that may influence your decision when it comes to purchasing a Vivint security system is the installation process. While Vivint offers professional installation, there are also other options available, such as do-it-yourself (DIY) installation. Here are some things to consider when deciding between professional and DIY installation:
Professional Installation
- Pros:
- Trained technicians will handle the entire installation process.
- You have access to expert advice and support.
- Installation time is typically quicker than DIY.
- Cons:
- There is an upfront cost for installation.
- You must schedule a time for the technician to come to your home.
- If any issues arise after installation, you may need to pay for a service call.
DIY Installation
- Pros:
- No upfront costs for installation.
- You can install the system at your convenience.
- You have full control over the setup process.
- Cons:
- Installation can be time-consuming and may require technical knowledge.
- You are responsible for any issues that arise during or after installation.
- There is no expert support available.
Ultimately, the decision between professional and DIY installation will depend on your budget, level of technical knowledge, and personal preferences. While professional installation does come at an extra cost, it ensures that your system is set up correctly and functioning properly from the start, giving you peace of mind and saving you time and potential headaches.
Financing Options for Vivint Security Systems: Payment Plans and Loans
For those who don’t have the funds readily available to pay for a Vivint security system upfront, there are financing options available. Vivint offers payment plans with monthly payments spread over 42 or 60 months. The total cost of the system will depend on the equipment and services selected, but interest rates typically range from 4.99% to 9.99%.
Another option for financing a Vivint security system is through third-party lenders like LightStream and SoFi. These companies offer personal loans specifically for home improvement projects, including installing a security system. Interest rates and terms may vary depending on the lender and your credit score.
When considering financing for your Vivint security system, it’s important to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions to ensure you’re getting the best deal and that you will be able to make the monthly payments comfortably.
Tips for Saving Money on a Vivint Security System
While Vivint offers top-of-the-line security systems, they also come at a higher price point compared to some of their competitors. If you’re interested in a Vivint system but want to save some money, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Take advantage of promotions and special offers: Vivint often runs promotions throughout the year, offering discounted installation fees or reduced monthly monitoring costs. Keep an eye out for these deals and take advantage of them when they align with your needs and budget.
- Choose only the features you need: Vivint offers a range of add-on equipment and services, but not all of them may be necessary for your specific security needs. Carefully consider which features are essential and try to avoid adding on unnecessary ones to save on upfront costs.
- Consider DIY installation: While professional installation may offer peace of mind, it does come at an extra cost. If you have some technical knowledge and are comfortable setting up your security system yourself, choosing a DIY installation can help you save money.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of a Vivint security system can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors such as location, size of your home, desired features, and installation method. Understanding these factors and carefully considering your needs and budget will help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing a security system for your home. With its advanced technology, customizable packages, and professional monitoring, Vivint offers a comprehensive security solution that may be worth the investment for those looking to protect their homes and loved ones.
