ADT Security

Overview

ADT is one of the best-known names in home security today. They’ve been in the security business for well over 100 years, and the ADT brand stands for the expectation of reliable, professional service that many consider the gold standard of home security systems as well as security systems for businesses and corporations.

Compared to the competition, ADT offers a respectable array of options for home security monitoring as well as home automation. Their pricing is also competitive, especially when considering the overall peace of mind that comes from professional installation rather than going with the do-it-yourself approach.

Features

ADT has a multitude of features which vary depending on the service that you choose. In addition to basic home monitoring, ADT also offers:

• Carbon Monoxide detection – if you have gas appliances or heating, carbon monoxide exposure is a real risk. ADT will monitor for dangerous carbon monoxide levels and trigger an alert if you are exposed.
• Fire Monitoring – more than just smoke detection, ADT fire monitoring also keeps an eye on temperature spikes around the home. This feature is always on, meaning even if your alarm is disarmed, you are still being protected in case of a fire emergency.
• Flood Protection – even if you don’t live in flood-prone areas, pipes can burst, and leaks can occur that will cause real damage. ADT monitors water levels in areas like your laundry room and basement, so you aren’t surprised by sudden flood issues.
• Video Surveillance – ADT can monitor both inside and outside your home with cameras that let you watch every angle and that alert you via email of any triggered event.
• Home Automation – Remotely arm and disarm your security system, view your camera feeds, adjust your lights, your thermostat or small appliances – ADT puts it all in your control.

Pros

For those who are looking for an immediate solution for home monitoring, ADT offers same-day installation in most areas. This means that you can schedule an installation appointment on the same day that you order your service, compared to having to wait for a home-install kit to be mailed to you.

The professional installation also offers peace of mind to those with elderly relatives or others who cannot handle the installation process themselves.

Cons

There aren’t a lot of negatives with ADT, though we have seen a few complaints crop up consistently. The primary concern many people have is that their local ADT dealer may not provide the same level of service as ADT does via the call centers. This can result in some delayed appointments and scheduling issues.

Another concern some people have with ADT is the warranty – the company does require an ongoing monthly service fee for their equipment as opposed to a lifetime or multi-year warranty included in the service. However, this monitoring fee can be expected as a cost of having actual technicians that come out and troubleshoot your system, versus having to handle it on your own.

Despite these concerns, most people find ADT to be a great value and are happy with their service.

Pricing Packages

Pricing on home security packages from ADT will vary based on the equipment you have installed as well as current deals and specials that may be available. However, below is a typical price list based on their most common packages available at the time of this review:

Essentials package – $9 per week:

• 24-hour alarm monitoring
• Digital keypad
• 3 Door/Window Sensors
• Infrared Motion Detector
• High-Decibel Alarm Siren
• Backup Battery
• Wireless Keychain Remote
• Yard Sign & Window Decals

Essentials Plus – $10 per week:

• 24-hour alarm monitoring
• Digital keypad
• 3 Door/Window Sensors
• Infrared Motion Detector
• High-Decibel Alarm Siren
• Backup Battery
• Wireless Keychain Remote
• Yard Sign & Window Decals
• Two-Way Voice

Total Protection – $11 per week:

• 24-hour alarm monitoring
• Digital keypad
• 3 Door/Window Sensors
• Infrared Motion Detector
• High-Decibel Alarm Siren
• Backup Battery
• Wireless Keychain Remote
• Yard Sign & Window Decals
• Safewatch® CellGuard®

Total Protection Plus – $12 per week:

• 24-hour alarm monitoring
• Digital keypad
• 3 Door/Window Sensors
• Infrared Motion Detector
• High-Decibel Alarm Siren
• Backup Battery
• Wireless Keychain Remote
• Yard Sign & Window Decals
• Two-Way Voice
• Safewatch® CellGuard®

Premium Protection – $14 per week:

• 24-hour alarm monitoring
• Digital keypad
• 3 Door/Window Sensors
• Infrared Motion Detector
• High-Decibel Alarm Siren
• Backup Battery
• Wireless Keychain Remote
• Yard Sign & Window Decals
• Two-Way Voice (optional)
• Safewatch® CellGuard®
• Arm/Disarm Remotely
• Web & Mobile Access
• Email & Text Alerts
• Event History
• Cameras (Optional – Added fee)
• Home Automation (Optional – added cost)

Extras

The ADT Pulse option bundles in a lot of the extras that most people expect when signing up for home security services. These include:

• Mobile access: arm and disarm your ADT system via a cellphone app
• Wireless cameras: these can be used to monitor indoor or outdoor areas, and with their DVR system you can save recordings to play back later.
• Home automation: used to control your lights, your thermostat, and more via a remote app, or through customizable scheduling, so you can set it once and have everything adjust automatically.

Is ADT right for me?

Ultimately, what makes one security company the “best” choice is a matter of personal fit. ADT may be suitable for you if:

• You want an established, reliable home security company watching over your home
• You don’t want to handle the installation and set-up of your new system on your own.
• You want the latest in home automation from a trusted brand.
• You have an existing ADT system in your home that you’d like to have activated.
• You don’t want to wait for a security system to be shipped to you.

Frequently Asked Questions about ADT

Securing your home is an important task and one that we know you don’t take lightly. To help you with your research, we’ve put together some answers to the most common questions we get about ADT’s home security services.

Why should I choose ADT home security?

ADT is one of the top choices for people who value a traditional home security system with the flexibility to upgrade for more modern features and options. ADT offers basic home monitoring at an affordable rate, but it is easy to “step up” and get offerings that will automate your home’s lights, thermostat, and appliances.

You should choose ADT if you want professional installation, a company with a solid background in home security, and a reliable home monitoring presence backed by over 100 years of security experience.

Are there any upfront costs to install an ADT home security system?

It depends on which package you choose. ADT sometimes offers free systems or free installation with new contract installs. Other deals include free monitoring equipment, with a $99 installation charge. We recommend giving them a call to find about their best deals and specials currently available, as these change regularly.

What is the warranty on home security equipment from ADT?

ADT has an ongoing monitoring warranty that you pay by the month. For as long as you are an ADT customer, your system should be under warranty.

Can ADT use my existing security system equipment?

Often the answer is yes, but you’ll need to contact ADT to confirm that your system is one that they can support. ADT can take over many different brands of security equipment, the so chances are good that your existing equipment can be used for home monitoring through ADT.

Can I add more sensors or upgrade my ADT system at a later time?

Yes, you can add service options to your current monitoring. There may be added fees for additional sensors, or a change in your monitoring service package.

What happens to my ADT service if I need to move?

ADT offers movers several options. Depending on your situation, you may be offered a free equipment package of similar equipment or equipment of the same value. You may also be able to take over an existing system in your new home, if one is currently installed. This means that you can get your ADT home security monitoring with you to almost any location. The best way to handle your move is to contact customer service to inform them of your expected move dates. Based on the information you provide, they will be able to give you the best offer and guide you through the process.

If the phone or internet service goes out, am I still protected?

That depends on the type of security system you have installed in your home. If your ADT system is wired only, you may not be protected if the phone line is cut or the power fails. However, if you have cellular monitoring, your system will continue to monitor your home for as long as your backup battery maintains power.

How do I cancel my ADT service?

ADT requires that you call into their customer service department to cancel your service. The number to call is 1-800-238-2455. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am – 10:00 pm, and on Saturday from 9:00 am – 6:00 pm.