Q: How much does a home security system cost?

<div>The average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-home-security-system.htm">cost of a home security system</a> is about $700, ranging from $280 to $1,150. Costs to consider include equipment, surveillance fees, and other additional features. Cost factors that determine your system&rsquo;s price include the type of security system, materials, labor, activation fees, monthly fees, and permits. Additional features and upgrades may include:<ul><li>Video surveillance monitoring: $40&ndash;$65 per month</li><li>Smart home locks: $150</li><li>Smart home lighting: $15&ndash;$90</li><li>Smart smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide alarms: $35&ndash;$100</li><li>Smart thermostat: $130&ndash;$500</li></ul></div>

Q: Should HVAC technicians be certified or licensed?

<div>Yes, most states require <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/which-hvac-certifications-do-technicians-need.htm">HVAC technicians to be certified</a>, and for good reason. Hiring an unlicensed HVAC technician could lead to poor quality work, costly future expenses, and potential code violations. As you browse our pro listings, take note of the &ldquo;Angi Approved&rdquo; badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include: <ul><li>The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check</li><li>Required to have applicable state and local licenses</li><li>Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review</li><li>Paying to advertise their services</li><li>Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi </li></ul>Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.</div>

Q: What do electricians charge per hour?

<div>Qualified, licensed electricians will charge from $50 to $100 per hour. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-hire-electrician.htm">cost to hire an electrician</a> for emergency visits may range from $100 to $200 per hour because this urgent service usually takes place during off hours and may require an electrician to leave or reschedule jobs they&rsquo;re currently working on. Scheduling work on holidays or during periods of high customer demand, like after a major storm, will also lead to higher rates or extra fees.</div>

Question 1

How much does a home security system cost?

Accepted Answer

The average cost of a home security system is about $700, ranging from $280 to $1,150. Costs to consider include equipment, surveillance fees, and other additional features. Cost factors that determine your system’s price include the type of security system, materials, labor, activation fees, monthly fees, and permits. Additional features and upgrades may include:

Video surveillance monitoring: $40–$65 per month
Smart home locks: $150
Smart home lighting: $15–$90
Smart smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide alarms: $35–$100
Smart thermostat: $130–$500

Video surveillance monitoring: $40–$65 per month
Smart home locks: $150
Smart home lighting: $15–$90
Smart smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide alarms: $35–$100
Smart thermostat: $130–$500

Question 2

Do you get quotes from electricians?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you should get a quote or an estimate from an electrician. Most electricians offer free estimates or quotes. When getting quotes, do your research and verify each electrician’s license. Get quotes from three different electricians to compare. If the prices or items listed appear different on the quotes, ask the electrician to clarify. Learning as much as you can about the electrical work you want done will help you get the most accurate estimate.

Question 3

Is it worth paying for a home security system?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a home security system can be worth it for your peace of mind alone, but it can also save you up to 20% on your home insurance. The insurance savings will help defray the initial setup costs and subscription costs over time. Locations with higher crime rates also make home security systems a valuable investment, but it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and asset values.

Question 4

Should HVAC technicians be certified or licensed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most states require HVAC technicians to be certified, and for good reason. Hiring an unlicensed HVAC technician could lead to poor quality work, costly future expenses, and potential code violations.

As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include:

The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check
Required to have applicable state and local licenses
Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review
Paying to advertise their services
Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi