Have you ever wondered if your home security system is actually protecting you, or if it's just an expensive doorbell with a sticker? I sure did, which is why I spent the last year testing five different professionally installed systems in the same house. The results were... eye-opening, to say the least.
El Monte has always had that perfect blend of suburban comfort and accessibility that makes it such a desirable place to live in the San Gabriel Valley. With its rich history and diverse community, it's no wonder so many people choose to call it home.
But even in this charming city, security remains a concern for homeowners and the 42.3% of residents who rent. While El Monte is actually safer than many realize (property crime is 22% lower than the national average, and violent crime is also 22% below average, earning the city a solid crime grade of 7), that doesn't mean security should be an afterthought.
After spending months with different security systems professionally installed in the same test house, I'm ready to cut through the marketing hype and give you the straight talk on what actually matters for your home's security.
When it comes to home security, there are three things that truly matter to homeowners:
You don't need to spend a fortune, but you do need something that works consistently. In my testing, I found that the sweet spot isn't necessarily the most expensive system, but rather the one with the most consistent performance. False alarms are more than just annoying – they can cost you money in El Monte if police are repeatedly dispatched unnecessarily.
The features homeowners actually use daily make all the difference. Video doorbells and garage control topped the list in my testing – these aren't just security features, they're convenience features that transform how you interact with your home. Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere or remotely open your garage for a delivery has become essential, not optional, in 2025.
A security system isn't just about preventing break-ins – it's about comprehensive safety. The best systems I tested included fire and carbon monoxide detection, which are just as crucial as intrusion protection. You're not just buying equipment; you're investing in peace of mind and taking reasonable steps to protect what matters most.
It's 2025, and security technology has never been more advanced or user-friendly. The integration of AI has dramatically reduced false alarms while increasing detection accuracy. Facial recognition that actually works (and respects privacy) is now standard in better doorbell cameras.
But some things never change: reliable sensors, backup power systems, and professional monitoring remain the backbone of any effective security system. The best systems I tested, like ADT with their Google Nest integration and Vivint's smart home ecosystem, have managed to blend cutting-edge technology with these timeless fundamentals.
The doorbell cameras and integrated garage controls from both these companies stood out in my testing. Being able to see who's at your door, talk to them, and even receive packages securely has become an essential feature, not just a nice-to-have.
To make an informed decision, you need to understand how these companies actually work:
ADT operates their own monitoring centers across the country, providing 24/7 monitoring with redundant systems. What many don't realize is that SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer – they sell and install ADT equipment and services, but you're still getting ADT monitoring and support. This can sometimes cause confusion about who to contact for service issues.
Vivint takes a different approach with their direct sales and service model. They design, manufacture, install, and monitor their systems themselves, which creates a more integrated experience but sometimes at a premium price. Their smart home integration is among the best I've tested, with seamless control of security, thermostats, lighting, and more.
Here's an industry secret: many local security companies use the same central monitoring services. Alarm.com is a major platform that powers numerous local security dealers nationwide, while ADT maintains their own proprietary monitoring centers. This means the actual alarm response might be similar between a local company and a national brand, but the equipment, support, and installation quality can vary significantly.
After watching five different professional installations in my test home, I'm convinced that professional installation is worth every penny, even for tech-savvy homeowners. Here's why:
Professional installers know things you don't – like the optimal height for motion sensors to avoid pet triggers while catching human movement, or how to position door sensors to prevent bypass techniques used by intruders. These aren't things you learn from a YouTube tutorial.
The most common mistakes I've seen DIYers make include improper sensor placement (creating blind spots), inadequate tamper protection, and failure to secure the system's communication methods. One DIY installer I interviewed admitted placing a motion sensor where it was constantly triggered by heating vents – a rookie mistake a professional would never make.
When it comes to protecting your family and home, the small savings from DIY installation simply aren't worth the potential security compromises. Professional installers are trained to think like intruders and protect against their methods.
After living with these systems and watching professionals install them, I've come to a clear conclusion: while local companies often offer competitive pricing and personalized service, there's significant value in choosing established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint.
The stability, consistency, and peace of mind provided by these companies' extensive monitoring networks and support systems justify their slightly higher costs for most homeowners. Their technicians install systems day in and day out, and that specialized experience shows in the quality and thoroughness of their work.
Don't compromise on the security of your home and loved ones by cutting corners on installation. The few hundred dollars you might save with DIY or a budget provider could cost you far more in the long run – both financially and emotionally – if your system fails when you need it most.
Take it from someone who's watched professionals install five different systems in the same house: professional installation isn't just a convenience; it's an essential part of creating a truly secure home.
El Monte has a population of 113,917 and is located in Los Angeles County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $53,874. Median home value is $479,972, and the median rent is $1,351/month. With a median age of 35.6 years old, 13.4% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 20.5% having an income over $100,000. 43.6% of households are married.
According to the 2020 Decennial Census, the racial breakdown was as follows:
Home security is more than just cameras that capture bad actors committing crimes. Smart home features such as automated lighting are underrated features that can prevent thefts before they happen.
Professional monitoring is a must, and the choice generally comes down to a balance between the latest technology, overall price, and the service you receive for installation and on-going maintenance.
Our pick for the best home security system is ADT, with its exceptional reputation for customer satisfaction and professional installation, followed closely by Vivint which while slightly more expensive, has the most advanced security technology for your home.
SimpliSafe is our home security system recommendation for renters with its great balance of features and value, while offering minimal installation effort and reasonably priced professional monitoring.
