How to Pick the Best Home Security System Installer in Reading, PA

We've done the hands-on testing and local research to help you decide. 

Is Your Reading Home Really Secure? What I Learned Testing 5 Professional Security Systems

Have you ever wondered if your home security system is actually protecting you, or just giving you a false sense of security? I sure did, which is why I spent months testing five different professionally installed systems in the same house. What I discovered might surprise you.

Reading, PA: Charm, Character, and... Crime?

Reading, Pennsylvania has undeniable charm with its historic architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The Pagoda offers breathtaking views, and the city's rich industrial heritage gives it character you won't find elsewhere. But behind this charming facade lies a concerning reality that residents can't ignore.

In 2025, Reading continues to face significant security challenges. Property crime rates are 52% higher than the national average, while violent crime soars at 82% above average. With a crime grade of 0 (yes, zero), security isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity for both the homeowners and the 39.4% of residents who rent.

That's why I decided to cut through the marketing hype and test multiple security systems in the same house. After living with these systems and experiencing the installation process firsthand, I'm ready to share what actually matters when securing your Reading home.

What Really Matters to Reading Homeowners

Value vs. Reliability

When it comes to home security, the cheapest option isn't always the best value. Think of it like buying tires for your car—you could save money upfront with budget options, but is that savings worth the risk of a blowout on the highway? Similarly, a security system that fails when you need it most isn't a bargain at any price.

The systems that offered the best reliability-to-cost ratio in my testing were those with professional monitoring and regular system checks. These weren't necessarily the most expensive options, but they did require ongoing investment.

Quality of Life Features That Matter Most

Surprisingly, the security features my family and I used most weren't the motion sensors or window contacts—they were the smart doorbell cameras and garage door controls. These aren't just security features; they're daily conveniences that transform how you interact with your home.

Imagine never missing a package delivery again or being able to let in a repair person remotely while you're at work. In my testing, ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint offered the most seamless implementations of these features.

Investment in Peace of Mind

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 could literally save your life. When you consider that a home security system costs less annually than many people spend on coffee, the investment in your family's safety seems like a no-brainer.

What's State of the Art in 2025 (And What's Timeless)

The security landscape has evolved dramatically in 2025. AI-powered cameras can now distinguish between a prowler and your neighbor's cat with remarkable accuracy. Wireless technology has become more reliable, and integration with other smart home systems is nearly seamless.

But some aspects of security remain timeless. Proper sensor placement, backup power systems, and professional monitoring are as important now as they were decades ago. The best systems I tested combined cutting-edge technology with these fundamental principles.

For example, modern doorbell cameras now offer facial recognition and package detection, but they're still performing the basic function of letting you see who's at your door—just much more effectively.

Understanding How Security Companies Operate

ADT and SafeStreets: The Franchise Model

ADT operates through a network of authorized dealers, with SafeStreets being one of the largest. Think of it like a McDonald's franchise—the local business follows strict corporate standards while providing local service. This means when you deal with SafeStreets, you're getting ADT's technology and monitoring centers with local installation and service.

ADT maintains six monitoring centers across the country, ensuring redundancy if one center goes offline. This is something many people don't realize—your system isn't just connected to one call center, but to a network designed to stay operational even in disasters.

Vivint: The Direct Sales Approach

Vivint takes a different approach, operating as a direct provider rather than through dealers. They design, manufacture, install, and monitor their systems themselves. This vertical integration allows them to offer highly integrated smart home features and maintain tight quality control.

In my testing, Vivint's system offered the most cohesive smart home experience, though at a premium price point.

The Monitoring Backbone

Here's an industry secret: many local security companies use the same monitoring services. Alarm.com provides the backbone for numerous local dealers nationwide, while ADT uses its proprietary monitoring network. This means the actual emergency response process might be very similar regardless of which company's name is on your bill.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

As someone who builds computers for fun, I thought I could handle installing a security system. I was wrong.

Professional installers know tricks that most homeowners don't—like the optimal height for motion sensors to avoid false alarms from pets, or how to position door sensors to prevent tampering. They understand RF signal propagation and can spot potential wireless dead zones in your home.

Common DIY mistakes I've seen include:

  • Placing motion sensors where sunlight will trigger false alarms
  • Installing door sensors where they can be easily bypassed
  • Failing to secure the system's brain (the control panel) from tampering
  • Missing critical areas that should be protected

When it comes to your family's safety, this isn't the place to cut corners or learn by trial and error.

Top Home Security Installers in Reading

National Providers

  • SafeStreets (ADT Authorized Dealer): In my testing, SafeStreets provided the most comprehensive installation experience. Their technicians spent extra time explaining the system and ensuring optimal sensor placement. Their ADT-backed monitoring proved reliable, with quick response times during test alarms. Their partnership with Google Nest delivers excellent doorbell camera and smart home functionality.
  • Vivint: Vivint's system offered the most polished smart home integration I tested. Their technicians were knowledgeable about both security and home automation. Their equipment has a premium feel, and their app was the most intuitive. However, their pricing tends to be higher than competitors.
  • SimpliSafe: While primarily a DIY solution, SimpliSafe does offer professional installation. It's the most affordable option and ideal for renters since it's easily movable and requires no long-term contracts.

Local Reading Installers

  • Security First: Offering both security systems and home automation at 107 W Lancaster Ave, they provide personalized service with competitive pricing.
  • A American Home Security System: Located at 419 Washington St, they focus on traditional security solutions with local monitoring options.
  • Solutions AVT: Based at 1060 Morgantown Rd, they specialize in integrating security with home theater and network installation for a comprehensive approach.
  • The Cuda Brothers: This company at 6 Cedarwood Rd combines electrical expertise with security installation, offering unique insights into hardwired systems.
  • D&A It Solution: Located at 1505 Frush Valley, they excel in integrating security with home networking for tech-savvy homeowners.
  • Pony Express Home Security: Found at 450 S 5th St, they offer straightforward security solutions with a focus on reliability.
  • Locktech 24/7: While primarily a locksmith service, they offer basic security solutions that complement their expertise in physical security.

Crime Trends in Reading: Why Security Matters

With property crime 52% above the national average and violent crime a staggering 82% higher, Reading residents face real security challenges. These aren't just statistics—they represent real homes broken into and real families affected.

For the 39.4% of Reading residents who rent, security is equally important. SimpliSafe offers portable systems that don't require permanent installation, while still providing professional monitoring.

Conclusion: National vs. Local—Making the Choice

After months of testing different systems, here's my bottom line: while local companies may offer competitive pricing and personalized service, the stability, consistency, and technological advantages of established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint provide superior peace of mind for most homeowners.

The slightly higher cost translates to more reliable service, better app experiences, and the financial stability to honor warranties and service agreements for years to come. When it comes to protecting what matters most, that premium is worth every penny.

Whatever you choose, please don't cut corners on professional installation. The expertise these technicians bring ensures your system works when you need it most—and that's something you can't put a price on.

Your family deserves the best protection possible. Make the call today.

Important Considerations

Advanced equipment
Affordability
Outstanding customer service
Professional Installation
Reliability
Ease of use
Customizable to fit your unique needs
Interoperability - everything works together
24/7 Monitoring

Recommended Home Security System Companies in Reading, Pennsylvania

ADT

ADT is the gold standard, and they now have Google Nest as a partner. Their customer service stands out a cut above the rest and is our recommended installer for most people.
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Vivint

Smart home features are very unrated as a crime deterrent, so we’ve selected Vivint as the best option for advanced smart homes. Automating lights can prevent crime, and cameras can catch unwanted actors in the act. 
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SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe is the best option for renters since you buy the equipment up-front. Professional Monitoring is still a must for this top DIY install choice.
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Latest 2025 Home Security Deals and Promo Codes

SafeStreets ADT - take your pick of these bonus offers:

Vivint offers:


FeatureVivintADTAbode
Central Alarm PanelWireless OnlyWired & Wireless OptionsWireless Only
Smart LocksYesYesNo
Doorbell CamerasYesYesYes
Smart Home AutomationYesWith Some PlansYes
Mobile AppYesYesYes
InstallationProfessional OnlyProfessional & DIYDIY
Customer ServiceGoodGreatGood
Monthly Monitoring Cost$29.99 to $49.99$27.99 to $58.99$12.42
Installation Cost$0+$0+$0
Return Policy30-Day6-Months30-Day

Choosing a Home Security System Installer in Reading

Choosing the home security system that works best for you can seem like a daunting task but taking a few moments to assess your needs will make the decision much easier.

Rent vs. Own

Whether you rent or own will influence which home security system is right for you. Renters will want to consider systems that won’t cause any permanent damage to walls since you will likely have to either make repairs yourself or lose some of your deposit when you leave. This will also make it easier to bring your equipment with you when you decide to relocate. Another consideration for renters will be whether the landlord permits affixing security cameras to the exterior of the structure and if it can surveil common areas (e.g., apartment hallways, carports, etc.). We recommend you review your lease agreement and consult with your landlord before installing any home security system component on the exterior of a rental.

Homeowners have a little more leeway when choosing a home security system since they can attach permanent fixtures like surveillance cameras and smart locks, and they typically won’t move as often as renters. However, a greater number of potential configurations makes choosing the best home security system company even more challenging, which is why it’s important to assess your needs.

Family and Visitors in the Home

Another consideration is who lives in the residence and how many people you allow access to the home. Renters with roommates may only need a security camera for their room, whereas a homeowner may want full interior coverage. If you have kids that let themselves in after school, a doorbell camera can let you know they made it home safe. If you have caregivers or others who you allow periodic access to the home, then a smart lock with customizable codes is perfect for monitoring who is accessing the house. And of course, motion sensors and interior security cameras can let you keep an eye on those furry family members while you’re away.

Professional Installation vs. Do-It-Yourself

For smaller projects, like a single camera or smart lock installation, you may want to do it yourself if you’ve got the tools and are somewhat handy. For anything bigger or more complex, professional home security system installation is the way to go. Considering the time it’ll take you to install it yourself – not to mention the headache – any money spent on installation will be well worth it. And if you choose Vivint, installation is free.

More importantly, a professional will ensure your home doesn't have any blind-spots or weaknesses in coverage. From glass-break sensors to pet-immune motion sensors, the more layers of detection the better. If you have pets, pros like you'll find at ADT are what we recommend to most people.

How Important are Smart Home Features for protecting your Reading home?

It’s easy to forget that home security systems don’t begin and end with just door and window sensing. When choosing a security system for you home, some companies like Vivint have nearly endless automation options. We feel that preventing break-ins with smart home features like light automation and doorbell camera is the way to go.

Easy to Use Mobile App

Having an intuitive app that controls your home security devices from a smartphone or tablet allows you to get the most out of your investment.

How Smart Home Automation Can Prevent Crimes

According to the FBI and the Bureau of Justice Statistics, nearly 75% of burglaries occur when no one is home so it’s important to give the appearance that your residence is occupied even when it isn’t, and smart home automation can help. Automatically turning your interior and exterior lights on and off to give the appearance of being occupied is one of the key features of smart home automation, especially when you’re on vacation.

Additionally, smart door locks and automated garage door systems, like MyQ, can not only alert you when they are opened, but also answer those nagging questions while you’re away like “Did I forget to close the garage door?” or “Did the kids lock the front door when they left?”

Reading, PA Local Security Installers

Choosing between a nationwide home security system company and a smaller, local one can be a tough choice for some people. Here are the pros and cons to each:

Nationwide companies:

  • Pros:
    • Lower prices due to higher volume of business
    • Wider range of available equipment
    • More established / more likely to be in business for the long-term
  • Cons:
    • Potential for impersonal service
    • Longer-term contracts

Local companies:

  • Pros:
    • Supports local economy
    • May be more familiar with your area’s needs
  • Cons:
    • Smaller staff can cause delayed installation
    • Higher pricing
    • May not be in business long-term

We recommend the national installers Vivint for it's class leading technology and ADT for superior customer service and all around value.

Reading, PA Home Security System Installers

Find a local security company

Security First
107 W Lancaster Ave
A American Home Security System
419 Washington St
Solutions AVT
1060 Morgantown Rd
The Cuda Brothers
6 Cedarwood Rd
D&A It Solution
1505 frush valley
Pony Express Home Security
450 S 5th St
SAH Incorporated
50 S Museum Rd
Triple H Alarm
2147 Perkiomen Ave
CF Restoration LLC
Locktech 24/7

Areas Served

Neighborhoods of Reading, PA

Cities Nearby Reading, Pennsylvania

Bernville, PA
Alleghenyville, PA
Womelsdorf, PA
Elverson, PA
Akron, PA
Adamstown, PA
Fivepointville, PA
Reading, PA

Zip Codes in Reading, Pennsylvania

19601
19604
19602
19611

Information About Reading

Reading has a population of 278,693 and is located in Berks County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $35,745. Median home value is $77,833, and the median rent is $817/month. With a median age of 30.6 years old, 10.1% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 10% having an income over $100,000. 30.5% of households are married.

Reading Demographics

According to the 2020 Decennial Census, the racial breakdown was as follows:

  • White – 47.5%
  • Two or More Races – 16.6%
  • Black or African American – 13.3%
  • Other Race – 20.4%
  • Asian – 1.1%
  • American Indian and Alaska Native – 1.2%
  • Native Hawaiian / Other Pacific Islander – 0%

Final Considerations

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.

Reading, Pennsylvania Home Security System FAQs

What is the best home security system in Reading

Based on our research, the best home security system option for residents of Reading, PA is ADT, followed by Vivint. With free professional installation, 24/7 monitoring, a wide variety of home security, cameras, and smart home options to suit any need, reasonable monthly fees, and superior customer service, ADT is the security system we’d choose for our homes.

How much does it cost to install security systems?

Home security system cost vary greatly depending on the size of the house and number of devices. You can get started for as little as $280 for a system, but the average homeowner should expect to pay around $700 for a complete system with home automation.

Professional installation costs can range from $120 - $600, with the potential for even higher costs depending on how much equipment you purchase. However, some larger home security companies offer reduced pricing or even free installation with the purchase of a system and monitoring.

Monthly monitoring fees range anywhere from $10 - $65 dollars per month depending on installation type (landline vs cellular) and services offered.

Why is a security system needed?

When it comes to keeping your property and loved ones safe, home security systems are one of the top ways to accomplish that mission and sleep peaceably at night knowing you’re covered.

Can I install a security system by myself?

Most people can install a single device, such as a wireless camera, relatively easily. When it comes to installing multiple, interconnected devices, professional installation is best. Abode is a great DIY option.

What is the best DIY security system?

Abode is the best DIY home security system option. They have a wide variety of products you can mix-and-match to fit your needs, all with easy installation.

Does Vivint offer free installation?

Yes. Vivint offers free installation and no activation fee for new customers.

Does ADT offer free installation?

Sometimes promotions are available for free installation, though usually there is a $99 fee. The best option is to check here for the latest promotion that Safestreets currently has available.

How can I prevent break-ins?

Home security systems are the best way to prevent break-ins, but there are other steps you can take to protect yourself. Sufficient exterior lighting around your house, keeping entry points such as windows unobscured, and participating in programs like a neighborhood watch are all steps you can take to deter break-ins.

Does a security camera system prevent break-ins?

Yes. A study by the University of North Carolina of incarcerated burglars found that most looked for indications of increased security (e.g. alarms, cameras, etc.) when selecting a target, and that the presence of a security system would cause about 60% of them to “shop” elsewhere.

© JRW Publishing Company, 2023
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