Can I Use Adt Without Subscription: Does it Make Sense for You?

Can I use ADT without subscription? Yes, you can use ADT without a subscription. ADT DIY offers a video doorbell without a subscription or contract.

I wondered the same thing when I moved into my new home. The previous owner had an ADT system installed but didn’t leave behind account details.

Naturally, I wanted to continue using the cameras and motion sensors but balked at expensive monitoring fees.

After doing a deep dive on ADT equipment capabilities with and without monthly fees, I discovered some good news. 

You absolutely can utilize key components of an ADT system without an ongoing subscription. 

There are definitely limitations to understand, but also worthwhile benefits if professional monitoring doesn’t fit your budget or needs.

Throughout this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything I learned about how to use ADT devices without regular payments.

We’ll cover:

• Getting started with self monitoring ADT equipment
• Strategies for leveraging sensors, cameras and other hardware
• What you won’t be able to do after canceling service
• Alternatives that provide security without subscriptions
• And answers to frequently asked questions on using ADT without monthly fees

By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to make the most of ADT equipment with or without professional monitoring.

Let’s get started.

Getting Started With ADT Without a Monitoring Plan

First things first – using ADT equipment without the monitoring service means taking over key tasks yourself. 

That includes activating devices, connecting them so they communicate properly, setting up notifications and keeping firmware updated.

You’ll also have to accept that some components simply won’t work anymore. Certain ADT devices rely on cellular signals, professional monitoring centers, and advanced integration to function. Just know that going into the process.

Now let’s look at the specifics of utilizing an ADT system once you cancel that pricey monthly subscription:

Using Existing ADT Equipment Without Service

If your home is already set up with ADT sensors, cameras or control panels, the good news is most of them can operate without official monitoring. 

Professional installation isn’t required to get things connected to an app for notifications and remote access.

However, the bad news is that ADT technicians intentionally limit functionality for equipment after a subscription is canceled. 

This prevents full use unless monitoring payments continue. Some capabilities are permanently disabled while others simply need to be reactivated through DIY effort.

For example, motion sensors will still sense movement without monthly fees, but the professional monitoring centers won’t receive alerts to dispatch emergency responders.

ADT intentionally cuts off this communication channel. Meanwhile, security cameras can function just fine for self-monitoring purposes, but lose advanced features like facial recognition without a paid account.

So in most cases, you have to work around ADT’s blocks in order to restore security system functionality on your own. We’ll explore those workarounds for sensors, cameras and control panels coming up shortly.

Cost Savings of Self Monitoring ADT

Clearly the biggest motivation for using ADT equipment without a monitoring plan is avoiding yet another monthly subscription. 

Depending on the level of service, ADT professional monitoring can cost anywhere from $34.99 up to $59.99 per month according to their website.

That shakes out to $420 to $720 per year – Certainly enough to limit interest from folks only needing basic alerts and features.

And unlike cell phone or internet bills that you depend on for everyday life, professional monitoring just isn’t a required utility for many homeowners.

Let’s take a look at how costs add up over time with and without ADT’s subscriptions:

Timeframe	Self Monitoring Cost	Pro Monitoring Cost	Potential Savings
1 Year	$0	$420-$720	$420-$720
2 Years	$0	$840-$1,440	$840-$1,440
5 Years	$0	$2,100-$3,600	$2,100-$3,600

As you can see, avoiding monthly costs allows your household to save anywhere from $420 to $720 per year.

Over a 5 year period, that money could fund a family vacation, bathroom remodel or other fun splurges!

Of course, I only recommend self monitoring ADT systems if you feel confident handling notifications and connectivity issues on your own long term.

As a DIY tradeoff, the responsibility for maintaining functionality falls on you once ADC’s professional service is removed.

To help weigh that tradeoff, let’s talk about any notable limitations you’ll encounter with discontinued monitoring…

Limitations of ADT Without Subscription

Going the DIY monitoring route means giving up some conveniences and advanced integrations that come with ADC systems under monthly plans. Most notably:

• No more 24/7 professional monitoring means no emergency dispatch if intruders set off your sensors or break-in. You won’t have that guaranteed human response for crimes-in-progress like with paid ADT plans. Only self-monitoring alerts.
• Access is cut off to any ADT cellular or radio signals used to communicate with monitoring centers. Alarm events, video feeds and automation controls using those dedicated wireless networks will cease.
• Potential compatibility issues with additional ADT security products like fire monitoring, medical alert pendants and more. They often depend on pro monitoring.
• Loss of full app functionality due to blocked remote access without an active user account.
• No more integration with ADT-exclusive platforms like ADT Pulse or custom automation rules.

However, let’s not forget what you DO keep even without monthly fees:

• Independent operation of sensors and cameras for self-monitoring
• Access to device notifications through third party apps or software
• Continued deterrence from a visible home security sign outside
• Potential DIY connectivity to other smart home platforms

Now that we’ve covered the basics of using ADT without subscriptions, let’s look at how to handle specific components like cameras, control panels and sensors. We’ll start with surveillance cameras first…

Can I Use Adt Without Subscription

Absolutely YES, as far as, security cameras and intruder sensors offer the most potential for ongoing value past cancelling ADT monitoring.

As long as you can connect them to wifi and configure notifications, they don’t really need professional monitoring to function.

Let’s explore how to unlock that standalone functionality when money gets tight.

Viewing ADT Cameras on Your Own

Many households use ADT primarily for video surveillance from outdoor cameras and video doorbells these days.

The good news is that most IP cameras can operate even without monthly fees. 

Unlike old analog CCTV systems, modern IP cameras simply need an internet connection and app access rather than ADT subscription status.

For example, self-monitoring users report that cameras like the ADT HD Outdoor Camera work independently for live viewing once reconnected to home wifi.

You just need new login details rather than using deactivated ADT accounts. The manufacturer Swann’s Security app allows video access without professional monitoring status.

This even permits saving motion triggered event clips locally to your phone.

However, certain conveniences do vanish without monthly services:

• Lost motion-activated professional monitoring triggers
• No more ADT cloud storage for continuous backups
• Inability to control other ADT cameras or sensors

Still, you retain plenty for casual surveillance if rebooting cameras and accessing them directly rather than relying on defunct ADT user accounts. Let’s talk about those intruder sensors next…

Connecting ADT Sensors to Other Systems

Passive security sensors like motion detectors, door/window contacts and glass break detectors require a hub or control panel to route alerts.

When professional monitoring gets cut off, connecting ADT sensors to a separate smart home platform keeps notifications active.

For example, many homeowners successfully pair window/door sensors with Samsung SmartThings or Amazon Alexa Guard through compatibility modes. This takes over monitoring duty from deactivated ADT equipment.

You won’t get that ADT branding anymore, but who cares when intrusion notifications still make phones buzz based on sensor activity?

For simpler alerts without automation rules, battery-powered sensors can even operate independently if positioned correctly.

For instance, standalone motion detectors equipped with 85dB mini sirens will trigger loud alarms whenever someone crosses into range.

No app or hub needed! Just note that false alarms get annoying fast without sensitivity adjustments (lookin’ at you, cats and dogs)

Time to wrap up our sensors discussion with a DIY tip for leveraging ADT control panels remotely without monthly fees…

Controlling ADT Remotely With No Monitoring

ADT control panels act as central hubs that connect security components and route alert notifications. Usually access relies on active monitoring service, but workaround exist.

For example, the popular ADT Command Touchscreen Panel can be controlled directly through the web or manufacturer app without needing ADT credentials. This permits manual operation to arm/disarm the system or check system status.

You won’t get ADT Pulse integration or professional monitoring triggers this way. However, retaining direct access restores personal control over equipment functioning.

Just make sure to disable automated test signal pings that generate false dispatch fees without a subscription.

Now let’s explore your best alternatives to ADT monitoring services for maximizing home protection without regular fees.

Alternatives to Paying for ADT Monitoring

Dropping ADT to avoid another monthly bill often means finding an equally reliable monitoring replacement.

Let’s compare your best options for maintaining alerts and functionality without ongoing payments to a home security company.

Self Monitoring With Other Security Systems

If you like the reassurance of complete home protection, substitute ADT with a more affordable DIY security package. 

Brands like SimpliSafe and Cove sell equipment without contracts that also self-monitor through free apps.

Professional monitoring exists as an option too, but with lower monthly fees closer to $15 rather than ADT’s $35+ rate.

This gives you flexibility to test things without commitment before adding that service layer.

One thing I appreciate about SimpliSafe is the clearly labeled monitoring plan pricing starting at $0.

You only pay if wanting cellular backup alerts or live emergency dispatch. And there’s always the option to revert to app notifications only.

Many homeowners combine DIY equipment into complete systems – like having Eufy cameras trigger Wyze sense sensors when motion crosses virtual boundaries. You get comprehensive monitoring without any monthly fees that way!

Smart Home Integration Without ADT Fees

If you simply want motion alerts to investigate yourself, leverage WiFi cameras and sensors through free smart home platforms. 

This takes advantage of their independence rather than relying on ADT as an end-to-end provider.

For example, connect cameras directly to the Google Home or Amazon Alexa apps.

Then pair contact sensors on doors and windows with a SmartThings or Hubitat hub.

You can even program automations like flashing Hue lights whenever the front door opens after hours. No professional monitoring required!

I suggest checking if equipment you already own like Ring cameras or Wyze sensors integrate for free first before buying anything new. That’s the most cost effective method.

And for remote access, I definitely recommend a VPN service to securely connect whenever away from home. Many are around just $2 a month for basic data protection and encrypted streaming.

Getting Professional Monitoring for Less

If completely removing a monitoring plan makes you feel anxious despite the cost savings, consider a bare bones ADT package or third party dispatcher instead. That meets halfway between monthly commitments and total DIY security.

For starters, the ADT Command plan costs only $34.99 a month but retains live dispatch with emergency responders.

Although you lose mobile access and control without premium account upgrades. This essentially just protects against intruders and fire/medical emergencies.

Alternatively, independent monitoring stations like COPS offer basic signal routing for sensors and alarms at lower prices.

Some plans are around $15 monthly for emergency dispatch only without extras like camera cloud storage. Worth checking for limited needs.

Just know these third parties rely on landline connections rather than cellular. Make sure to compare reputation and backup procedures before relying on them. And have reasonable expectations for the level of response.

Key Takeaways About Managing ADT Without Monthly Fees

Before diving into specifics around ADT subscriptions, it helps to recap guidance from our discussion:

Main Things to Remember

• You can absolutely use ADT equipment without monthly monitoring fees even though certain convenience features will disable.
• Expect a mix of intentionally blocked integrations that require workarounds along with independent functionality retention once professional service stops.
• Lean into WiFi cameras, smart home platforms and direct control apps to maximize standalone usage of sensors, panels and detectors.
• Weigh the pros/cons of avoiding ADT fees to determine if self monitoring or basic third party dispatch better match your risk tolerance.
• Look into complete DIY systems like SimpliSafe if needing extensive whole home protection without monthly commitments.

FAQs

Is it Worth Getting ADT Without The Monitoring?

The short answer is yes – ADT cameras, motion sensors and control panels retain functionality even without subscriptions…but their capabilities become very limited. Ask yourself what you primarily want to maintain before canceling service.

Independent security cameras and door/window sensors tend to provide the most ongoing value from DIY connectivity options after cutting off monitoring.

However, you lose emergency dispatch and some integrations central to the ADT ecosystem without those monthly fees.

So while avoiding another subscription seems financially appealing, determine if you can live without certain capabilities first.

Contentment with limitations and some lost convenience is required to make this money-saving path worthwhile long term.

What Features Won’t Work Without the Subscription?

As mentioned earlier, an ADT system without monitoring loses certain capabilities that the monthly fees enable:

• No professional monitoring services – That means no emergency alarm response or backup support if sensors detect a break-in, fire, medical emergency etc. You won’t have live access to human dispatchers – only DIY notifications.
• Limited app integrations – Expect blocked access on mobile apps for controlling equipment, automation rules, ADT Pulse and more. Retaining cameras is possible but with handicapped features.
• Lost cellular/radio backup – Any ADT devices relying on cellular or proprietary radio signals for primary connectivity won’t route data properly without the monitoring service paying for that privileged network access. Limited to WiFi-enabled equipment only.
• Integration issues with other ADT products – Things like medical and fire monitoring pendants, smoke detector oversight etc are likely to have problems without the monitoring infrastructure tying everything together. More standalone devices retain functionality.

So in short, all capabilities requiring privilege through ADT’s infrastructure disappear without keeping an active monitoring plan.

But independent operation remains possible for equipment relying purely on home internet and apps.

Can I Get ADT Pulse Without Monitoring Fees?

This pops up a lot – people want integrated smart home benefits like ADT Pulse without professional monitoring charges. 

Unfortunately, ADT intentionally limits Pulse access to paying subscribers only. Consider it an extra loyalty perk for those monthly fees more than anything else.

Without a monitoring plan active on your ADT account, expect no functionality from any Pulse panels, apps, or automation programming. Certain conveniences do get held hostage until monthly billing resumes.

Think of it this way – ADT wants to retain some premium features as incentives for keeping monitoring plans active.

Accessing Pulse gives customers more for their money if they pay regularly vs attempting DIY security. So they keep those capabilities restricted.

You can however replicate some of that automated control through other smart home platforms connecting ADT sensors and cameras independently.

It just won’t have the same robust integration level found with Pulse and pro monitoring bundles.

Can I Still Use Adt App If I Cancel?

You can actually continue using the ADT app in limited capacity even if you cancel monitoring service. It allows manual control of security system arming and disarming as well as basic status checks.

However, remote access gets disabled for triggering automation scenes, viewing doorbell cameras live, intrusion alert clips etc.

Basically expect a barebones interface just for minimal functions without the monitoring subscription active.

If wanting to continue accessing cameras through an app or receiving sensor triggered notifications, I suggest reconnecting equipment through third party smart home platforms instead.

For example, tools like IFTTT can activate when sensors left active trigger without needing the actual ADT service.

What Happens When My Adt Contract Expires?

Once your ADT monitoring contract term expires, you essentially shift over to a month to month status.

So as long as you continue paying service fees, your account stays active with no major changes in terms of access or capabilities.

However, if deciding not to renew after that term length, expect ADT to disable numerous integrations associated with your equipment and app.

Cameras may function independently through manufacturer apps while sensors lose professional monitoring capabilities once that contract lapses.

Basically ADT blocks full system control but individual devices retain functionality unless upgrading to a new contract.

Just expect limitations like lost emergency dispatch, cellular backups etc. Essentially ADT discourages canceling service once they already have equipment installed by crippling non-paying accounts.

How Can I Get Out Of My Adt Contract Without Paying?

Canceling your ADT contract mid-term without termination fees comes down to proving either inadequate service delivery or monetary hardship preventing monthly payments.

Document false alarm fines, frequent downtimes preventing use of the system or other ways ADT failed delivering on promises.

Emphasize you shouldn’t pay penalties for discontinuing non-functional security equipment despite best efforts troubleshooting.

If service itself was satisfactory, provide evidence showing financial constraint preventing continuation like job loss, unaffordable medical bills or other unexpected life expenses.

Ask for compassion terminating without cancellation charges due to temporary inability to pay subscription costs until income stabilizes later on.

Timing these discussions is key too – earlier hardship pleas get more sympathy than last minute desperate attempts avoiding imminent collections.

What Happens If I Don’t Pay My Adt Bill?

Discontinued ADT payment eventually triggers collections action and potential credit score impacts, but not before account suspension and equipment disablement.

Initially, you’ll receive courtesy reminders about outstanding balances. But after 30 days without payment, expect service interruption like loss of professional monitoring.

Around the 60-90 day mark of nonpayment, equipment experiences usage restrictions.

If ignoring alerts completely by 120+ days, ADT sends accounts to collections agencies.

That’s when more serious credit score drops occur from reporting missed payments until resolving account balances.

However, retaining usable surveillance cameras or sensors independently remains possible with DIY workarounds despite account suspensions.

Just expect hampered integration with the rest of your disabled system.

Essentially ADT withholds access through account blocks first before pursuing credit destroying measures to regain payment.

So staying communicative about financial constraints goes a long way until resolving balances.

How Long Is A Contract With Adt?

The standard ADT monitoring contract term length is 36 months or 3 years.

However, long term agreements aren’t universally required. Qualified customers able to pay equipment fees upfront can access flexible month to month plans without early termination fees.

But most free install packages incentivize that multi-year commitment to guarantee recupping installation labor costs.

Just understand cancellation, even with contract expiration, triggers usage limitations and blocked integrations for much of the system.

So the contract truly locks you into maintaining monthly payments to retain full functionality rather than strictly being an equipment rental term of 36 months.

Plans automatically continue month to month after 3 years unless deliberately canceled.

How Do I Stop Payment On Adt?

To stop ADT billing, first call about canceling service outright to stop future charges if still under contract.

Provide move or financial hardship context unless after term completion. Confirm no pending payments exist that haven’t processed yet through provided payment methods too.

Bills generated right before termination may still debit accounts even after calling to discontinue.

Secondly, update payment methods on your account to invalid/expired details to guarantee rejection of those final pending charges after cancelation conversations conclude.

Remain vigilant about checking for successful payment withdrawals for the next couple billing cycles too in case adjustments get made.

Lastly, contact your credit card company or bank to put an actual stop payment block specifically for ADT if they circumvent the above.

That way even random account number updates can’t trigger surprise debits.

How Much Does It Cost To Reactivate Adt?

The fees for resuming ADT equipment monitoring depends on previous subscription history, contract status and payment method preferences.

However, average reactivation costs fall around $129 for prepaid annual plans or $10 per month if opting back into monthly payments. Those cover restarting professional monitoring and access to support services.

Additional charges apply for reinstating things like ADT Pulse integration, mobile access to cameras and any hardware reconfigurations needing technician trips.

All told, expect to spend $150-300 to unlock full capabilities again after service suspensions from canceled accounts.

And if previous equipment got removed after stopping service for an extended period, reinstallation Labor and modern device replacement easily exceeds $500+ in many cases.

Attempt reactivation sooner than later once ready to avoid major sticker shock down the road.

What Is Cheaper Than Adt?

Many home security options provide professionally monitored protection for less than ADT’s $36+ monthly plans.

For starters, internet powered camera systems like SimpliSafe offer critical sensor and entryway monitoring starting around $15 per month.

Budget services through big names like Vivint or Brinks Home also beat ADT pricing at comparable tiers.

Self monitoring apps like Ring Alarm and Cocoon skip the middleman for free while still integrating cameras, motion sensors etc.

And supplements like LifeShield connect professionally dispatched help buttons for under $10 monthly in case basic cameras and sensors aren’t enough protection.

How Do I Cancel My Adt Without Calling?

Canceling ADT monitoring without a phone call takes sending written communication to formally request termination.

Physical letters clearly conveying discontinuation wishes eventually processes as avalid cancellation once received and documented.

However, phone verification often still follows to confirm details before finalizing requests.

For quicker response, email ADT customer support teams directly through their website portal for similar contract termination conversations.

This forces documentation of the digital paper trail. Emphasize following written correspondence if phone discussions steer towards retention offers instead of accepting cancellation terms.

No matter what though, expect some kind of live confirmation prior to fully stopping billing and equipment usage restrictions.

So have talking points ready to politely decline service continuation offers when ADT reaches out to “better understand decision factors.”

Can I Use My Adt Equipment Without Monitoring?

Yes, functioning independently from the actual ADT monitoring service is absolutely possible despite certain limits.

For example, security cameras readily connect with other mobile apps for streaming footage after reconfiguring connectivity to point elsewhere.

Sensors also trigger notifications through third-party smart home hubs like Alexa Guard or Samsung SmartThings instead of defunct ADT accounts.

Just don’t expect aspects like emergency signal dispatch, cellular data backups or remote usage through the ADT app still.

And POE filtered wall ports may block outright camera operation without special accommodations. But for the most part, sensors, detectors and camera operation persists by routing through alternate platforms.

Just more DIY management involvement gets required compared to seamless operation under monitoring plans.

Can I Use Blue By Adt Without Subscription?

Unfortunately no – Blue by ADT cameras, sensors and panel integration fully depend on an active monitoring subscription to operate at all. Without one, they essentially deactivate into non-functional equipment.

So unlike standard ADT systems capable of independent integration outside official accounts, Blue hardware intentionally blocks usage outright if you stop paying service fees.

The product line markets itself as DIY friendly and contract-free, but sort of holds capabilities hostage through rigid subscription enforcement tactics unseen even with standard ADT equipment restrictions after cancellation.

It leaves almost no wiggle room for disconnecting professional monitoring but retaining any degree of hardware usability in the process like traditional ADT systems permit in limited capacities.

Conclusion

Reflecting on our central question throughout this discussion – yes, you absolutely can utilize ADT equipment without an ongoing monitoring plan. 

Just anticipate lots of DIY effort reinstating account access, reconfiguring connectivity and finding alternate platforms to route alerts through.

I suggest carefully weighing convenience sacrifices like emergency dispatch against cost savings before deciding.

And leverage WiFi cameras, sensors and smart home hubs to maximize standalone usage.

With reasonable expectations set, you can steer clear of monthly costs and retain helpful components.

Now dig deeper across security options and make the best home protection decision matching needs with budget.