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Can you use ADT system without monitoring? Yes, you absolutely can use your ADT security system without paying for professional monitoring.
I found this out after my family suffered financial hardship and could no longer afford the monthly monitoring fees.
It was an incredibly stressful time wondering how we could protect our home.
After doing research, I was relieved to learn our ADT equipment could operate unmonitored.
In this post, I will explain everything you need to know about using an ADT system without monitoring.
I’ll share how to self-monitor your system along with pros, cons, equipment needed, and costs so you can make the right decision for your home.
Many homeowners invest in ADT home security systems for the peace of mind that comes with professional monitoring.
However, there may be times when you want to use your ADT system without paying monthly monitoring fees.
The good news is that you can absolutely use your ADT alarm system without professional monitoring.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using an ADT system without monitoring, including:
- Pros and cons of self-monitoring
- How to take over monitoring yourself
- Tips for getting the most from your unmonitored system
- Equipment needed for self-monitoring
- How much you can save by eliminating monitoring fees
- Security alternatives to complement DIY monitoring
After reading this guide, you’ll understand your options for using your ADT system on your own terms to protect your home without monthly fees.
Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
| Using an ADT System Without Monitoring | |
|---|---|
| Pros | Save money on monthly fees, take control of your system, customize monitoring |
| Cons | No professional monitoring, you must monitor system yourself |
| How To | Arm and disarm system yourself using control panel or ADT app, add cameras and other devices, enable push notifications |
| Equipment Needed | Existing ADT equipment, smart devices for notifications and remote access |
| Cost Savings | $30-$50 in monthly monitoring fees |
| Security Alternatives | Add security cameras, video doorbell, smart locks, home automation |
Pros and Cons of Use Adt System Without Monitoring
Going without professional monitoring for your ADT system comes with both advantages and disadvantages.
Understanding these can help you decide if self-monitoring is right for your home security needs.
Pros of Unmonitored ADT Systems
- Save money – Eliminating monthly monitoring fees that range from $30-$50 per month can lead to significant savings each year.
- Take control – With no monitoring center involved, you decide when to arm, disarm, and make changes to your system.
- Customize monitoring – Tailor monitoring and alerts to your specific needs rather than relying on a third-party monitoring service.
- Flexible access – Use your system anytime without worrying about triggering false alarms.
Cons of Unmonitored ADT Systems
- No professional monitoring – You won’t have a monitoring center to contact authorities in the event of an alarm or emergency.
- Self-monitoring is required – Without monitoring fees, you must be willing to monitor the system yourself and respond to any alarms.
- No cellular backup – Monitored systems often come with cellular backup to maintain operation during internet and power outages.
- May deter less crime – Burglars may be less deterred knowing the system is unmonitored.
- No licensing discounts – In some states, a monitored system qualifies you for discounts on homeowner’s insurance.
Carefully weigh the pros and cons when deciding between professional monitoring and self-monitoring.
Be sure you are comfortable taking on monitoring duties if you disable professional monitoring.
How to Use Adt System Without Monitoring: 4 Steps
Using an unmonitored security system still provides many of the same benefits as a monitored system.
You simply take over the role of the monitoring center in watching the system and responding to alerts.
Follow this step-by-step guide to self-monitor your ADT system without monthly fees.
Step 1: Arm and Disarm Your System
With a monitored system, the monitoring center takes care of arming and disarming your system remotely.
Without monitoring, you’ll need to arm and disarm your ADT alarm yourself via the control panel or ADT app each time you leave or enter your home.
Be sure to choose the correct arming mode depending on whether you are home or away.
Also, carefully enter your alarm code so you don’t accidentally trigger the alarm sirens.
Step 2: Manage System Settings
One benefit of eliminating monitoring is that you can fully customize system settings, schedules, and preferences without relying on the monitoring center.
Take time to configure the ADT system to align with your lifestyle and security needs.
Common settings to review include:
- Alarm modes (stay, away, vacation, etc)
- Sensor and zone descriptions
- Entry and exit delay times
- Alarm schedules for different days and times
- Alert settings and notifications
- System test options
Step 3: Add Cameras and Devices
Most ADT systems support adding security cameras, video doorbell cameras, smart locks, and other devices.
These devices can complement your primary system and enhance unmonitored operation.
For example, a video doorbell allows you to remotely see who is at your door.
Smart locks mean you don’t have to disarm the system when family members come home.
Security cameras provide visual verification when your system detects activity.
Step 4: Receive Remote Alerts
A key part of self-monitoring your ADT system without monitoring fees is configuring it to proactively notify you of events.
This allows you to monitor activity and alarms even when you aren’t physically at the control panel.
Ways to get remote alerts include:
- Push notifications through the ADT app
- Text message and email alerts
- Alerts to networked smart speakers
- Integration with home automation platforms
Set up remote alerts through the ADT app or control panel so you can monitor your system status from anywhere.
Equipment You Need for Unmonitored Use
Using your ADT system without monitoring mainly relies on the existing control panel and sensors that are already installed in your home.
However, you may want to add some additional devices to enhance your system’s capabilities for self-monitoring.
Existing ADT Equipment
Your existing ADT system provides the core components needed for unmonitored operation:
- ADT command panel – Acts as the brains of the system to control operation, settings, and alerts.
- Security sensors – Detect activity, entry points, smoke, carbon monoxide, floods, and other events.
- Alarm sirens – Loud sirens deter intruders and alert you if the alarm is triggered.
- ADT yard signs and window decals – Continue using these even without monitoring to deter crime.
Smart Devices
Consider adding smart devices to expand the functionality of your ADT system:
- Outdoor and indoor security cameras – Let you visually verify activity.
- Video doorbell cameras – See who is at your door without disarming the system.
- Smart locks – Unlock for family without disarming system.
- Smart speakers – Provide voice alerts and allow voice control of the panel.
- Hubs – Allow you to control the ADT panel and other smart devices from one app.
How Much You Can Save
One of the biggest reasons homeowners choose to self-monitor their ADT systems is to avoid monthly monitoring fees.
Monitoring plans for ADT typically range from $30 to $50 per month.
By disabling professional monitoring, you can save an average of $360 to $600 per year.
Over time, you could potentially save thousands on monitoring costs by using your ADT system unmonitored.
Savings will depend on the monitoring plan you currently have and the monitoring rates in your geographic area.
Talk to ADT to determine your exact monthly monitoring rate and calculate projected annual savings.
Security Alternatives to Complement DIY Monitoring
While your ADT system provides robust security capabilities out of the box, you may want to supplement it with additional devices and strategies when self-monitoring without professional support.
Smart Home Technology
Integrating your ADT system with smart home technology allows for seamless control and enhanced monitoring functionality through a single platform.
Some options include:
- Smart locks – Yale, Kwikset, Schlage
- Video doorbell cameras – Ring, Nest, Arlo
- Indoor security cameras – Nest, Arlo, Wyze
- Smart speakers – Amazon Echo, Google Home
- Home automation hubs – Samsung SmartThings, Amazon Alexa Guard
Lighting and Activity
Strategically using lighting and activity can help deter crime and complement your self-monitored system:
- Install smart lights and program random lighting schedules when away
- Enable “away mode” settings on TVs and smart lights to mimic activity
- Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway, take in mail/packages, and turn on lights
- Keep landscaping neat and bushes trimmed to eliminate hiding spots
Signage and Deterrents
Make it clear your home is protected, even without professional monitoring:
- Use ADT yard signs and window stickers
- Post security camera signage around your property
- Install driveway alarms and sensors to detect activity
- Keep dogs in the home to deter intruders with barking
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use My Alarm System Without Monitoring
Yes, you can absolutely use your ADT alarm system without paying for professional monitoring services.
ADT systems are designed to provide security whether self-monitored or professionally monitored.
Without monitoring, you take over responding to alarms yourself rather than relying on a monitoring center to dispatch help.
You can arm and disarm the system using the control panel or ADT app and configure settings like entry/exit delays, notifications, and alarm modes.
Self-monitoring your ADT system allows you to customize monitoring aligned with your needs.
However, you lose benefits like emergency dispatch, cellular backup, and potential insurance discounts.
Carefully weigh the pros and cons when deciding between professional and self-monitoring.
What Is The Difference Between Monitored And Unmonitored Adt
The main difference between monitored and unmonitored ADT systems is that monitored systems have a professional monitoring center that watches for alarms 24/7 and can dispatch emergency responders.
With unmonitored ADT systems, you take over all monitoring duties yourself.
When an alarm is triggered, you directly receive mobile alerts and notifications to respond.
Other differences include:
- Monthly fees – Monitored systems require $30-$50 in monthly monitoring fees. Unmonitored systems have no monthly fees.
- Customization – Unmonitored systems allow you to fully customize settings and monitoring. Monitored systems rely on the monitoring center’s protocols.
- Emergency dispatch – Monitored systems can call emergency responders to your home. Unmonitored requires you to call for help.
- Insurance discounts – Monitored systems may qualify you for discounts on homeowner’s insurance. Unmonitored systems likely do not.
FAQs
Can I Just Unplug My Adt System
It is not recommended to simply unplug your ADT system if you want to disable monitoring.
You should formally cancel monitoring services through ADT and then can continue using the system unmonitored in self-monitoring mode.
Unplugging the system may trigger tamper alerts and other malfunctions. ADT may also continue charging monthly fees if the service is not formally canceled even though the system is unplugged.
To properly stop ADT monitoring, call ADT or speak to an online representative.
Confirm cancellation effective immediately and that no early termination fee will be charged.
Then follow best practices for using the system in unmonitored mode.
Can I Use Adt Equipment With Another Company?
In most cases, ADT equipment can only be used with ADT monitoring services.
The system communicates on proprietary ADT frequencies to specialized monitoring centers.
However, some security companies may be able to utilize existing ADT security sensors and connections.
After canceling ADT service, ask other providers if they can take over your equipment. You may need to pay reprogramming fees.
An option is switching monitoring to a compatible DIY home security provider that allows you to self-monitor sensors using their mobile app and smart home platform. This avoids changing out equipment.
What Is The Difference Between Monitored And Unmonitored Adt?
The main difference between monitored and unmonitored ADT systems comes down to who is responsible for monitoring the system and responding to triggered alarms.
With monitored ADT systems, trained professionals at an ADT monitoring center watch for triggered alarms 24/7.
They can listen to activity via system microphones and dispatch emergency responders.
Unmonitored ADT systems shift alarm monitoring duties to you, the homeowner.
When your system detects a trigger event, you directly receive mobile alerts and must take action yourself rather than relying on the monitoring center.
Other differences include monthly fees (only with monitored), emergency dispatch, insurance discounts, and ability to customize settings and monitoring.
Can You Have An Alarm Without Monitoring?
Yes, you can absolutely have a home security alarm system without paying for professional monitoring.
Eliminating monitoring fees saves money, and you can take over monitoring the system yourself.
Without monitoring, your security system effectively operates in self-monitoring mode.
When it detects an intruder or other security event, the system sounds on-site alarms and sends alerts to your smartphone or tablet rather than a monitoring center.
You can arm and disarm an unmonitored system yourself and customize settings like notifications.
However, you lose 24/7 professional monitoring and emergency dispatch capabilities.
How Do You Get Around An Adt Alarm?
It is not recommended to attempt bypassing or disabling your ADT alarm system. Doing so leaves your home vulnerable to intruders and burglars.
Instead, speak to ADT about formally canceling your monitoring contract if you wish to disable professional monitoring services and take over monitoring the system yourself.
Never attempt to destroy or remove ADT equipment from your home.
If you want to allow family members access without triggering the alarm, add them as authorized users who can disarm the system with their own code.
You can also adjust entry/exit delay times to give them more time to enter the home and disarm the system.
Can I Use My Adt Equipment Without Service?
Yes, you can use your existing ADT security equipment without maintaining ongoing monitoring service.
ADT systems are designed to function in self-monitoring mode for owners who want to avoid monthly monitoring fees.
Without professional monitoring, you take over responding to sensor triggers and alarms yourself through the control panel and mobile app alerts.
You can fully configure the system to align with your schedule and security needs.
Just be prepared to self-monitor the system and willing to respond to alarms yourself rather than relying on a monitoring center for emergency dispatch.
Formally cancel services through ADT before using the system unmonitored.
Can Someone Else Monitor An Adt System?
Unfortunately, only ADT has access to monitor your ADT home security system.
The equipment uses proprietary wireless signals to communicate with ADT monitoring centers.
However, you have a couple options if you want someone other than ADT to monitor your home:
- Self-monitor – Cancel ADT monitoring and self-monitor your system using the ADT mobile app. Alert additional family members or friends when alerts occur.
- New system – Install a new DIY home security system that allows third-party monitoring services or self-monitoring. Then cancel ADT services.
While you cannot transfer ADT monitoring to another company, you can take over monitoring yourself or install separate equipment that gives you flexibility.
Do You Keep Equipment If You Cancel Adt?
Yes, you keep your ADT security equipment when you cancel monitoring services, and you can continue using the system without ADT.
All control panels, keypads, sensors, motion detectors, cameras, and other gear remain in your home.
ADT does not reclaim installed equipment after cancellation. However, they likely will not completely remove the system either unless you pay an uninstall fee.
It is safe to keep using the existing equipment yourself in self-monitoring mode.
Just be sure to formally cancel monitoring with ADT customer service so you are not charged ongoing monthly fees.
The equipment is then yours to continue utilizing without ADT.
Does Adt Call The Police When An Alarm Goes Off?
For monitored ADT customers, yes – ADT will call the police if your alarm goes off. That is a key benefit of professional monitoring.
The 24/7 monitoring center will first try to contact you and listen in on any activity. If they cannot reach you or determine it is an emergency, they will dispatch police based on local protocols.
With unmonitored systems, ADT is not involved so they will not contact police when your alarm goes off.
You must call emergency responders yourself after getting mobile alerts of a triggered alarm.
Can You Take Adt Equipment If You Move?
Typically, ADT equipment is permanently installed and stays with the home when you move.
For example, keypads are wired into the walls, and sensors are screwed in place. Trying to remove this equipment yourself is difficult and damages the home.
However, you can pay ADT to remove the existing system and re-install it in your new home for an additional fee.
They can expertly take out wiring and components and get the system up and running in the new property. Just be sure your new home is in an ADT service area.
If you don’t want to relocate the system, the safer option is leaving it behind and installing new equipment from ADT or another provider after you move.
Does Adt Monitor Your Cameras?
For standard home security packages, ADT does not directly monitor any security cameras or video doorbells you add to your system.
The cameras are available for you to view footage and receive mobile alerts when motion is detected.
However, ADT does offer an upgraded “Video Monitoring Service” for an additional monthly fee.
With this service, an ADT professional actively monitors your cameras and can dispatch emergency responders if they visually identify a threat.
Without video monitoring service, ADT will not view or respond to footage captured by your security cameras.
The cameras effectively operate in self-monitoring mode like the rest of your system.
Conclusion
ADT home security systems are designed to provide robust protection with or without professional monitoring.
By taking over monitoring duties yourself, you can save substantially on monthly costs while still enjoying many of the same system features.
With some effort to configure optimal settings, add complementary devices, and respond promptly to alerts, you can achieve effective home security without monitoring fees.
Just be sure you are comfortable taking on monitoring responsibilities before discontinuing professional monitoring services.