Can you use an alarm system without the service?

Author: Brian Lowe  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Yes, it is possible to get an alarm system without a monitoring company. These types of alarm systems are often referred to as "self-monitored" systems.

Does my alarm need to be serviced?

Overall, it is incredibly important to service your intruder alarm system at least once a year to ensure that your commercial or domestic property is fully protected and that it will respond accordingly to any situation to protect those around you as well as your valuable belongings.

Will my alarm still work if I cancel my ADT service?

Yeah the alarm will still work it just won't dial out for help.

Can I use my alarm system without monitoring?

Without monitoring your system becomes local alarm only. Meaning of you set it when you leave and someone breaks in then the sirens will go off but police will not be notified unless someone calls them.

Can use an ADT alarm without service?

Does ADT equipment work if I cancel the service? You must have an active monitoring subscription with ADT to use the equipment that it provides. Otherwise, you miss out on most of the functionality.

Can I use my ADT alarm system without monitoring and how do I disable monitoring services?

Can I use ADT equipment after cancellation?

Yes. Using the same home security supplies you previously purchased, you can re-establish system monitoring with Blue by ADT.

What is the best home security system without a monthly fee?

In our recent tests, we found that Simplisafe, abode, and Ring Alarm are the top three picks for a no-fee approach.

Do alarms work without service?

An internet outage doesn't prevent contact sensors from sending radio signals to the base station. If your system was already armed when the outage occurred, an open door should still set off the siren. In other words, you may still have a basic alarm.

How much does ADT cost a month?

ADT Pricing vs The Competition

It's all about getting the most value for your money. And in that case, ADT is a clear top choice. Not only does ADT provide good equipment, it also offers good monitoring. The $24.99 to $49.99 that you pay per month gives you access to ADT's monitoring network.

What happens if I stop paying ADT?

If I fail to make any payment when due or to honor any other term or condition of this Contract, ADT may terminate this contract and/or stop providing the alarm monitoring and notification services and repossess or disable the equipment without notice.

Can I use my ADT equipment with another company?

It's important to understand that you can switch home security companies. In most cases, ADT equipment can be used by other alarm companies, including Security Alarm. Let us help you save money by utilizing as much of your existing equipment as possible!

Can I just unplug my ADT system?

Your panel has 2 sources of power: The AC power (where it is plugged into an outlet) and the System backup battery. To fully power down your panel you must disconnect both of these. (Note: Powering down your panel should only be done if it is the last resort.

How much does it cost to cancel ADT?

Upon early termination of 36-month monitoring contract, ADT may charge 75% of the monthly service charges due for the balance of the initial contract term. Quality Service Plan (QSP) is ADT's Extended Limited Warranty and is available for an additional fee starting at $8/mo. for essential product protection.

How much should an alarm service cost?

Annual Service Contracts

This can be a more cost-effective option, particularly for monitored alarm systems. Cost: Annual service contracts typically cost between £80 and £200 per year, depending on the complexity of your alarm system and the frequency of the maintenance visits.

Can I just unplug my alarm system?

Most home monitoring services will automatically dispatch local police if your system loses power. Disconnecting wiring or causing the old system to lose power may set off a false alarm, resulting in an unnecessary emergency response that could land you with a fine.

Do I need internet for my alarm system?

Not all alarm systems require internet access for operation. Some alarm systems run on traditional phone lines or cellular signals, while others require an internet connection through an Ethernet cable, Wi-Fi signal or voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).

Can I use my ADT system without subscription?

Yes, you don't need an ADT Self Setup security system or monitoring plan to use its cameras. You can also use ADT Self Setup cameras without a storage subscription plan. If you need extra storage, you can simply add a microSD card to the Indoor Camera or Wireless Outdoor Camera.

Does ADT offer senior discount?

ADT even gives AARP members a discount up to 20-percent. SimpliSafe and Vivint also cater to seniors with environmental sensors and easy ways to create automated routines so they never forget to lock the front door.

How to get out of an ADT contract?

Can you get out of an ADT contract? Yes, you can cancel your ADT contract anytime by calling customer service at 800-238-2727. Whether you pay penalties or not depends on how many months you have left on your contract.

Does ADT work if Wi-Fi goes out?

ADT Self Setup and ADT Smart Home Security Systems power outage: The ADT Smart Home Hub and ADT Base include a backup battery that last 24 hours. Communications to the ADT Monitoring Centers may still be disrupted in the event of a power outage if your router and internet communications do not also have battery backup.

Do burglars avoid homes with alarms?

Most Burglars Admit Alarm Systems Deter Them

60% of the burglars claimed an alarm would change their minds. “The benefit of a security alarm comes more from deterring crime and limiting loss if a burglary does happen,” says Bill Nelson, owner of Nelson Alarm in Indianapolis.

Are alarm services worth it?

Do Alarm Systems Really Deter Burglars? Yes, security systems do, in fact, deter burglars. One particular study interviewed former burglars, who stated that two of the most prominent reasons they would avoid breaking into a specific home were security cameras and barking dogs. Many burglars are opportunistic.

What is cheaper than ADT?

Best alternative to ADT
  • Vivint: Best for smart homes. Professional alternative. Vivint. 4.5. Starting from$29.99/mo. View Packages. ...
  • SimpliSafe: Best for on a budget. Budget alternative. SimpliSafe. 4.25. Starting from$21.99/mo. ...
  • Frontpoint: Best for doing it yourself. DIY equipment alternative. Frontpoint. 4.25. Starting from$24.99/mo.

Which is better, Ring or SimpliSafe?

Top System for Monitoring — Ring and SimpliSafe

But, SimpliSafe gave us stronger monitoring capabilities with its Core plan offering live guard protection. For the lowest cost option, we recommend Ring. If you want top-tier monitoring that still offers great value, go with SimpliSafe.

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