Browse Alarm Grid Customer Reviews
After accidentally frying my old FBII security system
After accidentally frying my old FBII security system (1990 vintage) I decided to do research on a new system. Google searches led me to Alarm Grid. Their YouTube Videos and website were so well done that I decided to give them a try. I ended up buying the Honeywell Lyric Security system, Honeywell Lyric Round Thermostat and Skybell doorbell cam from Alarm Grid. I also went with the $35 per month monitoring plan.
All the staff there have been exceedingly helpful with very prompt responses plus their website is very well organized and is easy to use.
I have also found them to be very honest and informative.
I recommend them very highly both for purchasing a system and for monitoring. They are great!
While looking for an alarm system for my home
While looking for an alarm system for my home, I decided to look through Yelp reviews to find a good company. After speaking to a rep over the phone he explained it was the system they only sell for do-it-yourself type of alarm to have in your home. Customer service was great in explaing the details, but it was not what I was looking for.
After deciding on a home security system
After deciding on a home security system due to some break-ins in our neighborhood, I kicked my internet search compulsion into high gear. I spent probably 20 or 30 hours looking at all the various options that seem to get a lot of press like SimpliSafe, Canary, Scout, and the other supposed "disruptors" in the business.
What I came away with is a sense that home security systems are very hardware intensive and that the best course of action was to focus on the quality of the hardware and not the hype or allure of some slick Silicon Valley startup company (or Chinese or Taiwanese company).
This led me to Honeywell's range of hardware. Long known as industry leaders (if not THE leader in home security equipment), I settled on their new Lyric system which (unlike Simplisafe, Canary, etc) actually ENCRYPTS the wireless communications between sensors and the control panel. Yes, the hardware is slightly more expensive, but will become the foundation of my complete home automation system (using zWave or HomeKit) and is really slick in terms of its functionality. My only complaint is that the window/door sensors are pretty big and ugly. Hopefully Honeywell will come up with a better solution in the future. (My wife refused to allow me to install them on many of our windows, so I'm relying on glass break and motion sensors instead).
As I was researching the Honeywell equipment I kept running across videos and tutorials on Youtube from some guy calling himself "Sterling from AlarmGrid". The videos were incredibly helpful and really got me over my historically bad feelings for traditional alarm service companies that have always seemed to occupy the same realm as mattress and used car sales companies). Here was a guy (and a company) that was fully embracing the idea of disruption by DIY community and systems, but allowing it to apply to really high quality Honeywell equipment that has historically been "dealer only".
I figured that any company willing to put forward the amount of effort to produce all the consumer training videos was probably passionate about providing great support, and I was RIGHT.
I called and talked to a couple of reps (including Sterling) prior to placing my order and I was very, very impressed with how well organized they are and how helpful they were during the pre-sales process. 100% transparency, no BS sales pitches, and very knowledgeable people.
I placed my order, received it within 5 days, and had the entire Lyric system (including controller, 3 fobs, a siren, 3 motion sensors, 3 glass break detectors and 14 door/window sensors) in about 3/4 of a day from start to finish. I went online, scheduled my activation and by 6pm that same day my system was fully activated with central monitoring, TotalConnect 2.0 web access and mobile app access on iPads and iPhones. The rep who helped me with the activation (Joe G.) was amazing; he was thorough & methodical, but allowed me plenty of time to answer questions and walk me through anything that I found confusing.
Bottom line, these guys are amazing and deserve your business if you want a monitored alarm system and want a DIY approach. (Or if you already have a system in place and want to add monitoring). What you spend on hardware will depend on the complexity of your system and the features you want - it could be as little as a few hundred dollars, or a few thousand, but its an investment that should last many, many years.
Update
Update: Its been about 3 years since I started service with Alarm Grid. I cannot say enough about the professionalism and customer service for the crew at Alarm Grid. Connie, Joe, and Sterling are very knowledgeable and have always been very helpful. From the initial purchase, to the install, to the programming, everything was orchestrated perfectly. I was using another company for my primary home but was so impressed with the service at Alarm Grid, I actually have chosen to pay a bit more and moved all services over to Alarm Grid. Great service and attention to detail. What more can you ask for? 5 stars, without reservation.
Dave R.
Colorado and Florida
I have used ADT at several other properties
I have used ADT at several other properties and never had a good experience with their installation or service. I decided to try using Alarm Grid instead, and it has been great. Installing the system was not hard, and Alarm Grid's tech support is incredible. The few times I had a question, I called and spoke directly to very knowledgeable techs who helped me resolve the problems immediately. Activation of monitoring was easy and the lack of a contract is a relief. I'll be using Alarm Grid for all my properties!
I don't often take time to write reviews
I don't often take time to write reviews, but in the case of Alarm Grid, I really feel compelled to review. I spent months on end investigating alarm systems. Took a break for a couple months then resumed. The one constant during my research was that I was drawn to Alarm Grid. I wound up purchasing the Honeywell Lyric system and I am absolutely pleased with my decision. Before making the purchase, made multiple calls to Alarm Grid to get clarifying info on my research. They were always patient during my query calls.
After the purchase and during configuration of the devices their support staff provided A+ assistance. I am fortunate to have found them and highly recommend for DIY'ers.
I purchased and installed a security system from Alarm Grid
I purchased and installed a security system from Alarm Grid 3 1/2 years ago (May, 2013) and both the system and the service from Alarm Grid has consistently exceeded my expectations every day since then.
My system consists of a Honeywell L5100 system, wireless door and window sensors, carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and 2 environmental sensors (water and temperature.)
Installation was a breeze. The wireless sensors were very easy to install and test. I was concerned about battery life, but my concerns were groundless. In 3 1/2 years I have only had to replace a couple of batteries - most sensors are still on their original battery. I installed recessed door sensors for asthetics and recommend buying a good (~$20) drill bit if you are drilling above a door as a less expensive spade bit is difficult to use in this location.
I installed both wi-fi and backup cellular communications, and these have worked flawlessly. When I experienced a lengthy internet outage the cellular system took over and the system continued to monitor and report events. (I receive a text every time the system is armed or disarmed, so I know that communications continued.)
My system includes a zwave controller, and this is the heart of my home automation system. I installed several zwave switches and outlets and have the system set to turn lights on when there is an alarm. I also used this automation to turn lights on and off when we are out of town. With the web interface I have changed the schedule from remote locations - even other countries - as long as I have internet access.
I included the environmental sensors just because I could, and they literally paid for the system. I put one in the laundry room and one by the water heater in a closet off the garage. I had a water alarm one morning about an hour before we were leaving on a 2 week international vacation. The washing machine hose had sprung a small leak and the alarm went off when there was about ΒΌ cup of water on the floor. I was able to turn off the water and avoid a water leak while we were gone for 2 weeks - definitely saving me more than the total system cost. Later there was a leaking valve at the water heater, which again triggered an alarm with very little water - allowing me to take action before any damage occurred. Finally, the temperature alarm went off one morning on the coldest day we had in Atlanta in more than 30 years. The alarm went off when the closet temperature dropped to 45 degrees (the garage is unheated) giving me time to take action to prevent frozen pipes. (No action was needed as the alarm went off at 6 AM after the coldest part of the night was past. Extreme cold does not last long in Atlanta.) Bottom line is the system gave me peace of mind.
The service from Alarm Grid is unparalleled. They helped me configure the system and connect to the monitoring center. They are a small company, and monitoring is done with a larger company that is well staffed around the clock - calling quickly when there is an alarm or even for a low battery indicator. I only called Alarm Grid a couple of times - usually when my credit card number changed, and was very satisfied with each interaction. No contract is required for monitoring - service is month by month. Good customer service is rare today, with the great customer service from Alarm Grid being one of the exceptions.
I recommended Alarm Grid to a neighbor and he has been very pleased with them as well. If you are considering an alarm system I strongly recommend Alarm Grid. With their guidance virtually anyone can install a good security system.
Just activated my lyric alarm system monitoring
Just activated my lyric alarm system monitoring with them on Friday. Wonderful experience so far that exceed my expectations. Great support via phone, email, their website, and the videos Sterling makes. They may charge a little more for their equipment but it is well worth it to guarantee a seamless self installation and activation
Been with AlarmGrid for over a year
Been with AlarmGrid for over a year. Started out with a basic package and developed a smart house with cameras later on.
The best part of having all of these wonderful gadgets and protection is... No contracts or large bills to pay labor for having the system installed. The staff at AlarmGrid provides excellent customer service and technical support.
For less than other major alarm companies, with AlarmGrid I get peace of mind knowing I can tap in anytime and check out what's going on with the animals, household temperature, and lighting.
I made an investment when I purchased my first house to have it the way I wanted... High-tech! And the investment has already paid itself off. Energy bills are much lower since everything is on a schedule. I don't even touch light switches anymore! No rushing around or thinking about what to turn off before leaving home. "Arm Away" and everything shuts off and thermostat enters energy efficient mode. At 4:45pm, the thermostat turns back on so the house is comfortable for arriving home from work. If a burglar or fire alarm triggers, all the lights come on inside and out.
Sterling Donnelly and his team came to my rescue
Sterling Donnelly and his team came to my rescue when my wifi needed to be rebooted and I was away from my home for several months. I was not able to preform this task. Through Sterling and his team they were able to implement their expert technical skills and got me up and running. I used them before for technical advise and is comforting to know they are only a phone call away.Sterling I thank you and your staff for your help.
Sebastian DeMarco, a very satisfied customer
Alarmgrid has just made it easy to sign up and stay active
Alarmgrid has just made it easy to sign up and stay active.
The signup process was very easy as well as hooking up my alarm system to them. They even helped me add/remove sensors remotely without having an alarm technician come to my home which is VERY cool.
So far they've been working great with our Amdeco alarm panel which had internet connectivity and hooked into my old wired system. We also added a wireless adapter and have wireless smoke, motion and door open detectors. They have worked great and in one instance we had the fire brigade at our door within 5minutes of a smoke alarm going off. They are diligent and very responsive. They even helped us make changes to our alarm system remotely like adding new components rather than having to call a technician.
Sterling has always given prompt and expert service
Sterling has always given prompt and expert service. He's worked me through configuration changes as I have added zones to my alarm system, and has a wealth of practical knowledge that can get a system configured in an optimal way.
I have enough experience with kids triggering the alarm, and power outages, to know that the monitoring service provided by Alarm Grid is highly responsive and professional.
It's great to be able to pay a reasonable price for a top-notch personalized service.
My family was in the market for a better alternative
My family was in the market for a better alternative to the expensive monitoring companies. I began doing my research, and was initially going with another company, however they didn't offer the next generation hardware. I opted for Alarm Grid for that reason, and am exceedingly glad that I did. These guys have consistently been top-notch. They are very prompt, professional, and are great at what they do. I got my system quickly, and it set up easily with the YouTube videos they provide. I got scheduled to get the system registered with them, and they were able to accommodate an earlier opening I had to come available. They were patient, helpful and courteous through the registration process. Alarm Grid has since emailed the certificate to my insurance company. I honestly can't say enough great things about Alarm Grid. Thanks Sterling, Frank, and Connie!
Alarm Grid came to my rescue
Alarm Grid came to my rescue after I bought a Honeywell Lynx 5200 system from Amazon. I had understood that this was a self monitoring system that I could connect to my Wifi and it would send me notifications via text. Boy was that not the case. I spent hours trying to configure it.
After contacting Alarm Grid they set me straight. I spoke with Sterling who was very generous to set me up right then and there. It turns out that the system requires some type of connection to the Honeywell servers. Alarm Grids self monitoring service does this for only $10 a month, and no contracts!
I'm 57 so I've been around a while. It is so nice to call a company and get fantastic customer service. It is so rare these days. Either through email or over the phone, Alarm Grid was exceptional in helping me out. I'm so glad I found them and I highly recommend them to anyone with any alarm system.
I was disappointed at first when I had presale questions
I was disappointed at first when I had presale questions and was referred to the community forums and public information rather than getting real time verbal information. However, when they heard of my discontent, I got a personal phone call and an apology from them and we determined that it was a misunderstanding. Consequently, They answered my questions and all is well. They are very helpful people and will likely monitor the security system that I am assembling.
In researching security systems
In researching security systems, equipment, and options online, Alarm Grid often appeared in searches via Google and, having now worked with them to install and establish monitoring of our system, it is apparent why they are present in all of these searches. The articles and information on their website have been a tremendous help in understanding all of the critical pieces of a security system. The advice in the articles was always presented in a non-biased manner; other websites always seemed to be trying to selling you something, first, and providing information a distant second. With the information on Alarm Grid's website, I was able to select, purchase, and install all of the components necessary to monitor a 4,350 sq-ft house. Based on this positive experience during installation, I selected Alarm Grid for monitoring, as well... and I am glad I did. Having been convinced they employ robust monitoring/central station technology, I was happy with the broad selection of monitoring plans that are priced very competitively and fairly (with no contracts/extra fees!). Response and activation upon ordering was prompt, courteous and professional. The activation went very smoothly... and the end result was a security system with all of the features I was hoping to achieve. As an added (and perhaps most-important!) bonus: my wife finds the system easy to operate and feels very confident it will protect the house and family.
Alarm Grid provided excellent support
Alarm Grid provided excellent support to me on a commercial project that involved an IP and cellular backup connection, as well as a host of wired and wireless detectors. This was my first experience with Honeywell panels and i could not have done it without their great support. The customer uses Alarm Grid's monitoring service and is pleased with the system, and particularly likes the Android and iPhone apps for the system.
I like the fact that I can install an advanced system knowing they have my back when i need support!
Our old wired security system's motherboard bit the dust recently
Our old wired security system's motherboard bit the dust recently, and I began to research my options. Luckily, I found Alarm Grid. I was very impressed with the videos that Sterling has done on youtube. So I purchased a Lyric system from Alarm Grid. Sterling saved me a lot of time, money, and aggravation by recommending the purchase of the 5800C2W which allowed me to reuse almost all of the wired sensors that were already installed in the house. If you use the 5800C2W, I highly recommend watching Sterling's video. You'll then understand the quirks of linking it to a Lyric system. Activation and registration for self-monitoring with Total Connect 2.0 through Alarm Grid could not have been easier. In the end Alarm Grid is outstanding for the DIYer that wants to use the best Honeywell can offer in security systems.
Alarm Grid changed my opinion about having an alarm system
Alarm Grid changed my opinion about having an alarm system. My previous experiences were the nightmares you have read about before with the big names in the industry. After going with an inactivated alarm system for over a year my wife decided it was time to get it going again. I refused to do what we had done multiple times before and regretted each time.
I started with a house that had an alarm system wired up with a dead battery, POTS-only monitoring capability, and an installer code that the previous company refused to give me. I got on AlarmGrid.com and selected what I thought would be the best configuration to throw that junk away and start with a new system using the existing sensors. I filled my cart with components and submitted my order. It didn't take very long before they contacted me about an extra component that it did not look like I would need to make my system work. They could have just let the extra stuff ship to me and gotten more money, but they were more interested in ensuring I had a good customer experience.
Before the components arrived I had email waiting for me indicating what information would be needed to activate monitoring and a request to schedule an activation appointment. Everything arrived in obviously brand new condition and well packaged.
When the new control panel arrived I wired it up per the instructions and followed the install guide to configure the sensor names that I had on my system. I had the un-monitored system setup within a few hours just by following the instructions that came with the control panel.
The appointment to setup monitoring was very, very simple. Basically you sit on the phone, hit a sequence of buttons on a control pad, and then test the system. It doesn't get any easier than that. We were up and running in no time with Internet and cellular monitoring.
The central monitoring station has been top notch. We have gotten a few calls within the correct SLA after an alarm has been triggered. We even had police dispatched on one alarm trip. After we checked the camera and realized the house cleaners were there early we were able to call the 1-800 number and cancel the police dispatch which helped avoid irritating our local constable.
We love using the Honeywell TotalConnect app on our phones to be able to arm or disarm the alarm away from home. This has been very convenient for house cleaners, service providers, house showings (we are for sale right now), and the odd times we forgot or were unsure if the alarm was set or not. The app might be a tiny bit slow, but that does not seem to at all be the fault of Alarm Grid. It gets the job done if you are willing to wait the 5 or so seconds to receive confirmation that your request was processed properly.
After the system was installed we decided to monitor our overhead garage door. We didn't want it to alarm, but we wanted to tell if it was open or not without going to check. We can even check if it is open when we are away from home using our smart phones. We spent a few bucks on an overhead door sensor and got it configured in no time to turn off our ready light when it is open and display as a fault, but to not set off the alarm when it is open. Alarm Grid answered the phone (a human after a few button presses) and helped ensure this was configured properly--for free. I think it cost me about $25 (in hardware only) to make this change to my system. Get a quote for that from the big guys!
A few times a wireless bridge in my setup has gotten unplugged and I have received notification emails to double-check my Internet connection. This has been an encouraging, reassuring reminder that although I installed the alarm myself I am not on my own...I am just without an enslaving contract. After about 18 months as a customer my monthly recurring charge of exactly $30 has never gone up by even a penny. The only time it was not $30 was when it was free because I referred a co-worker (who was also happy with Alarm Grid).
A few parting notes: Check their YouTube channel for a lot of helpful videos. Don't be afraid to ask for help over email or phone...you will get a pretty quick response that is helpful and not condescending. You might be able to use your existing control panel hardware (my co-worker was with a slight modification).
After being burglarized...
After being burglarized, we reluctantly decided that the risk was great enough to justify an alarm system. Looked at several options, and Alarm Grid's online presence convinced me that, 1.I could do this myself and end up with a system tailored to our needs, and 2. We could save money in the long run.
I used Alarm Grid's online tutorials to learn more about security systems than I ever hoped to, but it's a hard would out there, and the alternative isn't pretty. The one time I couldn't find what I was looking for, a quick call to Alarm Grid got me the answer right away.
These guys are smart, patient and reasonably priced. I definitely recommend Alarm Grid to anyone shopping for a DIY system, or monitoring services.
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