Here I will try to give you a balanced view for you to decide if Vivint is right for you and your home.
Who are Vivint and what do they do?
Vivint used to be called APX Alarm Security Solutions Inc. They were founded in 1999 and provide home security systems. It is listed in Forbes as one of America’s best employers. They offer wireless technology, motion detectors and 24/7 live monitoring. Wireless alarm systems tend to look better and be easier to install and remove.
Here is a list of the specifications of a standard Vivint home security system:
- 1 touchscreen panel
- Vivint Live wireless communication
- 1 electronic door lock
- 1 video camera
- Video surveillance
- 1 key fob
- 12 energy-efficient lightbulbs
- 1 smart thermostat
- 1 small appliance control
- 1 motion detector
- Severe weather alerts
- 3 door/window sensors
- 1 yard sign
- Remote temperature control
- Energy savings
- Free app for remote monitoring
- Additional features available
What do people think of Vivint?
On consumeraffairs.com, Vivint has an average rating of 3.4 stars out of 5, from 1,005 votes. That is a fairly positive outcome that can be relied upon. Here are some comments from this website:
“They really have some interesting stuff. I liked the idea of it all and I decided to let him inside so we could talk numbers. That same day, my system was armed and ready to go…Happy camper!” 5 stars
“Not even a month after I’ve had everything installed, I am having horrible problems with my thermostat. I just had a new ac unit put in a year ago and it would get freezing in my house.” 1 star
“Customer service was quite accommodating” 5 stars
“asking for a 42 or 60 month commitment is just a poor decision even if one can afford it.” 3 stars
From slashgear.com
“There are cheaper ways to piece together security, HVAC and automation systems. Various X10, Z-Wave and ZigBee ranges exist that bypass the monthly service charge, for instance. On the flip-side, you’re pretty much left to your own devices when it comes to installation and maintenance: Vivint has 24/7 monitoring and next-day servicing. The geeks in the audience might sniff at that, but for those who prefer not to spend their time tinkering – or, perhaps, have family members who are more concerned with uptime than pure cost savings – the headache-free Vivint way has definite appeal.”
Pros and Cons
Here is a basic list to help you decide if you want to go ahead and buy Vivint for your home.
Pros |
Cons |
| Wireless systems | Have been known to have an aggressive sales approach |
| No need to drill holes | Monthly monitoring is not cheap |
| You can receive a text or e-mail along with a notification on your panel if the system has been disconnected. | |
| Lifetime warranty | |
| Energy efficient | |
| Easy to relocate | |
| Can include remote control for door locks, thermostat and lighting |
Sources
For more Vivint home automation reviews visit: http://alarm-reviews.net/vivint-reviews/
For Equipment details visit: http://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/apx_alarm.html