Protect America
check_circleverifiedHeadquartered in Austin, Texas, Protect America provides self-installed home security systems, GPS, monitoring services, and automation solutions, and has serviced nearly half a million homes since 1992.
Protect America's monthly fees range from $19.99 to $42.99, and the company provides free equipment with its security services, including a control panel, motion detectors, door sensors, and window sensors.
With an exceptionally low monthly monitoring fee, free equipment, and no upfront fees, Protect America is the leading home security company in the industry. The company has the highest overall rating in the home security industry on BestCompany.com as well as a quality star rating from consumers.
Protect America is one of the most trusted and high-quality security solutions we've seen. Read the company highlights and see Protect America reviews from real consumers below.
The Good
- Protect America Cost
- DIY Installation
- Home Automation Features
- Lifetime Equipment Warranty
- Variety of Home Security Packages
- 24/7 Video Monitoring
- Industry Experience
- Protect America Reviews
Protect America Cost
Protect America's monthly fee ranges from $19.99–$41.99. With these prices, the yearly cost ranges from $239–$503. Protect America's complete cost over the course of the 36-month contract ranges from $719–$1,511.
This price includes 24/7 monitoring, no installation or equipment fees, a price match guarantee, and a locked-in rate. Customers who purchase Protect America's basic home security package will pay $19.99 per month, and customers who purchase the more advanced package with cellular monitoring and remote access to their system will pay $41.99 per month.
The higher cost for the cellular monitoring is due to the increased services and features (such as remote control of a security camera, real-time alerts from motion sensors, and other home automation features) that are not available with landline monitoring only.
$41.99 per month for added features and cellular monitoring is still a competitive price and one of the most affordable offers in the market.
Compared to other do-it-yourself solutions, Protect America prices are very low. Most self-installed security system companies offering free equipment simply make you pay for it in the form of high-cost monthly monitoring services. This isn't the case with Protect America.
Free Protect America Equipment
While other home security system companies offer free equipment, few match Protect America in both the quantity and quality of the free equipment. Protect America equipment cost is absolutely free and includes the following with most of its packages:
- 1 control panel
- 3 door and window sensors
- 1 motion detector
The free door and window sensors have a five-year battery life and can be quickly and easily self-installed. The wireless sensors have a horizontal coverage range of 25 feet and can detect movement by intelligently sensing head emissions. They are pet-friendly, ignoring movement from objects 40 pounds or less.
Protect America equipment cost is completely free and is known for its high quality, beating out the majority of the home security company's competitors.
No Installation Fees
Unlike many other home security companies, Protect America does not charge installation fees. When you sign up for their services, you don't have to risk a burglar targeting your home before you can afford the cost of home security installation. You can get Protect America's protection right away.
Money-Back Guarantee
Protect America offers a 15-day money-back guarantee on all of its products. This gives customers time to test out the company's service and its security system before fully committing to the contract.
DIY Installation
Protect America's home security system is a do-it-yourself solution that takes less than one hour to set up. DIY security systems are convenient because it allows consumers to skip pricey and lengthy professional installations.
Many home security providers require costly professional installation and can take weeks to set up a date and time that works with the customer's schedule. Customers are also likely to be more familiar with the security equipment since they are the ones setting it up.
Many Protect America reviews below reference the quick and simple installation as a major benefit and relief.
Home Automation Features
At less than $20 per month, you typically shouldn't expect your home security package to include home automation features; however, Protect America does include wireless control options.
Through the company's app, customers are able to view camera footage and control their security system, door locks (additional equipment cost) and lights/appliances (additional equipment cost) from a smartphone. Here is a breakdown of Protect America's home automation options:
Protect America Mobile App
Protect America's mobile app gives you control of your home security system from anywhere. From monitoring your entry points and controlling your appliances (garage door, thermostat, lights, and other appliances) to getting 24/7 access to live video of your home, you can stay apprised of your home security at all times and manage your security system with ease.
The app also sends notifications of any security alerts you need to be aware of, such as suspicious activity or system malfunction.
August Smart Lock Pro
The August Lock is a smart lock you can control and monitor from anywhere at any time with the Protect America app. The door lock works with single cylinder deadbolts and similar to other Protect America security equipment, you can easily install it yourself within minutes.
With Protect America's door sensor and smart door lock, you never have to worry about someone entering your home through the door without you knowing, and you don't have to panic when you forget to lock the door; you can track any activity at your doorstep and remotely lock and secure your door immediately with the Protect America app.
This also means you don't have to carry around a home key because you have access to keyless entry with your smart lock. The August Smart Lock Pro is also compatible with Siri, Alexa, and the Google Assistant, so you can use any of these devices to control your smart lock that way if you prefer. Additionally, the August Lock works with Z-Wave Plus systems as well as Bluetooth.
Linear Garage Door Controller
Through the use of your Protect America app or your security system panel, you can remotely open and close your sectional garage door. This makes it simple to come and go quickly and ensures you can close or open the garage door while away from home. Your home never has to be left unprotected.
Z-Wave Light and Appliance Module
The Z-Wave technology module allows you to turn the lights on and off throughout your home as well as dim them. You can do this through the Protect America app or through a web browser. This wireless control gives your home automation more functionality and increased customization.
Amazon Echo Dot Integration
Protect America's home security system is compatible with the Amazon Echo Dot, which enables you to control your Protect America home automation features with the use of your Amazon Echo.
Few home security companies provide such compatibility and universality when it comes to integrating existing home automation equipment with new home security equipment provided by the company.
Lifetime Equipment Warranty
All equipment is covered by a lifetime warranty, meaning Protect America will ship replacement parts for all defective equipment at no charge to the customer. As detailed above, Protect America equipment is also free, including one control panel, three door and window sensors, and one motion detector.
Protect America's alarm system provides monitoring through landline (least expensive), broadband, and cellular communication; it's a rarity for a security company to provide all three of these warranties in the residential security system industry.
This type of superior customer service is another way Protect America has set itself apart from its competition.
Variety of Home Security Packages
Protect America offers multiple home security packages that you can customize to fit your particular needs. Each package includes free equipment, free activation, and professional 24/7 monitoring.
You can also upgrade any package to include smart home automation capabilities. For a customized instant quote, you can contact Protect America through the "Visit Site" button at the top of this profile page. Package details for Protect America's three main home security plans are below:
Copper Package
- Standard control panel
- 3 door/window sensors
- 1 motion detector
- 1 yard sign
- 4 door/window stickers
Silver Package
- Standard control panel
- 9 door/window sensors
- 1 motion detector
- 1 yard sign
- 4 door/window stickers
Platinum Package
- Standard control panel
- 14 door/window sensors
- 1 motion detector
- 1 yard sign
- 4 door/window stickers
24/7 Video Monitoring
Protect America's security cameras have 24/7 live video monitoring. There is also a two-way voice capability service that enables communication on both ends. Read Protect America security reviews below to see what customers have to say about video monitoring capabilities.
Industry Experience
Protect America alarm system has been in business since 1992. Having a home security company that has ample experience in alarm systems and burglar and theft situations can give homeowners peace of mind that their home and family will be in good hands.
Protect America has had decades to develop a home security system and alarm monitoring company that is efficient, trustworthy, and affordable.
Protect America Reviews
Protect America reviews are overwhelmingly positive, awarding them an extremely high star rating from consumers. Protect America reviews highlight exceptional customer service, quality equipment, simple installation, and affordable prices.
Satisfactory reviews for Protect America provide peace of mind that the home security company is respected by the majority of its customers. Protect America users are clearly impressed and happy with its products and services.
The Bad
- 36-Month Contract
- Cancellation Terms
36-Month Contract
Perhaps the least appealing feature of the alarm company for some people is its 36-month contract. However, lengthy contracts aren't unusual in the home security system industry.
A somewhat lengthy contract is much more common for companies that offer low-cost monitoring fees and free equipment as Protect America does. Read Protect America reviews below to see how customers feel about the lengthy contract and the home security provider as a whole.
Cancellation Terms
If customers decide to cancel their contracts before the 36-month term, Protect America requires them to pay the remaining balance. However, this isn't uncommon with home security companies and Protect America offers an extremely low monthly monitoring fee with no upfront fees or equipment costs.
With this in mind, the long-term contract and cancellation terms may not be a problem.
The Bottom Line
With an impressive array of free equipment, affordable monthly monitoring service, zero upfront costs, and a free moving option, the Protect America security system is one of the most affordable security systems on the market today.
Protect America offers an attractive lifetime warranty on its equipment, a full range of monitoring options, as well as extensive home automation features.
Protect America does require a contract; however, contracts are not unusual for home security companies and Protect America's prices are one of the most affordable security solutions in the market. Also, you may feel more comfortable signing a long-term contract after reading the overwhelmingly positive Protect America reviews (shown below).
Protect America security reviews indicate the home security provider beats out most of its competition in terms of value for the price, customer service, and satisfaction.
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User Reviews
Star Rating
2,664 Reviews
Review Breakdown
Sentiment Criteria
I have had this system for 4 years,, recommended by a friend, overall, I liked it. However, I just upgraded my system, in January, 8 months ago, which triggered a new contract of 3 or 5 years . I have been, even prior to upgrading, asking about motion detectors or cameras that alert you if someone/ something is spotted on one of your cameras. I've been told several times, it's not a service that's available. I just called again, about 2 weeks ago, asking about motion detectors, or cameras that can notify and found out they now have them (finally!), for several months now. I would have to upgrade my system again and purchase all new equipment ($800 +, cameras and panel) in order to get that service. When I originally ungraded, why wouldn't they have told me, prior to upgrading, that this type of service would be available soon, to see if I wanted to wait for that to come out? While on the phone asking about this notification service, I had said I wanted something like what Ring offers with notifying with movement, and it was suggested that I buy a Ring system to put in, in addition to my Project America system, as an alternative to getting that notification system and having to pay the $800+ to upgrade with new equipment. I really loved this company prior to this happening and would really like to cancel, but my contract won't allow that unless I buy myself out if it, and with a3 or 5 year contract, it would cost me between $900 to $1600 to do that, depending on the remainder of my contract (that I can't remember how long).
Verified Customer
Great service. Nice people to work with. Easy installation.
Reply from Protect America
Sep 12, 2019
Hi TB, We appreciate your feedback, glad that you had a great customer experience and an easy install. Please let us know if you have any questions
Verified Customer
Fantastic customer service. Great pricing
Reply from Protect America
Sep 12, 2019
Hi Matthew, Thank you for your feedback and glad that you had a great customer experience. Please let us know if you have any other questions.
Verified Customer
After my initial installation, its hard to get someone for assistance, the phones are always busy and leaving a number for call back is being returned when they re about to close. Im disappointed
Reply from Protect America
Sep 12, 2019
Hi Tino, We appreciate your feedback. At Protect America we strive to handle each individual customer with special care and consideration. If you need further assistance please reply via ‘Private Response’ with the name and address associated with the account. A member of the Care team will reach out to you once we can verify you as a customer.
Verified Customer
This company is customer friendly, easy to work with, responsive and very affordable.
Reply from Protect America
Sep 12, 2019
Rebecca, We appreciate your feedback and glad that you had a great customer experience. Please let us know if you have any questions.
Verified Customer
Setup was easy. I feel safe and protected. Unfortunately, the main panel volume is too low. I turned it all the way up. The only resolution was to offer me another product to buy for $100. That was not within my budget considering I just purchased the home security system.
Reply from Protect America
Sep 12, 2019
Hi Rebekah, We appreciate your response and glad that you and your family feel protected. To review your account and go over the options available, please reply via ‘Private Response’ with the name and address associated with the account. A member of the Care team will reach out to you once we can verify you as a customer.
Verified Customer
Completely different equipment shipped than was promised by the representative.
Reply from Protect America
Sep 12, 2019
Hello Mary, Thank you for reaching out to us regarding your equipment shipping. To better assist you, please reply via ‘Private Response’ with the name and address associated with the account. A member of the Care team will reach out to you once we can verify you as a customer.
When you have to cancel the service, they made it almost impossible to do it. I spend 2 months calling and being put on hold for several hours, just to terminate my service.
Reply from Protect America
Sep 06, 2019
Hi Shufang, Thank you for reaching out to us in regards to your account. We were able to pull up your information and it seems like one of our Account team members resolved your inquiry. If you have any further questions please feel free to reach out.
Verified Customer
Delivered what promised on time and were helpfull to install system
Reply from Protect America
Sep 04, 2019
Hi Liigi, We appreciate your feedback! Please let us know if you have any other questions!
Verified Customer
Cameras won''t come online. Malfunction in the window alarm.
Reply from Protect America
Sep 04, 2019
Hi there, Thank you for reaching out to us in regards to your equipment. If you can, please reply via ‘Private Response’ with the name and address associated with the account. A member of the Care team will reach out to you once we can verify you as a customer.
Verified Customer
The system makes me feel much safer, and is quite user friendly. The sensors are very accurate, and I like that I get a message when I arm/disarm the system. It reassures me in a way that makes me feel very secure.
Reply from Protect America
Sep 04, 2019
Hi Jodi, We appreciate your feedback! We're glad the system is user-friendly and most importantly that it keeps you and your family safe and secure. Please let us know if you have any questions.
Verified Customer
just love a good security system with a great price value
Reply from Protect America
Sep 04, 2019
Hi Terrance, Thank you for your feedback! Please let us know if you have any questions.
Verified Customer
The way their customer service attend to your complain and help resolve it in a timely manner is what i appreciate the most.
Reply from Protect America
Sep 04, 2019
Hi Toni, We appreciate your feedback and glad that the Care team was able to have a resolution in a timely manner for you.
Worst company that harass customer when trying to cancel their service. I called 5 times over 1 hour but still Won't cancel it, they never answers the phone. After waiting a long time they say to leave your phone number and they will call you right back when they’re available. They never call back but I was still charged
Reply from Protect America
Sep 03, 2019
Hi Selina, We appreciate your feedback. At Protect America we strive to handle each customer with special care and consideration. To address any questions you may have in regards to your contract, please reply via ‘Private Response’ with the name and address associated with the account. A member of the Accounts team will reach out to you once we can verify you as a customer.
Verified Customer
It went great it was an easy installation the service manager was great
Worst company that harass customer when trying to cancel their service. Won't cancel then contact BBB finally willing to cancel but with extra month charge and hold credit card hostage.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 30, 2019
Hi James, Thank you for reaching out to us in regards to your account. At Protect America we strive to handle each customer with special care and consideration. To address any questions you may have, please reply via ‘Private Response’ with the name and address associated with the account. A member of the Care team will reach out to you once we can verify you as a customer.
The systems internal battery kept dying and they kept charging me to replace the battery which is expensive. So I got fed up and tried to cancel and they made me jump through hoops to do so. They claimed to have called me and said my voicemail was not set up so they could not leave a message, I did not have any missed calls from them and I have had voicemail for years. Then the people on the chat function on their site cant help with cancellations ( how convenient) and said they will have someone call. No one ever called. Then I call customer service again and the person that answers cant help me and says they have to transfer me..I wait on hold forever, and then I leave a call back and no one calls. So frustrated. Buyer beware!
Reply from Protect America
Aug 30, 2019
Hi Dana, We appreciate your feedback and to further assist you with your account if you can, please reply via ‘Private Response’ with the name and the address associated with the account. A member of the Accounts team will reach out to you once we can verify you as a customer.
Installation went well...it took a little longer to put up the motion detector in the corner of the room as suggested by protect America...but great customer support. I would give have given them a 5, but I had to contact customer regarding their app...and I was on hold for quite a bit until I got a rep on the phone who resolved the issue in a few minutes.
Verified Customer
Very easy to install. Very friend and professional account reps.
Verified Customer
easy to use , good value, great customer support, easy to install
Reply from Protect America
Aug 27, 2019
Thank you Carole for your feedback!
The first month having the system the motion sensors kept going off. After reinstalling several new motion sensors we finally got some that worked. Now 3 months later the smoke alarms are now sending out false alarms. The fire department has now come out 4 times for false alarms and say they have had problems with this particular company.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 20, 2019
Hi Bobby, Thank you for reaching out to us in regards to your smoke alarm. We would like to assist you with your equipment. If you can, please reply via “Private Response” with the name and address associated with the account. A member of the Care team will reach out to you once we can verify you as a customer.
5 star review - I have previously rewieved PA negatively as they were not complying with reading our military orders in a location in which their services did not extend, causing us to pay for an unused service. However after my review, Protect America has contacted me privately and has cancelled my services. I am VERY pleased with my most recent customer service experience and would consider restarting services if in a location that is not military housing. Thank you Protect America for listening to my comment!
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Hey Erica - Thank you for your feedback. We understand that moving can be a hassle. When you have a chance, could you please reply via 'private response' with the full name and address associated with your account. We will then reach out to you to correct this matter. Thank you again for your feedback and we apologize for the inconvenience.
I do not like the system someone is still able to get it to my house , with an anti Jammer I have talked to protect America and they seem to not know what that is please please google it before you purchase this. This is an ongoing problem and I don't know what to do but I have lost thousands and thousands of items out of my house they may see it don't work but I got the evidence to prove it I have lost many items even have damage to my home and my furniture and my chandelier Etc he now damaged my stuff when he comes in this is an ongoing problem please please do not purchase this.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 20, 2019
Hi Caston, Thank you for your feedback. We would like to answer any questions you may have in regards to your system. If you could, please reply via 'Private Response’ with the full name and address that is associated with the account. A member of the Care team will reach out to you once we can verify you as a customer. We look forward to assisting you.
If I could give zero stars, I would. This company is a scam and should be shut down. I’ve paid for service for 3 years because I signed a contract under false pretenses (the date of cancellation was changed). The system has never been installed in home and yet I have paid for 3 years! Now I want to cancel this horrible service and I have called 4 times without a call back. Ironically, I’m on hold now for the 5th time because I refuse to wait for a call back. Ugh! Lesson learned - if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 20, 2019
Hi Ati, Thank you for reaching out to us. In order to address any questions you may have in regards to your account and the contract, please reply via “Private Response” with the name and address associated with the account. A member of the Care team will reach out to you once we can verify you as a customer.
Verified Customer
Seems to be a good sound product along with good customer support
Reply from Protect America
Aug 19, 2019
Thank you, Marvin for your feedback! Please let us know if you have any other questions!
Verified Customer
Easy installation, knowledgeable representatives, helpful
Reply from Protect America
Aug 19, 2019
Hi Kerri, We appreciate your feedback and are glad that the DIY process was simple for you.
Verified Customer
They're fair, friendly and quick to respond
Reply from Protect America
Aug 19, 2019
Thank you, Jessica. Please let us know if you have any questions!
Verified Customer
The company has the customer's interest. The technicians are very helpful and go out of their way to make sure the customer is satisfied and that everything is working properly. The security equipment is easy for the user to hook up. It is pretty straight forward, reliable, and affordable.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Thank you, Jean and Cornelius!
Verified Customer
Protect America has really good equipment and it was really easy.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Appreciate the feedback, Rosa!
Verified Customer
The lady was very patient helping me. I can call them anytime. It was easy to install. I hope they keep doing a good job.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Thanks, Tammy!
Verified Customer
Cheaper than the competition and the same quality. They are really prompt and they can answer all the questions I have about it.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Thanks for the kudos, Bonnie!
Verified Customer
The only problem I have with Protect America is when you go online to chat with somebody, they give you a time that they'll be with you and it doesn't happen. Other than that, I like it. The service I get is excellent. I haven't had any problems with the system. The alarm covers my windows and doors and I feel safer with it.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Thank you, Jessica!
Verified Customer
They've been great so far. It is easy to use and easy to put together. They have motion sensors and I love that. I feel confident and safer because of the quality of the service. They're friendly. They care and listen. They really wanted to build the right security for our house.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
You rock, Giselle!
Verified Customer
I feel safer with protect america. They are helpful and courteous.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Thanks, Gerry. Let us know if we can be of any further service!
Verified Customer
One thing they could improve is the cameras. It is priced well and when I call, people answer my questions. Customer service is always available.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Thank you, Ralph. How can we improve our cameras?
Verified Customer
Every time I call in and need their help, they help me. I am still learning how my security system works. I wish they had better sensors and I could set my own interval. It gives me peace of mind, I think it is pretty good quality.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Appreciate the positive feedback, Chara!
Verified Customer
I like that protect America has a flat screen indicator.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Thank you, Dian. Is there anything else we can do to help?
Verified Customer
Seem like they are a reliable company. I've never had the system go down. They are using newer technology than their competitors. I am paying the same amount to get the new equipment. It is really easy to use, they have a mobile app, which is really convenient.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Thank you, Michael!
Verified Customer
The price was right and it is easy to set up. Everything is self install. There is one motion sensor that I don't like.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 13, 2019
Thank you, Souvanh! What about your motion sensor do you not like?
Verified Customer
I was able to get window and door sensors for every window and door in my house so I can be secure when I am in the house or away. The equipment is not as nice as ADT but the price is definitely cheaper so there is some value. The portable key fob is definitely cheaply made. Customer service is excellent. They listen to what you need.
Verified Customer
They need to hire some more people to answer the phones. Their customer service is very knowledgeable but the hold times are not very good. The equipment was easy to install.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 12, 2019
Hey Karen - Thank you for your feedback!
Verified Customer
It appears to be high quality. They've been very attentive so far. I feel secure.
Verified Customer
We liked the price of it and they got it all hooked up. Everything works alright and it is easy to operate.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 12, 2019
Hey Robin & Karen - Thank you for the positive feedback!
Verified Customer
Protect American is convenient and the quality is good. Their staff is very friendly.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 12, 2019
Hey Kevin - Thank you for your feedback. Please do not hesitate to let us know how we can improve our services!
Verified Customer
The best thing is it is simple and easy to use. The set up here is very good, it does the job well. We also like the prices.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 12, 2019
Hey Christopher - Glad to hear that you found the DIY setup process simple and that you feel that our pricing is fair.
Verified Customer
They're great. It is easy to install and I love that I can use the app so if I forget to set an alarm, I can set it from a distance. It makes me feel better that I know if it is on or off. They don't answer their phones every tome you call because you have to hold a little longer than I would like.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 12, 2019
Hey Krista - Thank you for the positive feedback!
Verified Customer
The equipment has the latest touch screens and the value of it is good. They respond to you also.
Verified Customer
They are reliable and it is good quality, it hasn't fallen apart. It gives me peace of mind when I am at home during the day. Their customer support is very patient and receptive and pretty much anything I wanted, they would do for me. I am very frustrated about being locked in a contract.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 12, 2019
Hey Maria - Thank you for sharing!
Verified Customer
I needed a home security system and they seemed convenient. I had trouble installing one of the sensors but so far it's worked perfectly. Any time I've tried t get a hold of Protect America, it has been quick and easy with no problems.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 12, 2019
Hey Karen - Happy to hear that we could be of service!
Verified Customer
Everything was explained to me thoroughly by customer service and that is why I picked them. I had ADT and they were lacking but Protect America seems to be very aggressive and willing to help. There are still there for me and appreciate that. It all works as planned though forty five dollars a month is a little high of a price.
Reply from Protect America
Aug 12, 2019
Thank you, John!