We got an HR20 sent directly to us in a box as a replacement for a failed HR10-250 under the D* Protection Plan. No charge, no install, no 5 LNB dish (we don't need the 5LNB yet, anyway-we get digital locals just fine on our antenna).
It took me about fifteen minutes total to unbox and 'self install' the thing because it just went in in place of the HR10. Customizing the programming and channels, and learning to work the thing took much longer, but the wiring, multiswitch, etc., were identical sans 5 LNBs and MPEG5.
Other than this method or a store purchase, I'm not sure they want you to 'self install.'
Definitely, if you are getting the 5 LNB dish or you are a D* install rookie, you WANT them to install it for you, I'm thinking.