Posted on Thursday, November 16th, 2023 | 867 views
A new home security system is crucial to safeguarding your home and involves an understanding of the different alarm sensors and their roles in a overall system will benefit the homeowner.
This article outlines the typical alarm sensors that should be initially set up with a home security system and by familiarizing yourself with these components, you’ll be taking a proactive approach to enhancing your home’s security and peace of mind.
Door and window sensors form the first line of defense in home security. These sensors consist of two parts: one attached to the door or window and the other to the frame. When the door or window opens, the circuit breaks and triggers the alarm.
This sensor does not only detect forced entries but also warns if a door or window is unintentionally left open.
Although your local security tech will be setting up the sensors in the right place for you, it’s important to know that the effectiveness of these sensors relies heavily on their placement. Ideally, every external door and ground-level window should have a sensor installed. Additional sensors can be installed on internal doors to secure sensitive areas like home offices, bedrooms and even drawers and safes.
Motion detectors add another layer of security by detecting movement by specific objects, within a specified area. These sensors use infrared technology to sense changes in heat, indicating the presence of an intruder or unknown person. They are particularly useful in large, open spaces and critical areas like hallways or staircases.
To maximize their effectiveness, motion detectors should be placed in areas where an intruder is likely to pass like through a backyard or across your front porch. On the inside of your home, they can be placed in main hallways, staircases and near doors.
It is important to avoid locations where moving curtains or pets could accidentally trigger the alarm but with most modern motion monitoring systems, pets and familiar faces can be filtered out of the alerts that are recorded and sent to you.
In addition to burglary, home alarm systems should also protect against environmental dangers. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are vital for early detection of fires and gas leaks. These sensors not only save property but more importantly, lives.
Homes in areas prone to extreme weather conditions should consider flood and freeze sensors. These sensors alert homeowners to potential water damage or pipe freezing, enabling quick response to prevent extensive damage.
Glass break sensors detect the frequency of breaking glass, adding an extra layer of protection against window entry. These are especially useful in homes with large glass doors or windows that might be targeted by intruders.
For homeowners seeking advanced security measures, vibration sensors can detect even the slightest vibrations around the home, such as those caused by tampering with windows or doors. This sensor offers early detection, and often before an intruder can gain entry.
These are the basic sensors that come with a home security system setup, but rest assured your local home security professionals will help you better understand them and know how they work. Don’t be afraid to get in touch with them!