A Beginner’s Guide to Installing Motion Sensors in Your Home
When it comes to home security, one of the most effective tools available are motion sensors. These devices can detect movement in your home and alert you to potential intruders. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about installing motion sensors in your home.
1. Choose the Right Type of Motion Sensor
Before you start installing motion sensors, it’s important to choose the right type of sensor for your needs. There are two main types of motion sensors: passive infrared (PIR) sensors and microwave sensors.
- PIR sensors: These sensors detect changes in heat and are the most commonly used type of motion sensor for home security.
- Microwave sensors: These sensors send out microwave pulses that bounce off objects in the room to detect movement.
Both types of sensors have their own advantages and disadvantages, so make sure to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs.
2. Determine the Best Locations for Sensors
Once you’ve chosen the type of sensor you want to use, it’s time to determine where to place them. The best locations for motion sensors are areas where intruders are likely to enter your home, such as near doors, windows, and other vulnerable points of entry.
Make sure to also consider areas where pet movement can trigger false alarms. You can set up zones on some sensors to exclude smaller areas like couches so that pets can move past them.
3. Install the Sensors
Installing motion sensors is relatively easy, especially if you choose wireless sensors. Just follow these steps:
- Find a sturdy mounting location: You should mount the sensor on a solid surface, while avoiding corners, draft zones, or spots that have hot and cold temperature swings.
- Position the sensor: Most motion detectors should be positioned around 7 feet above the ground and be angled down 10-20 degrees towards the floor. This angle will help cover a wider detection area and avoid false alarms.
- Secure the sensor: Attach the sensor to the mounting bracket using screws, and make sure it’s secured tightly.
For hardwired sensors, you will need to carefully run wires through the walls and ceiling of your home.
4. Test Your Sensors
After you’ve installed your motion sensors, it’s important to thoroughly test them to make sure they’re working correctly. To do this, you can simply walk around your home and trigger the sensors.
If you have pets, you may want to have a friend or family member help you test the sensors while your pets are present in the home.
5. Connect Your Sensors to Your Home Security System
Finally, once you’ve installed and tested your motion sensors, it’s time to connect them to your home security system. If you already have a security system in place, this should be relatively easy to do. If you don’t have a system yet, consider purchasing one that is compatible with your chosen motion sensors.
By following these steps, you can effectively protect your home with motion sensors. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or simply looking to upgrade your home security, motion sensors offer a simple and effective solution to improve your safety and peace of mind.