Where to put home security sensors?
Planning your home security system correctly could mean the difference between complete protection and allowing a thief to get into your home undetected. The good news is it's not hard to get it right.
Invest in good advice
There is an abundance of DIY home security systems available which seem to contain everything you need. However, the one thing they will all lack is experienced professional advice specific to your home requirements.
Every property has a variety of aspects which make it unique and need to be taken into consideration when designing a secure home protection system. Getting advice from a trusted local security alarm installation company ensures all potential access points are covered and you receive information on the risk factors in your area.
Security sensor placement
Positioning security sensors, both strike plates and motion detectors, in the best spots will ensure any unlawful entry will be discovered immediately.
Window and door sensors
Window and door sensors or strike plates are positioned on the door or movable section of the window and on the frame. If the two plates lose contact with each other, or the reed switch (on one plate) and the magnet (on the opposite plate) are moved apart, the sensor sends a message to the alarm panel which triggers the siren and/or reports the event to your alarm monitoring centre.
Ideally, all doors and windows should have a sensor fitted, even those on the second or upper floors. It could help to physically walk around the outside and then the inside of the building to make sure you don't overlook an entrance point. Pay particular attention to non-obvious areas such as the garage windows as well as the door from the garage to the house, storage areas with house access, and the doors or windows off upper-floor balconies.
Door sensors are usually fitted with a delay function which allows you to enter the home and disarm the system using your passcode without the alarm going off every time. There is often a beep or buzz sound omitted from the keypad panel while this delay is timing out.
There is a range of sensor models to suit a huge selection of door and window styles including Glass break sensors which monitor any breakage of both the opening and non-moveable sides of a window or sliding glass door.
Motion detector positioning
Motion detectors are most effective when placed away from potential false alarm triggers, such as next to the air blowing out of an air conditioner or opposite a window through which the extreme heat could activate the sensor.
Motion sensors work best when positioned so the person in the room walks across their path, rather than directly toward it. Placing detectors in corners often works best for this reason.
Important - Don't neglect the second or third floors thinking that they are safe, resourceful thieves will easily access these areas of your home. Monitor bedrooms and hallways to ensure all rooms are covered.
Ultimately, the aim is to create a security system which offers comprehensive coverage of all areas of the property. The best advice we can give to ensure your home is protected is to seek professional help with security sensor placements throughout your home.
If you value your possessions invest in quality products and expert advice.