How to cut down on motion sensor false alarms in your Wilmington home
Motion sensors are critical aspects in a multi-layered home security plan, as they’ll let you know if an unwelcome guest is moving through your house. Regrettably, they’re also vulnerable to false alarms, causing irritation and lost sleep for Wilmington homeowners. If you’re searching for solutions, explore our tips on minimizing motion sensor false alarms.
What triggers motion detector false alarms?
Most home motion detectors employ passive infrared (PIR) technology to detect movement. They sense shifts in infrared radiation in their field of view and can recognize when something is moving by its heat signature. False alarms are typically initiated by:
- Pets climbing on counters or furniture
- Intense sunlight shining through a window
- Different heat sources, such as fireplaces and air ducts
- Sudden temperature or humidity fluctuations, which cause components to be too sensitive or non-reactive
Microwave motion sensors are another widespread option that senses activity by continually broadcasting and analyzing electromagnetic waves. Called active motion sensors, they pinpoint movement via alterations in the reflected signal. Any unexpected activity, like curtains swaying when an HVAC fan starts up, can set off an alarm.
Suggestions for reducing motion sensor false alarms at your Wilmington home
Aside from losing sleep, motion sensor false alarms can be particularly troublesome as they can desensitize you to real risks. Additionally, repeated false alarms might become a frustration for local law enforcement and may affect response times in the future. Thankfully, you can help circumvent them by implementing these tips:
- Investigate the sensitivity parameters of your sensors and adjust to your pet’s size and behavior.
- Avoid aiming them at high-traffic areas like food bowls, even when you have animal-friendly sensors.
- Avoid directing motion sensors at windows that receive intense sunlight.
- Make sure rooms are sufficiently insulated to help prevent temperature fluctuations.
- Dust and wipe down components frequently to keep sensors clear.
- Monitor batteries and change as needed. Many motion sensors will even inform you when batteries are low.
- Get them installed professionally to ensure correct placement.
You might also choose multi-function devices that utilize both active and passive means to sense movement, providing improved accuracy.
How to incorporate motion sensors into your Wilmington smart home?
Integrating motion sensors into a modern smart home is a terrific way to enhance your convenience and security. You’ll be able to do the following:
- Obtain immediate notifications on your smartphone any time motion is detected. You might use them to alert you when your little ones get home from school.
- Program cameras to record any time a motion sensor triggers.
- Alter lighting or thermostat settings based on your home’s occupancy. This functionality can help reduce utility costs.
Top smart home devices, like the models offered by Vivint, continue to employ artificial intelligence (AI) to better recognize actual threats and reduce false alarms.
Create your Vivint smart home with advanced motion sensors
Get the top motion sensors in Wilmington from Vivint when you plan your comprehensive smart home. Our tools are pet-friendly and allow you to program numerous automation actions. You’ll also enjoy a five-year battery life and immediate smartphone alerts. Contact (910) 634-2695 today to design your system.