Motion sensors are the heart of a security system and act as the watchdog. They trigger an alarm when they detect someone in the home or business. They can also be programmed to record events through a security camera as they happen. They may even sound an audible alert if they spot a potential intruder.
Installation Tips
There are a few things to keep in mind when wiring a motion detector for your home or business. These tips can help you get the most out of your investment and avoid false alarms.
1. Find a good location for your sensor
Your first step is to decide where to place your sensor. The best spots are high on the wall or in corners, so you can cover the most area. Corners are ideal, because they can be angled and have screw holes for mounting.
2. Install the sensor opposite a main entrance
Motion detectors are ideally placed in areas where intruders tend to walk toward, like a hallway or narrow pathway that leads to a room. This will increase the accuracy of the detection and reduce false alarms.
3. Check the wiring for any problems
Once you’ve figured out where to mount your sensor, make sure it’s wired correctly. You can do this by using the instructions that come with your device or by consulting a professional.
4. Clean the screen of your motion sensor
Over time, dust and debris can collect on the sensor’s screen and interfere with its ability to detect infrared energy waves. To maintain your motion detector’s detection accuracy, wipe it down with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cloth once a month.
5. Install the motion sensor in a safe and secure manner
If you’re planning to use your motion detector as part of a security system, work with a professional to determine the best placement. This will help ensure your motion detector is positioned in an optimal location, avoiding false alarms and maximizing its detection range.
6. Avoid a heat source
Keep PIR (passive infrared) sensors at least 10-15 feet away from any hot or warm sources, such as radiators or heating vents. This is especially important for porches and patios, since intruders often enter through these areas.
7. Avoid installing the sensor in a tight space
Because motion detectors use infrared energy to detect movement, they can’t see through walls or other hard objects. If a window is open or a door is open, the infrared radiation from those items will pass through the glass and interfere with the detector’s detection ability.
8. Avoid putting the motion detector over a large piece of furniture, such as an entertainment center or bookshelf.
The best position for your sensor is in a corner, so you can cover the most area and minimize false alarms. Corners are also a good place to mount an infrared sensor because they can be angled and have screwholes for mounting.