Sometimes a secure lock and gate just aren’t enough for that feeling of complete home security. And with today’s technologies (and tech adoption bringing prices down for everyone), that’s where motion sensors come in.
Motion sensors, or motion detectors, are small devices that detect movement or heat in a given space. They’re dual purpose as a deterrent and alarm that makes them a must-have for every home around the Shiloh, O’Fallon and Belleville, IL area.
The catch is that, for complete protection, these devices must be placed strategically with your unique end-goals in mind. This means installing devices not too high and not too low and covering the main areas most likely to be hit in a burglary attempt. And, depending on your need to deter or detect, you need to know whether the devices should be conclealed or visible.
How high off the ground should motion sensors go?
Your motion sensors will be at their optimum efficiency between six to eight feet off of the ground. This is the perfect height to catch most people walking in an upright position, too. Positioning your motion detectors too low will result in false alarms from household pets strolling by, so be sure to take heigh seriously or you will have a lot of “Alert!” notifications.
What rooms should I focus on?
To get the most out of your motion sensor, place them first in hallways. More specifically, place them pointing in the direction of your rooms with the most valuables. Hallways are unavoidable areas that must be accessed to get to the rest of your home. You can also receive the added benefit of tapping the sensor’s optimum use in these spaces, as they work better detecting differences side-to-side rather than head-on.
Think like a burglar and focus on rooms that are likely to be the main focus, such as the master bedroom. Make sure to cover all floor hallways, too, if your home has more than one story. And any window is an opportunity for unwanted access to your prized possessions.
Inside of main rooms, focus on the corners. But be sure the dectors are not facing windows, or they’ll go off all the time. Installing sensors in the corner of just about any room allows for the largest coverage of area space, including entry points of the room if it’s installed in the opposite corner. Placing the sensors in ceiling corners out of reach where cameras are nonetheless still visible is another deterring factor to unwelcomed guests, too.
Where shouldn’t motion sensors go?
Windows and other heat sources like vents should absolutely be avoided when placing your detectors, as they may trigger false readings. Many motion sensors detect infrared heat, and no one wants police rushing to your home because you turned on the heat!
Do not place sensors in low-lying places where they can be disabled, either. Hide motion sensors in plain sight among decorations if you want to avoid detection, but also make sure that nothing is blocking their line of sight. The only exception is when you need to place sensors directly on extremely valuable possessions. When moved, those sensor will go off and notify you that something is amiss.
I still have some questions..
We can answer your questions! There are lots of places online and in-store to research hardware for your home security, but when it comes to installation, there’s a handyman you can call. We’re here to answer questions as well as share advice for setup. Give us a call or drop us a message today, and we’ll help make sure you can rest easy knowing your home and family are safe.
