Prevent False Alarms: Home Security Sensor Placement

False alarms are a possibility for any home security system. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.

According to the U.S Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, the main causes of false alarms are faulty or inappropriately selected equipment, user error and poor installation.

In this post, we focus on the final item—poor installation—by providing some best practices for home security system set up that can minimize your chances of a false alarm.

Rely on a Professional

Many false alarms stem from errors in placement and planning. Motion, trigger, magnetic and audio sensors all offer unique forms of monitoring, and placement varies based on type and goal.

Don’t go at it alone. The best vendors will have an installation professional take you through the process of what sensors are available and where to place them.

Use Smart Sensor Placement

Walk around your house and take an assessment of windows, doors and possible entry points (both visible and covert). Then, as a best practice, place a trigger sensor on each.

You can also get creative with sensor placement. For example, jewelry boxes and rooms with safes are great places to install them.

As you consider where to place sensors, avoid installing them:

Under objects that move or fall easily such as curtains.
Near vents or fans.
In reach of children.

Consider Your Environment

When it comes to motion sensors, take small children and pets into account, as they are frequent culprits of accidental alarms. Consider motion detectors that will only alarm if something of a certain weight or height triggers it.

Learn more about how to configure your security system with your pet in mind.

Properly Maintain

Errors in physical oversight can be detected by periodic system checks. Test and check your equipment periodically to prevent false alarms that originate from faulty equipment. Ensure sensors are securely mounted, and regularly change batteries.

Through regular maintenance, know that your system is up to date and functioning properly.