How to minimize motion sensor false alarms in your Helena home
Motion sensors are essential components in a comprehensive home security strategy, as they’ll alert you whenever unexpected activity is going on at your house. Sadly, they’re also vulnerable to false alarms, causing frustration and lost sleep for Helena homeowners. If you’re looking for solutions, explore our suggestions for cutting down on motion sensor false alarms.
What causes motion detector false alarms?
Most residential motion detectors use passive infrared (PIR) technology to identify activity. They sense shifts in infrared radiation inside their coverage zone and can tell when someone is moving by their heat signature. False alarms are often caused by:
- Pets jumping on counters or couches
- Direct sunlight shining through a window
- Various heat sources, like fireplaces and air ducts
- Rapid humidity or temperature changes, which cause devices to be hypersensitive or non-functional
Microwave motion sensors are another frequently used option that discovers movement by continually sending out and evaluating electromagnetic waves. Referred to as active motion sensors, they recognize movement due to modifications in the returning signal. Any unforseen motion, like curtains swaying when the HVAC fan turns on, can set off an alarm.
Tips for limiting motion sensor false alarms at your Helena home
In addition to a lack of sleep, motion sensor false alarms can be particularly disruptive as they can lower your sensitivity to real dangers. Additionally, recurring false alarms can become a frustration for emergency providers and may influence response times in the future. Luckily, you can help avoid them by following these recommendations:
- Investigate the sensitivity parameters of your sensors and change to your pet’s behavior and size.
- Even when using animal-friendly motion detectors, it’s advisable not to direct them at busy areas like food dispensers.
- Avoid pointing motion detectors at windows receiving bright sunlight.
- Make sure areas are sufficiently insulated to help prevent extreme temperature changes.
- Frequently dust and wipe down devices to keep sensors clear.
- Monitor batteries and change as needed. Some motion sensors will even let you know when batteries are running out.
- Consider a professional installation to ensure correct positioning.
You may also invest in multi-function devices that employ both active and passive sensors to sense motion, leading to greater accuracy.
How can you utilize motion sensors in your Helena smart home?
Incorporating motion sensor into a modern smart home is a excellent way to improve your convenience and safety. You’ll have the opportunity to do the following:
- Obtain instant notifications on your mobile device when activity is found. You might also program them to notify you when your little ones get home from school.
- Configure cameras to record when a motion sensor triggers.
- Change temperature levels or lighting in accordance with your home’s occupancy. This capability can help curb energy costs.
Top-tier smart home motion sensors, like those installed by Vivint, continue to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to more accurately recognize threats and reduce false alarms.
Build your Vivint smart home with advanced motion sensors
Get the best motion sensors in Helena from Vivint when you customize your fully integrated smart home. Our devices are pet-sensitive and let you configure numerous automation actions. You’ll also appreciate the five-year battery and immediate smartphone updates. Contact (406) 926-5388 today to learn more.