How to cut down on motion sensor false alarms in your Tempe home
Motion sensors are critical aspects in a multi-layered home security strategy, as they’ll let you know if an unwelcome guest is sneaking around your house. Regrettably, they’re also vulnerable to false alarms, causing Tempe homeowners to lose sleep. If you’re looking for solutions, explore our tips on minimizing motion sensor false alarms.
What causes motion detector false alarms?
The majority of residential motion detectors employ passive infrared (PIR) technology to identify activity. They track fluctuations in infrared radiation within their detection zone and can determine when someone is moving by their heat signature. False alarms are often initiated by:
- Pets leaping on furniture or counters
- Bursts of direct sunlight through a window
- Various heat sources, like fireplaces and vents
- Sudden humidity or temperature fluctuations, which cause devices to be hypersensitive or non-reactive
Microwave motion sensors are another widespread option that senses activity by continually broadcasting and assessing electromagnetic waves. Known as active motion sensors, they pinpoint movement via changes in the returning signal. Any unforseen motion, like curtains shifting when your HVAC fan starts up, can set off an alarm.
Ideas for decreasing motion sensor false alarms at your Tempe home
In addition to a lack of sleep, motion sensor false alarms can be increasingly troublesome as they might numb you to real risks. Additionally, frequent false alarms can become a frustration for local law enforcement and may impact response times in the future. Fortunately, you can help circumvent them by implementing these suggestions:
- Investigate the sensitivity settings of your devices and modify to your pet’s behavior and size.
- Even if you have animal-friendly motion detectors, it’s advisable not to aim them at busy places like feeding stations.
- Avoid directing motion detectors at windows exposed to bright sunlight.
- Make sure spaces are sufficiently insulated to prevent extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Frequently dust and wipe off components to keep sensors working properly.
- Check batteries and replace as needed. Many devices will even inform you when batteries are running out.
- Get them installed professionally to ensure correct placement.
You may also choose dual-technology devices that utilize both passive and active means to detect movement, providing improved accuracy.
How should you incorporate motion sensors into your Tempe smart home?
Incorporating motion sensor into a new smart home is a excellent way to enhance your convenience and security. You’ll have the ability to do the following:
- Receive automatic notifications on your mobile device when motion is spotted. You could also utilize them to update you when your kids arrive home from school.
- Configure cameras to record any time a motion sensor is tripped.
- Adjust thermostat settings or lighting according to whether people are home. This capability can help curb energy costs.
Top-tier smart home motion detectors, like those installed by Vivint, continue to harness artificial intelligence (AI) to more effectively recognize threats and minimize false alarms.
Design your Vivint smart home with reliable motion sensors
Get the top motion sensors in Tempe from Vivint when you customize your fully functional smart home. Our devices are animal-sensitive and allow you to program a variety of home automation actions. You’ll also benefit from the five-year battery and instant cell phone notifications. Contact (480) 360-6677 today to design your system.