How to cut down on motion sensor false alarms in your Abilene home

Motion sensors are crucial components in a comprehensive home security installation, as they’ll tell you if an unwelcome guest is prowling around your house. Regrettably, they’re also susceptible to false alarms, causing Abilene homeowners to lose sleep. If you’re looking for solutions, explore our suggestions for minimizing motion sensor false alarms.

What causes motion detector false alarms?

The majority of home motion detectors employ passive infrared (PIR) technology to identify activity. They monitor changes in infrared radiation within their coverage zone and can determine when something is in motion by its heat signature. False alarms are often triggered by: 

• Pets jumping on tabletops or couches
• Flashes of intense sunlight through a window
• Various heat sources, like vents and fireplaces
• Drastic humidity or temperature fluctuations, which cause devices to be overly sensitive or unresponsive

Microwave motion sensors are an additional frequently used option that detects movement by continuously emitting and evaluating electromagnetic waves. Referred to as active motion sensors, they pinpoint movement via modifications in the returning signal. Any unforseen activity, like curtains shifting when your HVAC fan starts up, can initiate an alarm.

Suggestions for reducing motion sensor false alarms at your Abilene home

Beyond losing sleep, motion sensor false alarms are particularly disruptive as they may desensitize you to genuine threats. Furthermore, frequent false alarms may become a nuisance to first responders and may influence ensuing response times. Fortunately, you can help circumvent them by adhering to these suggestions:

• Investigate the sensitivity levels of your devices and adjust to your pet’s behavior and size.
• Even when you have animal-friendly motion detectors, it’s wise not to point them at high-activity spots like food dispensers.
• Avoid pointing motion sensors at windows that receive intense sunlight.
• Make certain rooms are adequately insulated to prevent drastic temperature changes.
• Periodically dust and wipe off components to keep sensors clear.
• Inspect batteries and replace as needed. Certain motion sensors will even inform you when batteries are low.
• Get them installed professionally to ensure optimal positioning.

You could also choose dual-technology devices that use both active and passive means to sense movement, resulting in greater accuracy.

How should you incorporate motion sensors into your Abilene smart home?

Incorporating motion sensor into a new smart home is a fantastic way to enhance your security and convenience. You’ll have the ability to do the following:

• Receive immediate updates on your smartphone whenever motion is found. You might program them to notify you when your children get home from school.
• Program cameras to record any time a motion sensor triggers.
• Change lighting or thermostat settings in accordance with your home’s occupancy. This feature can help lower utility costs.

Top smart home motion detectors, like the models installed by Vivint, continue to employ artificial intelligence (AI) to more effectively identify actual threats and decrease false alarms.

Build your Vivint smart home with reliable motion sensors

Get the best motion sensors in Abilene from Vivint when you plan your comprehensive smart home. Our devices are pet-sensitive and permit you to initiate various home automation actions. You’ll also enjoy a five-year battery life and instant mobile alerts. Call (325) 378-0098 today to get started.