How to reduce motion sensor false alarms in your Mansfield home
Motion sensors are essential aspects in a full-featured home security plan, as they’ll alert you whenever an unwelcome guest is sneaking around your house. Unfortunately, they’re also susceptible to false alarms, causing Mansfield homeowners to lose sleep. If you’re trying to find solutions, explore our recommendations for reducing motion sensor false alarms.
What causes motion detector false alarms?
Most household motion detectors utilize passive infrared (PIR) technology to find activity. They monitor changes in infrared radiation within their field of view and can recognize when something is moving by its heat signature. False alarms are often caused by:
- Pets climbing on tabletops or sofas
- Flashes of direct sunlight through a window
- Various heat sources, such as fireplaces and air ducts
- Sudden humidity or temperature fluctuations, which cause devices to be hypersensitive or non-reactive
Microwave motion sensors are an additional common option that senses movement by continually broadcasting and analyzing electromagnetic waves. Referred to as active motion detectors, they spot movement via changes in the returning signal. Any unanticipated motion, like curtains swaying when the HVAC fan kicks on, can set off an alarm.
Tips for decreasing motion sensor false alarms at your Mansfield home
In addition to a lack of sleep, motion sensor false alarms can be even more problematic as they can desensitize you to genuine threats. Moreover, frequent false alarms can become a frustration for emergency providers and may influence response times in the future. Luckily, you can help circumvent them by following these recommendations:
- Inspect the sensitivity settings of your sensors and modify to your pet’s size and behavior.
- Even if you have animal-friendly motion detectors, it’s smart not to point them at busy places like food bowls.
- Avoid aiming motion detectors at windows receiving intense sunlight.
- Make certain spaces are adequately insulated to prevent drastic temperature changes.
- Dust and wipe down equipment periodically to keep sensors clear.
- Check batteries and change as needed. Some motion detectors will even let you know when batteries are low.
- Let a pro do the installation to ensure correct positioning.
You might also opt for multi-function devices that utilize both passive and active tools to detect motion, resulting in improved accuracy.
How to use motion sensors in your Mansfield smart home?
Installing motion sensors in a new smart home is a terrific way to boost your convenience and security. You’ll have the ability to do the following:
- Receive immediate alerts on your cell phone when movement is detected. You might utilize them to update you when your kids come home from school.
- Program cameras to record any time a motion sensor triggers.
- Alter thermostat settings or lighting based on your home’s occupancy. This functionality can help curb utility bills.
Top smart home motion sensors, like the ones from Vivint, continue to employ artificial intelligence (AI) to better recognize real threats and minimize false alarms.
Create your Vivint smart home with reliable motion sensors
Get the top motion sensors in Mansfield from Vivint when you customize your fully functional smart home. Our tools are animal-sensitive and let you initiate numerous automation actions. You’ll also enjoy a five-year battery life and immediate cell phone notifications. Reach out to (419) 614-6093 today to learn more.