Window Alarm Sensors: Affordable Solutions for Home Security
A window alarm sensor plays an important role in increasing the level of security of homes and detecting intrusions through the windows. In the article, we will explain the types of sensors, such as contact, glass break, and motion sensors. Moreover, we will discuss how they are mounted and managed. These sensors, especially when used together with security cameras, significantly improve security measures.
What is a Window Alarm Sensor?
A window alarm sensor is a device that can identify changes in a window, for example when it is opened or smashed, to notify the residents of the premises that there is a trespasser. Its main purpose is to always watch and listen for certain signals so that security is threatened when the prompt reaction is initiated.
This sensor is always active, scanning the place for these alarms. Once it identifies an intrusion, it sounds an alarm to let you know. For example, the system has motion sensors, which register any form of movement around the window and trigger the alarm. Hence, this early warning system assists in protecting your home by alerting you of intrusion immediately.
Types of Window Alarm Sensors
There are 3 main types of window alarm sensors, and here is the function of each one, along with the details on where to install it.
Contact Sensors
A contact sensor consists of two parts, one placed on the window frame and the other on the window. Its functioning includes the two parts being in contact with each other when the window is closed. If the window is opened, the contact breaks, leading to the sounding of the alarm.
Where to Install:
Use contact sensors at each window, one part on the frame and the other on the windowpane. Proper alignment is essential for the system to work properly.
Glass Break Sensors
Powerful glass break sensors identify the noise or shock produced when glass is broken. They are meant to pick the different tones that correspond to the breaking of glass in case of break-ins.
Where to Install:
Glass break sensors should be positioned close to windows or glass doors. Common positions are on the walls or ceilings up to 20 feet.
Motion Sensors
These are used to detect motion when an object is sensed within a specific radius. When a person gets close to the area monitored by the sensor, the alarm goes off, which helps increase the security of the area.
Where to Install:
Plug motion detectors in the rooms with the windows, this will require covering the areas around the windows with motion detectors. Place them in corner parts of the building or separate walls from which they have a clear view of the entirety of the premises.
How to Install Window Alarm Sensors?
Below is our complete guide on how to install these sensors with information on the location and tools that you will need.
Tools Needed
- Screwdriver
- Market
- Measuring tape
- Surface level tool
- Sticky tape
Installation Steps
Here are the complete installation steps that you may follow:
- Clean the areas where you want to place the sensors and mark the holes with a marker.
- Drill holes if necessary and install the sensors on the walls and/or ceilings within proximity.
- Place the sensors and fasten them with screws or double-sided tape. Install the motion sensors in optimal areas where they can properly function. Use screws or adhesives to fix them.
- Check that any installed sensor is properly mounted and operational; this follows checking each window and sensor.
Maintenance And Troubleshooting of Window Alarm Sensors
When your window alarm sensors do not work as intended, you may follow the maintenance tips and troubleshooting measures below:
- Ensure that the two parts of the sensor are correctly aligned and there is the needed space between them according to the instruction manual. Misalignment can cause the sensor not to function properly.
- Ensure that no part of the sensor is broken or missing. The physical damage or missing parts may affect the functionality of a sensor.
- Replace batteries when they are drained out. Low or drained batteries can result in malfunctioning sensors.
- To turn on the alarm of the sensor, restart it from the control panel. Bug issues can sometimes be easily fixed using the simplest methods, such as merely restarting power.
- The working of the sensors can be affected by obstruction from dust and debris. Clean the sensors of any obstruction with a soft, dry cloth to avoid interference.
- Make sure you perform some tests on your alarm system occasionally to help you know whether it is functioning to the best of its capabilities. This can include opening windows to confirm if the alarm sounds as is required when there is an intrusion.
Another Measure to Enhance Window Security - Security Camera
Using the cameras together with the window sensors offers a strong security system that offers advantages such as remote system monitoring. So, here are the 2 security cameras that you can install at your place:
Reolink Argus 4 Pro
The Reolink Argus 4 Pro is one of the best security cameras on the market with 4K resolution, color vision at night, and a large 180-degree field of view. It has wireless capabilities and is operated through battery power that can be recharged via solar, which allows one to place the unit anywhere.
4k 180° Wire-free Color Night Vision Camera
4K UHD 180° Blindspot-free View; Color Vision Day and Night; 30% More Battery Life; Dual-band Wi-Fi 6; Smart detection.
Reolink Go PT Ultra
The Reolink Go PT Ultra is quite portable, the camera uses a 4G LTE connection and does not require Wi-Fi. PTZ option, 4K Ultra high-definition video, and color night vision provide coverage and image quality. This camera will be useful in increasing security in areas where the choice of networks is few.
4K 8MP Wire-Free 4G LTE PT Battery Camera
4K 8MP; Smart Detection; 355° Pan & 140° Tilt; Battery/Solar Powered; Color Night Vision; Smart Real-Time Alert.
FAQs
Are Window Alarm Sensors Worth It?
Yes, window alarm sensors are worth it if a family or an individual wants to enhance the physical security of their house. Their property and family’s safety are protected from burglars. They secure a basic level of protection as they inform you of an intrusion.
Do Window Alarm Sensors Go Bad?
Yes, the window alarm sensors can be damaged over time because of wear and tear, low battery, or unfavorable conditions including environmental factors. They must be serviced from time to time and tested from time to time so that they will always be in proper working condition.
Does ADT Put Sensors on Windows?
Yes, ADT puts sensors for windows in the security systems that they offer to their clients. They provide different varieties of sensors that involve contact, glass breakage, and motion sensors for proper protection of the home.
Which Window Alarm Is Best?
There isn’t a ‘best’ window alarm since it depends on what you want out of a window alarm. Some of the popular systems are SimpliSafe, Ring, as well as ADT. While SimpliSafe allows people to install the system by themselves, Ring has integration with smart home systems, and ADT has professional monitoring.
Conclusion
Window alarm sensors are important in protecting a home since they provide an efficient and effective method of detecting any intrusion. This is the only way that one will be able to maximize the performance, type, installation, and manner of maintaining such systems. Integrated with security cameras such as Reolink Argus 4 Pro or Reolink Go PT Ultra, sensors increase your home’s safety.
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