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

Motion sensors are critical elements in a multi-layered home security installation, as they’ll alert you whenever an unwanted guest is prowling around your house. Sadly, they’re also vulnerable to false alarms, causing Washington DC homeowners to lose sleep. If you’re trying to find solutions, review our suggestions for minimizing motion sensor false alarms.

What causes motion detector false alarms?

The bulk of residential motion detectors employ passive infrared (PIR) technology to identify activity. They track fluctuations in infrared radiation in their detection zone and can determine when something is moving by its heat signature. False alarms are often triggered by: 

• Pets leaping on sofas or countertops
• Direct sunlight shining through a window
• Various heat sources, such as air ducts and fireplaces
• Drastic humidity or temperature fluctuations, which cause components to be too sensitive or non-reactive

Microwave motion sensors are an additional widespread option that senses movement by continually sending out and assessing electromagnetic waves. Known as active motion detectors, they recognize movement via changes in the returning signal. Any unexpected activity, like curtains shifting when an HVAC fan starts up, can set off an alarm.

Ideas for decreasing motion sensor false alarms at your Washington DC home

In addition to losing sleep, motion sensor false alarms are particularly disruptive as they might lower your sensitivity to actual risks. Moreover, frequent false alarms can become a nuisance to local law enforcement and may affect future response times. Luckily, you can help prevent them by following these suggestions:

• Investigate the sensitivity settings of your sensors and change to your animal’s size and behavior.
• Avoid directing them at high-traffic areas like feeding stations, even when using pet-sensitive detectors.
• Avoid directing motion detectors at windows exposed to intense sunlight.
• Make certain spaces are sufficiently insulated to minimize temperature changes.
• Periodically dust and wipe down components to ensure proper function.
• Inspect batteries and replace as needed. Some devices will even let you know when batteries are low.
• Get them installed professionally to ensure correct placement.

You could also opt for multi-function devices that utilize both passive and active tools to identify motion, resulting in a higher degree of accuracy.

How to utilize motion sensors in your Washington DC smart home?

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

• Get automatic notifications on your mobile device when movement is found. You might utilize them to alert you when your little ones get home from school.
• Program interior cameras to record any time a motion sensor triggers.
• Change thermostat settings or lighting in accordance with your home’s occupancy. This functionality can help reduce energy costs.

Leading smart home motion sensors, like the models from Vivint, continue to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to more effectively recognize real threats and reduce false alarms.

Build your Vivint smart home with reliable motion sensors

Get leading motion sensors in Washington DC from Vivint when you customize your fully integrated smart home. Our sensors are animal-sensitive and permit you to program various automation actions. You’ll also enjoy a five-year battery and immediate cell phone updates. Reach out to (202) 780-3214 today to get started.