How to reduce motion sensor false alarms in your Utica home

Motion sensors are critical aspects in a comprehensive home security strategy, as they’ll alert you whenever an unwanted guest is moving through your house. Regrettably, they’re also vulnerable to false alarms, causing Utica homeowners to lose sleep. If you’re trying to find solutions, check out our tips on reducing motion sensor false alarms.

What initiates motion detector false alarms?

The majority of home motion detectors utilize passive infrared (PIR) technology to detect activity. They track changes in infrared radiation within their coverage zone and can recognize when someone is in motion by their heat signature. False alarms are frequently caused by: 

• Pets jumping on countertops or furniture
• Intense sunlight streaming through a window
• A variety of heat sources, such as fireplaces and air ducts
• Sudden humidity or temperature shifts, which cause devices to be hypersensitive or non-functional

Microwave motion sensors are another frequently used option that detects movement by continuously sending out and analyzing electromagnetic waves. Referred to as active motion sensors, they pinpoint movement due to modifications in the returning signal. Any unexpected motion, like curtains shifting when your HVAC fan starts up, can set off an alarm.

Suggestions for reducing motion sensor false alarms at your Utica home

In addition to a lack of sleep, motion sensor false alarms can be even more troublesome as they may lower your sensitivity to genuine dangers. Additionally, frequent false alarms can become a frustration for emergency providers and may influence response times in the future. Luckily, you can help avoid them by adhering to these suggestions:

• Check the sensitivity settings of your equipment and adjust to your furry friend’s size and behavior.
• Avoid pointing them at high-activity spots like food dispensers, even when you have animal-friendly sensors.
• Avoid pointing motion sensors at windows receiving bright sunlight.
• Ensure areas are properly insulated to minimize temperature changes.
• Dust and wipe off equipment periodically to keep sensors clear.
• Monitor batteries and swap out as needed. Some motion detectors will even let you know when batteries are running out.
• Get them installed professionally to ensure correct placement.

You may also choose multi-function devices that use both passive and active tools to detect motion, leading to improved accuracy.

How to utilize motion sensors in your Utica smart home?

Integrating motion sensors into a modern smart home is a excellent way to enhance your convenience and security. You’ll have the ability to do the following:

• Receive instant updates on your cell phone any time activity is found. You might also program them to update you when your kids get home from school.
• Configure indoor cameras to record when a motion sensor trips.
• Change lighting or temperature settings according to whether people are home. This feature can help lower utility expenses.

Top smart home motion detectors, like those installed by Vivint, continue to harness artificial intelligence (AI) to more effectively recognize real threats and minimize false alarms.

Design your Vivint smart home with dependable motion sensors

Get leading motion sensors in Utica from Vivint when you plan your comprehensive smart home. Our devices are pet-sensitive and permit you to program numerous automation actions. You’ll also benefit from the five-year battery and automatic smartphone alerts. Reach out to (315) 819-0721 today to learn more.