How to Install Driveway Security Alarms

Driveway security alarms are easy for any homeowner to install. New wireless have replaced older wired systems and add personal safety while enabling even the least electronic-minded homeowner the ability to install a driveway security alarm without the expense of an electrician or security alarm company. Lower prices have made the security of an alarm system accessible for even those on a tight budget.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wireless driveway security alarm system
• Pencil
• Tape measure
• Screwdriver
• 3- or 4-foot Level
• Small level
• Wooden fencepost
• Shovel
• Small bag concrete mix
• Bucket
• Trowel

Selecting the Locations

1. Choose the proper alarm for your driveway by checking the distance from the location you want the alarm sensor and the alarm receiver. Check this measurement on the wireless security alarm to be sure that the alarm will work at the distance needed.

2. Choose the area to mount the sensor. Be sure to mount the receiver above the average snow line for colder climates. A height of 2 to 3 feet will be appropriate for most areas of the United States. Face the sensor away from sidewalks and other regularly traveled areas to prevent the alarm from constantly going off. If this is not possible, adjust the sensor to an angle that will cover the driveway without being triggered by children or pets.

3. Choose the area indoors to mount the receiver for the alarm. The kitchen or most used room of the house is usually the best place to mount the receiver.

4. Test the location of the sensor and receiver by placing each in the location chosen. Trigger the driveway sensor and make sure the sensor indoors picks up the signal. Remember that stone walls and other dense objects may reduce the ability of the sensor to pick up the signal sent by the receiver. You may need to relocate the receiver to an area with fewer dense obstructions between the sensor and receiver.

Installing the Fencepost

5. Dig a hole approximately 2 feet deep and 2 feet across in the area where you want to mount the sensor. Reserve the sod to finish off the area around the fencepost after the concrete has set.

6. Mix the concrete according to package directions.

7. While holding the fencepost in the hole, pour the concrete into the hole and leave 6 inches of space between the ground level and the top of the concrete. This will be back-filled with the soil and sod from digging the hole to give a nice finished look.

8. Hold the level to check that the fencepost is plumb in the hole. Check all sides and make adjustments as needed.

9. Cover the concrete with the soil from the hole once the concrete has set up. Tamp down to the proper height to replace the sod and have it lay level with the rest of the lawn.

Mounting the Sensor

10. Measure the fencepost from the ground to the height that you will mount the sensor. A good height is 2 to 3 feet. Mark the board with the pencil at the position of the bottom of the sensor.

11. Measure from the bottom of the sensor to the mounting holes or brackets located on the back of the sensor. Use this measurement to mark the position for the mounting screws or hardware.

12. Use a small level to mark the position for screws to be sure the sensor will be straight on the post.

13. Screw in the screws so the sensor fits snug against the fencepost when hung on the mounting hardware.

Mounting the Receiver

14. Use the pencil to mark the location of the bottom of the receiver when it is hung on the wall.

15. Measure from the bottom of the receiver to the mounting holes or brackets located on the back of the receiver. Use this measurement to mark the position for the mounting screws or hardware.

16. Use a small level to mark the position for screws to be sure the receiver will be straight on the wall.

17. Screw in the screws so the receiver fits snug against the wall when hung on the screws or mounting hardware.