How to Install Window Sensors in Your Home

Other than the door, burglars most commonly gain entry into a home through a window. So any home security system should include some kind of protection for the windows. One common component is the window switch.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Window Switches

Selecting the Switch

1. Survey your home and determine which windows you wish to integrate into the security system. Not every window needs to be covered. For example, windows on the second floor of a home that one can only gain access to with a ladder will not need a switch. Moreover, windows that are in plain sight of neighbors and the street may not need to be covered. However, windows located in unobservable areas of your home, as well as back windows and windows shrouded by bushes, should be covered.

2. Count the number of windows you wish to cover and purchase the appropriate number of switches. The easiest to install are switches that fasten using double-sided adhesive tape.

3. Select switches that are UL-certified.

Installing the Switch

4. Read the installation instructions that come with the switch.

5. Using the double-sided adhesive tape, mount the magnet to the window frame.

6. Using the double-sided adhesive tape, mount the contact to the glass of the window aligned with the magnet on the frame.

7. Run the wire to the control panel.

8. Connect the wire to the proper input on the control panel.

9. Test the installation by opening the window.

Tips & Warnings

• You might consider a glass-breaking detector instead of a window switch. See "How to Install a Glass-Breaking Sensor" and "How to Choose a Sensor for Your Home Security System." Your alarm system will only accommodate a certain number of switches, and each window sensor is a switch. Also, glass-breaking detectors may be more cost-effective, because one sensor can monitor an entire room. Another thing to keep in mind is that a window switch senses movement of the window (that is, opening it), not breaking glass. If you fear an intruder will gain entry into your home by breaking a window, you may want to choose a glass-breaking detector.
• Some states regulate who can install home security systems. Moreover, the task requires that the do-it-yourselfer be highly skilled in doing electrical work. National codes concerning the electrical wiring of a home must also be taken into account.

on 3/6/2006 Many old houses have painted-shut windows, many companies will sell you window sensors anyway. Glass sensors or motion sensors (if applicable) would actually work, and cause less expense and problems.

on 1/18/2006 Window contacts, in my opinion, are better than glass break detectors. If you use only glass break detectors, the windows must be securely locked all the time. Many times in the spring and summer months, homeowners will leave their windows unlocked or open and the alarm can still be armed. With window contacts you can not arm your house until you close your window. The best solution is window contacts with glass break detectors.

on 11/22/2005 When installing a window contact, do not mount the magnet to the window frame. Mount it to the movable part of the window. The contact itself should be glued or screwed to the window frame and wired properly. If it is a wireless system, this practice may not be necessary, but it is still recommended. For better performance, install the magnets to the movable parts.