How to Add Sensors to a Security System

Security systems may not provide all the protection you need.

Homeowners should be aware of the fact that basic security system coverage with a commercial firm may not be enough to protect their home. After all, your home is your castle and you will want to add extra protection in case an intruder threatens it. Basic alarm systems are connected to only two or three doors in your household. Other potential points of accesses may not be covered, such as the windows. This is a great reason for you to add motion sensors to your existing security system so that you will sleep easier at night knowing that you have an extra layer of defense.

Things You'll Need

• Sensor and motion detector kit

Instructions

1. Purchase a sensor and motion detector kit from an electronic store or a shop that sells security hardware. Make sure the sensors are wireless to make the installation process easier.

2. Choose the type of sensors you want to be a part of your home security system. Most commonly used sensors are outdoor motion detectors that turn on floodlights when someone is moving around in your yard. Also, glass-breaking detectors, door and window switches are especially handy when an intruder tries to enter your home via the windows. Ideally, you can use all of these types of sensors to help eliminate the possibilities of an intruder accessing your house.

3. Decide which doors and windows a sensor will monitor in your house. For multi-story houses, the main floor and basement windows are top priority for adding sensors, however, don't feel overconfident that an intruder won't try to access the house from the top. The best plan of action is to place sensors on outside windows and doors on all floors of the house. These sensors are wireless and can be attached to the doors and windows like magnets.

4. Install both the alarm and keypad for the sensors on all floors of your house and make sure they are within easy walking distance. Ideal locations for installing the keypad would be near the kitchen and garage area and also in the hallway leading to the bedrooms. They can also be installed next to the commercial security alarm keypad.

Tips & Warnings

• You have another option if you don't want to buy the sensor and motion detector kits. If you are using a commercial security service, you can upgrade the service and have the company install it's own wireless sensors that will be connected to the electronic frequency of the keypad that is already installed in your house. This also means that the sensors can help alert emergency services in case they are set off by a burglar. However, the extra security will increase your monthly payments to the security company.

• Keep in mind that your sensor and motion detector kit are not automatically set up to the emergency services that your commercial alarm system is setup for. It will set off an alarm and require you to call the police.

References

• Street Directory: Should I Add Motion Sensors To My Home Security System?
• Geoarm: Iti Wireless
• SimplisaWireless Senors