A smart motion sensor is among the more effective and adaptable home technology products you can purchase. However, there are a few best practices you'll want to adhere to if you want to fully benefit from the security and convenience that a smart motion sensor provides. We've created a guide to explain everything, from the best motion sensor applications and locations to installation advice.
What is a smart motion sensor?
A smart motion sensor detects movement around your house and takes appropriate action when they do. For instance, a smart motion sensor that detects your entry into a room can instantly turn on the lights. Alternatively, if someone tries to break into your house, they can email you a warning. Motion sensors' main goals are to provide you
peace of mind and make your house run more smoothly and effectively.
Types of Motion Sensors
All smart motion sensors can detect movement, but they all operate differently and have a range of possible responses. The kind of smart motion sensor or sensors you select will depend on your particular circumstances and the entire security system.
For instance, some motion sensor types assist you in preventing false alarms that may be set off by dogs, while others are made to detect movement across a large area. Different sorts of technology are used by motion sensors in security systems to detect movement and deliver the desired response. These motion sensors are the most widely used ones in security systems.
Passive infrared sensors
PIR (passive infrared) sensors measure temperature changes caused by body heat. They are dormant until an object enters their detection range, at which point they inform you when a specific temperature change takes place. PIR sensors are designed to recognize abrupt changes within a certain area since heat is constantly generated by all surfaces. They can also be set up to handle minor adjustments, allowing you to use your alarm at night without
mistakenly setting it off or allowing your pet to roam freely while you're away.
Dual technology sensors
To prevent false alerts, some motion sensors employ numerous technologies. This could imply that the same sensor uses both PIR and microwave technology. The technologies operating in a dual sensor are typically in opposition (one is active and one is passive). Both types of sensors need to be triggered to emit an alarm in order for a dual technology sensor to be activated. False alarms tend to happen less frequently because of how the sensors operate differently.
Microwave sensors
These sensors employ innocuous electromagnetic radiation to emit waves that are then reflected back to the sensor in order to detect motion. Continuous pulses are sent out by microwave sensors to track the reflections of moving targets. Change is noted when a fresh object (any intruder) enters the sensor's field. In general, microwave sensors cover a bigger region. But they might be triggered by electrical interference and can be very sensitive.
Ultrasonic sensors
Ultrasonic sensors are continuously operational, as opposed to passive infrared sensors. They produce noises at a frequency that is higher than human hearing. The sound waves return to the motion sensor after bouncing off nearby objects. Simply defined, ultrasonic sensors continuously emit inaudible sound waves, and by listening for echoes that come back to the base, they can identify how close objects are to one another. An alarm is set off whenever
new things are introduced to the scene. These sensors can be set to a particular sensitivity level to prevent sounding an alarm for items that are farther away.
Photo sensor detectors
Photo sensor detectors, which are occasionally used on cameras, use light to detect motion. For instance, a motion-activated camera mounted on your porch will start recording whenever something moves in front of the sensor and the light. A shadow that is cast by blocking the concentrated beam of light starts the recording.
How does a smart motion sensor work?
Passive infrared (PIR) technology is used by the majority of a smart motion sensor. PIR sensors pick up the infrared energy that animals and people emit as heat. So when there is a sudden rise in temperature, your device will detect it and notify the system's control panel. It's important to note that PIR sensors may be configured to disregard slight temperature variations, so you won't have to worry about your dogs unintentionally activating alarms.
Motion sensor applications for homes
Finding out how to use a smart motion sensor in your house is the next step since you now understand what they are and how they operate. These gadgets can be used in a variety of ways that can all contribute to keeping your house as safe and energy-efficient as possible.
1. Protect doors, windows, and entryways.
Protecting your doors, windows, and other entryways from potential break-ins is one frequent application for a smart motion sensor. Install your security sensors close to these points of access, then link your phone or tablet to the sensors. You'll be alerted right away if someone tries to break into your home. You might be able to set up your security system's camera, if it has one, to record any activity it detects.
Automating your home security system has some advantages in addition to improved protection. For instance, it is possible to remotely operate or modify the majority of automated security systems. Additionally, they might be able to get you discounts on your smart home insurance.
2. Identify water temperature variations and leaks.
Water leaks and unexpected temperature fluctuations can both be found with a smart motion sensor. By doing this, you can protect your property from flooding and other sorts of water damage. Put your sensors underneath sinks, dishwashers, and other potentially leaky appliances to get the most out of them. Then, combine your smart device with the sensors to start receiving warnings as soon as leaks or other water problems are discovered.
3. Monitor your home for broken glass.
A smart motion sensor can also keep an eye out for broken glass by keeping an eye on the area around your property. Glass break detectors can be programmed to sound an alarm and send notifications to your smartphone or other connected devices when they detect the sound of breaking glass. When you are away from home for an extended period of time, this effectively discourages break-ins and increases your sense of security.
4. Turn lights on or off automatically.
Motion sensor lighting increases security and encourages energy conservation in the house. You don't have to worry about forgetting to adjust your light switches since, once configured, these gadgets automatically turn on or off when someone enters or exits a room. Additionally, you can set these lights to switch on when suspicious activity is detected and integrate them with your home security system.
5. Limit access to certain parts of your home.
Motion sensors can detect motion in designated spaces and send alerts warning you of undesirable behavior, making them excellent for limiting access to some areas of your home. Simply place your sensor in the desired spot and pair it with a web-enabled device, like a smartphone, to get started. This function may be especially helpful if you have young children or pets in your home.
Where to place motion sensors
Make sure your motion sensors are placed in the appropriate locations of your home for them to function to their maximum capacity. Some of the best locations for motion sensors are listed below:
Corners: The best view of the area below can be achieved by mounting a motion sensor in the corner of your room. Just make sure there are no obstacles in the path of the sensor and that it is aimed at the doorway.
Back and front doors: It is practically hard for burglars to enter without setting off the alarm when motion sensors are installed above doorways since they are hidden and out of sight.
Traffic-heavy locations: Motion sensors installed in stairways, main halls, and other high-traffic locations ensure that intruders set off the alarm regardless of where they are attempting to get to.
Close to valuables: If you place a motion detector close to or behind valuable things, anyone attempting to move or steal them will set off the alarm.
Basements: Your basement might be used as a covert access point by burglars, therefore it's a good idea to install motion sensors there. The sensors should be pointed at doors and windows with no obstructions for the best results.
Additional recommendations for placing motion sensors:
The performance of your motion sensors might be significantly impacted by their placement. When choosing the appropriate location for motion sensors, consider the following best practices:
- Install motion detectors where intruders are most likely to enter.
- Motion sensors should be placed at least 6–8 feet off the ground.
- Make sure that nothing is in the way of your motion sensor's line of sight.
- Keep motion sensors away from radiators, air vents, and other heat sources.
- Put motion detectors to use in climate-controlled spaces.
- Place motion sensors so that anyone approaching them will have to walk across their field of view.
There are some fundamental procedures to take when installing motion sensors in your home, while the procedure may vary depending on the type of motion sensor you have and the layout of your particular home:
- Make sure you have all the supplies you need, including batteries, before opening your motion sensor.
- Choose an inside or outdoor location for your motion sensor.
- Put the mounting bracket on the wall or other surface of your choice.
- Make sure the motion sensor is steady and sturdy before inserting it into the mounting bracket.
- Your smartphone, smart home hub, or other connected devices should be synchronized with your motion sensor.
- Create automation programs and change the settings on your motion sensor.
- To maintain your motion sensor operating well, clean it every few months.
Maximizing the most of the motion sensors in your home
Motion sensors are an easy and affordable place to start if you want to set up a smart home. These adaptable gadgets may assist you with everything from enhancing the security of your home to lowering the amount of energy you use each day. Not to mention the added convenience and effectiveness that motion sensors provide. The best approach to guarantee that your motion sensors are worth the investment is to adhere to the advice and guidelines we have provided.