How to minimize motion sensor false alarms in your Bloomington home

Motion sensors are critical aspects in a full-featured home security installation, as they’ll tell you if unexpected activity is occurring at your house. Regrettably, they’re also susceptible to false alarms, causing irritation and a bad night’s sleep for Bloomington homeowners. If you’re looking for solutions, check out our recommendations for cutting down on motion sensor false alarms.

What triggers motion detector false alarms?

The bulk of home motion detectors employ passive infrared (PIR) technology to find movement. They monitor fluctuations in infrared radiation within their detection zone and can recognize when someone is moving by their heat signature. False alarms are typically initiated by: 

• Pets climbing on countertops or sofas
• Bright sunlight streaming through a window
• Various heat sources, such as fireplaces and ducts
• Rapid humidity or temperature fluctuations, which cause equipment to be hypersensitive or non-reactive

Microwave motion sensors are another widespread option that detects motion by continuously emitting and evaluating electromagnetic waves. These active motion detectors spot movement through modifications in the returning signal. Any unforseen activity, like curtains moving when an HVAC fan starts up, can initiate an alarm.

Ideas for reducing motion sensor false alarms at your Bloomington home

Aside from interrupted sleep, motion sensor false alarms are particularly troublesome as they can desensitize you to actual dangers. Additionally, frequent false alarms can become a frustration for local law enforcement and may influence response times in the future. Luckily, you can help prevent them by implementing these suggestions:

• Inspect the sensitivity settings of your sensors and modify to your animal’s behavior and size.
• Even if you have animal-friendly motion detectors, it’s advisable not to direct them at high-activity spots like feeding stations.
• Avoid pointing motion detectors at windows receiving intense sunlight.
• Ensure rooms are adequately insulated to minimize temperature shifts.
• Frequently dust and clean devices to keep sensors clear.
• Check batteries and swap out as needed. Many motion sensors will even tell you when batteries are getting low.
• Get them installed professionally to ensure optimal positioning.

You could also opt for dual-technology devices that employ both passive and active means to identify activity, providing greater accuracy.

How can you incorporate motion sensors into your Bloomington smart home?

Incorporating motion sensor into an automated smart home is a excellent way to improve your convenience and safety. You’ll be able to do the following:

• Obtain immediate updates on your smartphone whenever motion is found. You might also utilize them to notify you when your kids arrive home from school.
• Program interior cameras to record any time a motion sensor trips.
• Adjust lighting or temperature settings in accordance with your home’s occupancy. This functionality can help curb utility bills.

Top smart home motion detectors, like those from Vivint, continue to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to better identify actual threats and reduce false alarms.

Create your Vivint smart home with dependable motion sensors

Get leading motion sensors in Bloomington from Vivint when you plan your fully integrated smart home. Our devices are pet-sensitive and permit you to initiate numerous automation actions. You’ll also appreciate the five-year battery and instant cell phone updates. Call (812) 579-4884 today to design your system.