DIY Security Systems
When we think of security, we think of alarm systems. Although doors are the first things we want to be secured, windows are of equal importance. A lot of potential burglaries occur at the sight of opportunities like unguarded doors and windows. After installing alarm sensors, it is critical to know how to change battery in window alarm sensor in the event of a maintenance emergency.
Whether this is your first time working your way through sensors or just a maintenance refresher, we will walk you throughout the process.
Window Alarm Sensor Types And Changing Batteries
Door sensors and window sensors have similar mechanisms. These window sensors can either be surface-mounted or recessed, wireless or hardwired. Window sensors then have four major types. Let’s go through the wireless varieties first, so we know how to change battery window alarm sensor better. After that, we will give you the steps on how to go about this task.
Wireless Surface-Mounted
A surface-mounted sensor means they are placed on the exterior surface of the window’s frame. It is usually built to be small enough to avoid visual detection. These sensors are easy to install because it doesn’t need significant changes or drilling on the windows. Some of them require something as simple as a double-sided tape.
Wireless simply means that it does not need to be hardwired to any panels. This is perfect for DIY installers since it’s a more relaxed and quicker installation process. A wireless sensor works with a wireless system and a wireless receiver that you can purchase separately.
The wireless surface-mounted sensors require batteries to work. Here are some of the steps to know how to change battery in window alarm sensor on this type of sensor:
Step 1 – Find the screwdriver slot. Some of these slots are located on the side of your wireless transmitters.
Step 2 – Slide the screwdriver in, untwist then remove the cover.
Step 3 – Pop off the plate that covers the circuit board. You can do this by gently pushing your screwdriver to remove the plate. You must be careful not to damage the circuit board while you do this step.
Step 4 – Locate the battery and remove the battery. After locating the battery, slide it out and replace it with your new battery with the plus side up.
Step 5 – Reassemble your wireless sensor. The cover has to be closed back in with the screw back in place.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Take note of the arrows in your magnet. The arrows in your magnet are for its polarities. These arrows have to be lined up with your transmitter in order for the alarm to work correctly. If they are not lined up properly, you might get false alarms.
Wireless Recessed
Recessed sensors are drilled into the frame of your window. The advantage is that these sensors are not visible, but they do need extra work when installing. It may seem a bit complex, but it is relatively easy to know how to change battery in window alarm sensor recessed into your window frame.
- Step 1 – Switch off the alarm system before starting. You wouldn’t want to be surprised by your alarm system while you’re working. You may also hear some beeping when you begin to open your panel.
- Step 2 – Use a coin to twist the sensor out of the door. Most sensors that are drilled to the frame come with a mechanism that should make it easy for you to remove. You should have a coin or a screwdriver handy during this time.
- Step 3 – Remove the old battery and replace it with the new battery. You must handle the sensor and the battery with care, so you do not accidentally damage anything.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The sensor that is drilled in has two guides lined up. These two guides will help you put the sensor back where it was originally installed.
- Step 4 – Slide the sensor back in and use a coin to tighten the sensor into place. There are no wires in installing a wireless recessed sensor, but make sure the antenna is straight when inserted into the frame.
Wireless surface-mounted and wireless recessed window sensors require batteries. And although they are easier to install, it is good to know how to change battery in window alarm sensor of these types.
Among the four window types, hardwired sensors do not require a change of batteries. Let’s look into these two types further
The Two Other Types Of Window Alarm Sensors
- Hardwire Surface-Mounted
- Hardwire Recessed
Hardwires require wiring into the panels. Most of the time, installing hardwired window sensors becomes an impossible task for DIY users. But if you have the time and money to do it, it increases your property value and becomes a wise investment in the long run.
Hardwired sensors also don’t require a change of batteries, which makes it also an investment in long term ease.
Components Of A Wireless Window Sensor
A lot of window sensors have components like magnets and reed switches. A reed switch works like the switch on your laptop or your fridge. When you close your laptop, the light goes off. Similarly, when you close your fridge, the fridge light switches off.
A window sensor works similarly. A reed switch has a small circuit inside, and it is located on the window’s frame. Then you have a magnet attached to the windowpane and placed next to the reed switch. In a closed window, this magnet holds the metal contacts of the switch together. During this time, the electric current flows continuously. When the window is opened, these metal contacts separate, and the electric current is interrupted. The sensor then triggers your security alarm by signaling the control panel. Here’s how to learn more about Window Alarms.
Conclusion
One of the best ways to protect our homes is to secure every possible entrance. This includes windows. Wireless window sensors have become an affordable and hassle-free way to protect our homes. We become ready for any type of emergency when we understand how to change battery in window alarm sensor for both recessed and surface-mounted types.