Home Safety
Having a home alarm system is a way for homeowners to protect themselves, their family, and their property. It is also a way to discourage intruders and to contact law enforcement quickly in the event of a home invasion. However, a home alarm system will only be effective if you know how to install window alarms.
How Does a Window Sensor Work?
While there are both wired and wireless window alarms available, wireless versions are becoming more and more popular because they are easier to install. Window sensors are composed of a magnet and a reed switch pair. The reed switch contains a small circuit that is installed on the window frame, while the magnet is installed on the window pane.
When the window is closed, the switch and magnet are located beside each other. The magnet holds the metal contacts on the switch together, which creates a continuously looping electric current. If the window is opened while the window sensor is turned on, the metal contacts disconnect from each other, and the current stops flowing. The circuit deactivates when the current stops flowing, which sends a signal to the control panel to sound the alarm.
Why Install Window Sensors?
Windows are the most popular choice for home intruders to break into your home, particularly windows that are in hidden spots around your house. If the windows don’t have bars installed, it is ridiculously easy for a home intruder to break the window to gain access into your home. In some cases, the window panel doesn’t even have to be broken; the intruder has to slide the window open.
Installing window sensors will not physically prevent intruders from gaining access to your home, but they will act as a loud deterrent that will draw attention. Even the mere presence of a window sensor will discourage the majority of intruders because they do not want to attract them.
How to Choose a Good Window Sensor
Here are some of the qualities that you want in choosing the best possible window alarm for your home:
Ease of Installation
If you’re planning on installing window alarm contacts by yourself, look for systems that are easy to install. Luckily, many systems are designed with the average homeowner in mind, especially wireless systems.
Compatibility with Security System
If you already have an existing security system in your home, make sure that your window alarms are compatible with your security system. Having a pre-existing security system can limit your choices of window sensors.
Decibel Level
When it comes to window sensor alarms, the louder, the better. Loud alarms will draw more attention, and there’s a better chance that even your neighbor will hear it.
Smart Technology Connectivity
Many wireless window sensors have the option to be connected to your Wi-Fi so that you can get real-time notifications for attempted break-ins. You can also turn off any false alarms. However, make sure that your system is secure as some technologically savvy thieves can hack into your Wi-Fi to turn off your window sensors if it is connected to your Wi-Fi.
Visibility
You might think that small and discrete window sensors are the better choice. However, you might want to consider getting large and visible sensors. If an intruder can see the sensors, it would be enough to make them think twice about breaking into your home.
Tamper Proof
Look for window sensors that screw into the frame because they are more difficult for intruders to remove.
How to Install Window Alarms in Six Steps
Here is how to install window alarms in six steps:
- Choose which windows you want to install window alarms in. If possible, install sensors for all your windows; however, if it is too expensive, choose windows in hidden areas and windows in sensitive areas such as bedrooms and living rooms.
- Make sure that the window sensor system is compatible with your home security system.
- Insert the batteries into your window sensor system.
- Attach the magnet to the frame. If possible, use screws to attach them because this will prevent intruders from tampering with the sensors. However, you can also use double-sided tape. Place the magnet on the corner of the window frame.
- Attach the contact on the surface of your window using double-sided tape. Make sure that there is no more than a half-inch of space between the two pieces.
- Test your system by opening and closing your window. This will give you an idea of how quickly the system responds, how loud the alarm is, and how to deactivate the system in case of false alarms.
Do I Also Need Door Alarms?
If you want to secure your home truly, you should know how to install door alarm sensors. While doors are not are popular with intruders because they are harder to break into, it is still important to place door alarms to ensure that your home is completely covered.
Luckily, door alarms are just as easy to install as window sensors. If you know how to install window alarms, you can install door alarms as well. Place the magnet on the door frame, then place the contact on the door surface adjacent to the frame. As with window sensors, test the connection between contacts on your door alarm to make sure that it is working properly. Know more about Window Alarms.
Conclusion
Knowing how to install window alarms and door alarms is a great skill for any homeowner. You’ll be able to increase your home’s security and peace of mind knowing that you, your family, and your property have an added layer of protection against home invaders. Make sure to research your options so you can choose which window alarms will meet your security needs.