Home insurance companies love well-protected homes; the protection reduces their level of exposure to risk. Therefore, many of these companies offer discounts to homeowners who install state-of-the-art security systems. A motion sensor, which detects movement and helps to identify any unauthorized entry, is one of the best forms of security systems available. Here are some of the factors you should consider before investing in one.
Range
The range determines the size of the compound or room a single sensor can monitor; it is typically given in feet. For example, a motion sensor with a 40-feet range can detect any motion within 40 feet in all directions. Thus, you need a long-range sensor if you want to monitor a large home or place; or else you will need to install multiple sensors.
Response
The response is the reaction of the motion detector when it detects movement. For example, it may send an alert to your phone, bathe your home in floodlights or sound an alarm. Some systems have multiple responses, for example, it may trigger an alarm and send an alert to your phone.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity of the sensor determines the type of movement that triggers a detection. The Type of movement may be determined as the height or weight of the moving object. For example, you can set your sensor so that it is only triggered by the movement of an object that is heavier than 10 pounds. This is useful for ensuring that your motion sensor doesn't blare an alarm every time Fido the dog walks across the carpet.
Connection
A motion sensor system can either be connected wirelessly or by electrical cables. Both connection types have their advantages and disadvantages. For example, wired connections tend to have longer ranges and are relatively cheap, but they can fail when the wire is accidentally cut. Wireless connections are easy to set up, are relatively versatile, but they tend to be expensive and have short ranges.
Sensing Technology
Lastly, you should also consider the sensing technology employed by your system. Different sensing technologies exist, and as you would expect, they all have their pros and cons. Here are three common types of sensing technologies:
- Ultrasonic – highly sensitive, but expensive
- Microwave – sensitive, but use a lot of power
- Infrared – inexpensive and durable
As you can see, motion sensors come with very different features. Therefore, you need to analyze the available offers carefully before making a purchase. Remember, you aren't just buying one for the homeowners insurance; you also need to protect your home.
