by Christopher Skjonsby

Created on: October 18, 2007   Last Updated: April 13, 2011

Choosing the right detectors for your home security system is an important task. The choice of sensors will determine the extent of how you operate your home security system. Having a system that is transparent to the occupants of the house is very important. Understanding the types of detectors and the functionality they provide will help inform your security system purchase.

Life Safety Devices

Smoke Detector This device detects smoke in the air and triggers a Fire Alarm on your security system. The monitoring station should have this device setup to dispatch the Fire Department to your home.

Carbon Monoxide Detector This device detects deadly CO gas in your home. Your installer should mount this at the proper height to protect you while you are sleeping.

Heat Detector Ideal for use in kitchens and garages this device will not trip do to smoke. It takes a certain amount of heat for a small strip of solder to melt. When it does the system responds according to a Fire Alarm.

Property Protection Devices

Water Bug This device should be installed in low lying areas of the home where water would pool or close to the hot water tank. When water is detected the monitoring station can notify you or your contacts before a flood causes extensive damage.

Temperature Sensor Providing both a High Temperature and Low

Temperature Alarm this device can protect your home in the event of a furnace malfunction by notifying you or your contacts before water pipes freeze or a fire begins. The Low Temp Sensor should be located in the lower part of your home while the High Temp Sensor should be located in the attic.

Intrusion Devices

Door or Window Contact A simple magnetic contact to monitor if a door or window is open or shut. This is a perimeter device.

Window Screen A wired screen allows a window to remain open while keeping your perimeter armed. Fully tampered the screen cannot be removed or cut while the system is armed. These are a perimeter device.

Glass Break Detector This device picks up the sound of glass breaking in a general radius. This is a perimeter device.

PIR Motion Detector Passive Infra-Red motion detectors look for changes in room temperature. PIRs are prone to false alarm and care has to be taken in there mounting location.

Microwave Motion Detector Watching for movement instead of heat these detectors can be tripped by piece of paper flapping near a window.

Dual-Tech Motion Detectors A combination of PIR and Microwave technology delivers a solid Motion Detector. They cancel each other's weaknesses and provide a combination of both advantages.

A special note about Motion Detectors and Perimeter devices. A perimeter device will trigger your alarm system while the assailant is still on the outside of your home. Motion detectors are for use if your perimeter has been breached. You will substantially reduce or eliminate your loss if you can deter an assailant before they enter the home. Building a strong perimeter is more important than covering the interior with motion detectors. Motion detectors prevent ease of movement around your home when the system is armed.

Choosing the right detector can be the difference between an effective system or not. Careful considerations should be taken on how devices will impact your life. Having the freedom to open a window on a warm summer night, knowing you aren't inviting someone in. Being able to get up for a glass of water in the middle of the night, without the fear of triggering the siren. These are factors you need to discuss with a alarm company representative.

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