How to Install a Passive Infrared Motion Sensor

An infrared motion sensor in your home will allow you to feel safer than before. This is because it will detect motion both inside and outside of your home when you activate it. Having a professional come to your home to hook it up is recommended but not required. You can do it yourself if you would like. The task is somewhat challenging, and if you feel you cannot continue through with the project then a professional should be called.

Step 1- Choosing a Sensor and an Area

You will want to find out where the motion sensor or sensors will go in your home. Find out where an intruder is most likely to gain access to your home. Many people choose to put them in hallways or stairwells. The front or back porches are other places that are helpful to place one as well. Infrared motion sensors detect heat, so ensure that you’re not placing one in front of a heat vent, radiator, or windows that get the most sunlight. Windows that headlights shine through at night are also not a good option to place one next to as well.

If aiming the sensor is a problem, then you will want to choose a sensor that includes microwave and infrared technology. Choose either a wired or wireless security system to go with. You will need to drill holes to access the home wires for the hard-wired systems for the control panel. If the wireless home system you chose does not have a lithium battery power supply then you will have to find a power source to plug it into.

Step 2- Installing the Motion Sensor in your Home

Make sure to read all of the installation instructions that came with the motion sensor you chose. Mount the sensor into the wall using your drill and screws, and aim the sensor away from any heat sources. If the system you chose is hard wired then you will want to route the sensor wire along the baseboard, and through the walls to the sensor control panel. Connect the wire to the input. For a wireless sensor, you only have to root one wire to the power source. If the wireless sensor has a lithium battery then you do not have to route any wires for it at all. Adjust the sensitivity of the sensor with the knobs or levers that are on the control panel device. Make sure to follow the laws, rules, and guidelines of your state when installing electrical devices since your state may require you to be a licensed electrician. If you have to aim the sensor towards a heat source, then you can mask the sensor so it does not see the heat source close to it. Once you have all the extras hooked up, and tweaked to how you like it, then you can feel safe knowing it will catch any intruders that might try to get in.