Smoke detectors as part of a security system are designed to detect the presence of smoke. We’ll cover the advantages to having a photoelectric smoke detector as part of a security system versus a smoke detector purchased from a box or hardware store. How smoke detectors work Photoelectric smoke detectors as part of a security […]
Category: Sensors & Detectors
Heat Sensors in a Security System
Heat sensors as part of a security system are fire detection devices that detect when temperatures have reached a certain high level. Heat sensors can be wired or wireless and can be set to trigger when temperatures reach 135 or 200 degrees. There are two kinds of heat sensors: fixed sensors and fixed/rate-of-rise sensors. Fixed […]
Security Screens in a Security System
Security screens are good for keeping people in a residence as well as keeping intruders out. They are typically used in group home settings or other monitored facilities, although they may also be helpful in a home with small children. Security screens can be made to fit any size window. Advantages of having security screens […]
Window Sensors in a Security System
Window sensors let you know if a window has been cranked or slid open. These types of sensors tend to be found more in homes rather than businesses, as there are not as many windows that open in commercial buildings. Window sensors are another layer in perimeter protection and can be useful both for guarding […]
Temperature Sensors in a Security System
When you’re away from your home or business, you want to have peace of mind that your place will be fine. But what if the furnace stops working at the cabin during winter? What if the freezer in your grocery store malfunctions? Temperature sensors can alert you to extreme conditions and keep you from costly […]
A Cellular Communicator in a Security System
No landline? No problem. Like many households, you probably don’t have a landline. Even without a landline, you can still have a monitored security system as long as you get a cellular communicator. Cellular communicators function as the primary method of communication between your alarm system and the 24/7 response center. They communicate with the […]
Water Sensors in a Security System
If spring leaves you with a sinking feeling because you know your sump pump will start running, a water sensor could help you. As part of a security system, water sensors are designed to alert you to potential water issues, such as a failing sump pump, drain back-up, or sewer back-up, before costly damage occurs. […]
Sirens and Strobes in a Security System
Written by Chuck Amundson As an in-office technician, I get asked a lot of times, “Should I have an outdoor siren or indoor siren for my alarm system?” Many people think their neighbors will check out their house if the siren were blasting in the neighborhood. That may be true in some cases, but not […]
Key Fobs in a Security System
Much like a remote start for a vehicle, key fobs provide a convenient way to arm and disarm a security system without standing right by the keypad. Just like a remote start, you must be within a small distance to the house, generally around 50 feet. You can also use a key fob within a […]
Carbon Monoxide Detectors in a Security System
Carbon monoxide detectors are designed to monitor levels of carbon monoxide – a colorless, odorless gas also known as “the silent killer.” Carbon monoxide detectors search for the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) and a siren sounds if too much CO is present. CO detectors are essentially time weighted — they can sound off if there […]