How to Add a Motion Sensor to My Home Alarm System
- 1). Select a sensor system that will work with your existing alarm system. For example, use a wireless system if you have a wireless security system or a hardwired system if that is what you have in place.
- 2). Pick an appropriate location to mount the infrared motion sensor. Identify a spot where the sensor won’t trigger a false alarm, sensing heat from vent ducts and windows or from exterior lights that shine through a window. Refer to the sensor's instruction manual and follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding how far away from any potential heat source the unit should be placed and how to aim the lens on the motion detector unit.
- 3). Turn off electrical power to the alarm system. Drill holes for screws to attach the sensor unit(s) to the wall(s). If you are installing a hardwired system, route the wires along the baseboards or through walls, so the wires lead to your control panel.
- 4). Use staples to attach the wires for a hardwired unit to the top edge of baseboards or along the floor edge -- whichever will provide a better appearance. Skip step 5 if you are installing a hardwired system, and proceed to steps 6 through 9.
- 5). Connect the wireless system to a power source (if electricity is required), or install the battery if you are using a battery-powered motion sensor. Follow remaining instructions as provided by the sensor manufacturer, attach the motion sensor unit to the wall, and proceed to step 9.
- 6). Open the back plate of the unit to continue installation of a hardwired motion sensor. Most units have a knockout circle you can unscrew with a screwdriver or clamps you depress to open the back plate.
- 7). Connect the white, red and black wires to the unit, and work the wires through the gasket at the base of the unit. Attach the unit back to the wall, using the knockout screw holes. Seal any openings with caulk to prevent water leakage and excessive air infiltration that might trigger a false alarm, and to keep the wires secure.
- 8). Run the wires to the control panel for the alarm system. Open the control panel box, identify the corresponding screw connectors for the wires, and connect the wires so the red wire leading from the unit connects to the nut connector for the red wire on the control panel. Repeat the process for the black and white wires. If there is a green or ground wire, attach it to the corresponding nut wire on the control panel.
- 9). Turn on the electric power supply for your security alarm and motion sensor system. Test the system to determine whether it is operating properly by walking in front of the infrared device to see whether the alarm goes off. If the alarm does not go off, refer to troubleshooting instructions provided by the manufacturer for aiming the lens and wiring connections.
