The Importance of Door Alarm Sensors for Home Security

Entry sensors are a must for any home security system, whether you’re protecting a one-bedroom apartment or a three-story house. Simple and discrete, entry sensors are some of the best ways to secure the entrances of your home and receive alerts if an unwanted visitor ever breaches those entrances. No wonder entry sensors are one of SimpliSafe’s most purchased products! 

Read on to learn more about entry sensors, how they work and protect. 

What are entry sensors and how do they work? 

Entry sensors are fundamental components of any home security systems and are designed to detect unauthorized entry and enhance the overall security of your home. When a door or window is opened or tampered with, the sensor triggers the central hub to set off an alarm, ultimately alerting the homeowner or a monitoring service. The idea is that the burglar will be caught off guard, and will leave the property before causing further damage. 

Though entry sensors may be slightly different depending on the company and manufacturer, the basic concept revolves around two main components:

• Sensor: This part is typically placed on the door frame. It consists of a magnet and a reed switch. When the door is closed, the magnet holds the reed switch in a closed position, completing an electrical circuit. This means the sensor is in a "normal" or "closed" state, signifying that the entry point is secure.

• Magnet: The magnet is installed on the moving part of the door. When the door is opened, the magnet moves away from the reed switch. This separation disrupts the magnetic field and causes the reed switch to open the circuit, triggering the alarm.

When the intruder pushes or jiggles the door, the magnet (attached to the door) moves away from the sensor (mounted on the door frame). This action disrupts the magnetic field and triggers the sensor.

Next, the smart entry sensor sends an immediate alert to the central hub of your home security system, setting off the alarm. At the exact moment this happens, your smartphone receives a real-time notification through the security app you've installed. The notification informs you of the security breach, complete with details about which entry point has been tampered with. At this point, you can call the authorities or dispatch a neighbor to check. With professional monitoring, the authorities will be notified automatically. 

What are the security benefits of entry sensors? 

With so many different home security devices available, it can be difficult knowing what’s worth investing in. A good place to start is to understand the unique advantages of various devices. Entry sensors provide several essential benefits for enhancing home security:

• Effective deterrence: Similar to security yard signs, visible door sensors deter potential intruders from targeting your home in the first place because they signal the home is protected by a security system.

• Remote access: It goes without saying that any security device is better than none when it comes to protecting your home. But, because entry sensors can come with remote monitoring via smartphone apps allows homeowners to stay connected and respond to alerts, even when away from home.

• Integration: Door sensors seamlessly integrate with security systems, providing a comprehensive security solution. 

• Cost-effective: Entry sensors are a cost-effective security measure, which can be helpful if you're on a tight budget. 

• Customizable: Tailor these sensors to your specific security needs, securing entry points and even interior doors.

How do I choose the right entry sensor? 

Now that you know what entry sensors can do for your home security, how do you choose the right one? Here are some tips if you’re in the research process:

• Assess needs: Identify the entry points, type of doors/windows, and any automation requirements. Does the company sell the entry sensors in sets?

• Smart compatibility: If you have a smart home system, ensure compatibility for remote monitoring, professional monitoring, and overall connectivity with the rest of your smart home security devices.

• Budget: Compare the cost of entry sensors at different companies. Be sure to check what features each one has, and whether or not you can get a discount if you purchase a more comprehensive home security system. 

• Reviews: Check customer reviews for insights into sensor reliability, as well as the company who makes them. You may also want to reach out to friends and neighbors to see which systems are working for them!

• Installation ease: Determine if you want your entry sensors installed by yourself or by a professional. Most home security companies (SimpliSafe included) offer both installation options. 

• Warranty: Verify warranty coverage for peace of mind.

Installation and maintenance tips

Installation instructions will differ depending on the entry sensor itself. However, must follow the same flow:

• Choose sensor locations: Determine where you want to install the sensors. Common locations include exterior doors and windows.

• Position the sensor: Mount the sensor component on the door or window frame using screws. Use a level to ensure it's straight and secure.

• Position the magnet: Attach the magnet component to the door or window itself, aligned with the sensor. Make sure there is a small gap (usually about ½ inch) between the sensor and magnet when the door or window is closed. 

• Wireless sensors: For wireless sensors, follow manufacturer instructions to set up the sensors with your central hub or control panel. This may involve pairing them using a base station, keypad or smartphone app.

• Test the installation: After installation, test the sensors by opening and closing the door or window to ensure they trigger correctly. Adjust the positioning if needed.

Read SimpliSafe’s entry sensor installation instruction guide here.

Just as important as installation is maintenance. Consider following these maintenance tips:

• Regular checks: Periodically inspect the sensors to ensure they are clean, free from dust or debris, and securely fastened.

• Battery replacement: If your sensors use batteries, replace them according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Most sensors have a low-battery indicator.

• Testing: Routinely test the sensors by opening and closing the doors or windows they protect. This confirms they are still functioning correctly.

• Security system updates: If your sensors are part of a larger security system, ensure that the system's software and firmware are up-to-date for optimal performance. 

The bottom line

Installing entry sensors on your doors and windows is an affordable and easy way to keep your home safe from intruders. Whether you decide to start building your security system with these or add them as part of a more robust home security system, entry sensors can offer you the peace of mind you need when you leave home, when you go to sleep at night, or when your kids are home by themselves.  Learn more about SimpliSafe’s entry sensors today!