The saying, "A chain is only as strong as it's weakest link," is certainly true for your home's security.
Burglars always gravitate towards the entryway that's easiest to break - which can be your first floor or basement windows.
While there are a variety of security options for your windows, this article discusses one that integrates directly with your security system: glass break sensors.
Glass sensors are security system add-ons that work by triggering your alarm when a window breaks.
But there are different types of glass-break sensors. Read on to learn how they work and which one is right for you.
Acoustic glass-break sensors
Acoustic glass-break sensors are "sound discriminators." They listen only for the sound of breaking glass and respond by setting off your security system's alarm.
These sensors are usually mounted on the ceiling or wall in a room that has multiple windows. That way you only need one sensor to cover multiple windows within a 30-40 ft area of the sensor.
Of course, the main problem with acoustic sensors is with false alarms. The detector cannot differentiate between the sound of your window's glass breaking and any other glass.
To ensure that the sensor works properly, make sure you don't have heavy drapes blocking the windows so that the sound of breaking glass can reach the sensor.
Shock glass-break detectors
Shock glass-break detectors are wirelessly mounted on your windows and feel the vibrations generated by breaking glass. They trigger your alarms when they sense the vibrations of shattering glass.
Shock detectors, while offering less false alarms, must be mounted on each inpidual window.
So which one is right for you?
Honestly, the one that's right for you depends on your home. We believe in custom solutions to adjust to your needs.
Look at your home from a burglar's point of view. Which windows are easily accessible? Which ones are out of sight from people in your neighborhood? Which windows have something (or someone) important behind them?
If many of these windows are in the same area, it makes sense to use acoustic glass break sensors because they can cover a wider area at less cost.
However, if you have one window per room, it may make more sense to use shock detectors.
So, depending on your living situation, you could benefit from a mix of shock detectors and acoustic sensors for maximum protection.
Ackerman Security is dedicated to protecting you, your family, your home and your belongings. To find out more about what kind of security system can work best for you, ask one of our experts in the Atlanta or DC-area.