Door contacts
A magnet on the door and a sensor on the frame. Opening the door separates them and the sensor reports it.
Usually goes: Every exterior door, the garage entry door and basement doors.
Guide · Devices
Wireless alarm sensors, explained
What each wireless device does and where it usually goes, from door contacts to flood sensors.
Door contacts, a motion detector and a key fob are a common starting point for a home system, and AWS's main site covers protection from the perimeter through to smoke, fire and flood detection. Here is what each type of device generally does.
Window contacts
The same magnet-and-sensor pair, sized for window sashes.
Usually goes: Ground-floor and basement windows and any window someone can reach from outside.
Motion detectors
A passive infrared sensor that notices a warm body moving across its view. Used in Away mode as a second layer behind the doors and windows.
Usually goes: Hallways, stair bottoms, and rooms with many windows. Pet-friendly models exist; tell AWS about pets.
Glass-break detectors
Listens for the sound pattern of breaking glass, so one device can cover a room full of windows.
Usually goes: Rooms with large or many windows, and storefronts.
Keyfobs
A small remote on your key ring to arm and disarm without going to the keypad.
Usually goes: Carried by each household member or key holder.
Keypads and touchscreens
Where you arm, disarm and see system status. The control panel itself is usually a keypad or touchscreen.
Usually goes: Near the main entry door, plus a second keypad by the bedroom or back door if needed.
Smoke and heat detection
Reports smoke or fire to the panel, which sounds the alarm and alerts the monitoring center.
Usually goes: Each level, near sleeping areas, and in kitchens (heat) and utility rooms.
Flood sensors
A sensor that sits on the floor and reports water before a small leak becomes a big one.
Usually goes: By the water heater, washing machine, sump pump and under sinks.
General information. This page explains how wireless security systems commonly work. Equipment, placement and options for your property are decided with AWS. Call (440) 210-9900.
Ask AWS which sensors your property needs
AWS designs the system for your location, works out the best places for each device, and installs and configures everything. Call, or schedule a consultation online.