Motion sensors are one of the most important components of a modern security system—but where you place them matters just as much as having them. Poor placement can lead to missed activity or constant false alarms, while proper placement maximizes coverage and reliability.
Here’s a practical guide to where motion sensors work best and how to get the most out of them.
1. Entry Points and High-Traffic Areas
The most effective place for motion sensors is near common entry points. These areas are where intruders are most likely to pass through.
Best locations include:
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Near front and back doors
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Hallways that connect multiple rooms
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Staircases
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Main living areas
By placing sensors where movement is unavoidable, you increase the chances of detection without needing excessive coverage.
2. Corners of Rooms for Wider Coverage
Mounting motion sensors in the corner of a room allows them to cover a wider field of view. Most sensors are designed to detect movement across their field rather than straight toward them, so angled placement improves accuracy.
Ideal height:
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About 6 to 8 feet off the floor
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Angled slightly downward toward the main walking path
This setup helps detect motion quickly while minimizing blind spots.
3. Avoid Windows, Vents, and Heat Sources
Motion sensors can be triggered by rapid temperature changes or moving air, which can cause false alarms.
Avoid placing sensors near:
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Windows with direct sunlight
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HVAC vents
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Fireplaces or space heaters
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Large appliances that emit heat
Professional installation helps ensure sensors are positioned to avoid these issues while still providing strong coverage.
4. Bedrooms and Private Areas (Optional but Strategic)
While not always necessary, motion sensors in bedroom hallways or near master bedrooms can add an extra layer of security—especially at night.
These placements:
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Provide early alerts
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Add peace of mind while sleeping
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Act as a final detection point if other sensors are bypassed
5. Pet-Friendly Placement
If you have pets, sensor placement becomes even more important. Pet-immune motion sensors should be installed higher and angled correctly to ignore movement below a certain weight.
Tips for pet owners:
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Mount sensors higher on the wall
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Avoid aiming toward furniture pets can climb
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Use sensors designed for pet activity
Catawba Security systems can be customized to accommodate pets without sacrificing protection.
6. Garages and Basements
Garages and basements are common access points that are often overlooked.
Consider installing motion sensors:
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Near interior doors connecting the garage to the home
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Along basement stairwells
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In unfinished areas with limited visibility
These locations help detect movement before intruders reach main living spaces.
Professional Placement Makes the Difference
While DIY placement may seem simple, professional installation ensures your motion sensors are calibrated correctly, positioned strategically, and integrated seamlessly with the rest of your security system.
At Catawba Security, we design systems that provide maximum protection with minimal false alarms—so your home or business stays secure without the frustration.
