Alarm King

What is a Pet-Friendly Alarm?

A pet-friendly alarm system is not fundamentally different from a standard home alarm system in terms of the control panel and main functionalities. The distinction lies in the motion sensors used with the system, which are designed to be pet tolerant.

Pet-Tolerant PIRs:

These passive infrared (PIR) sensors are engineered to ignore movements at floor level or movements from animals weighing up to 35kgs. This means your small to medium-sized pets can move around freely without setting off the alarm.

How Do Pet-Friendly PIRs Work?

PIR sensors detect changes in the level of passive infrared energy in the environment, which usually occurs when a person enters a room due to the higher infrared energy emitted by humans compared to the surroundings. Pet-friendly PIRs modify this functionality by not reacting to the lower levels of heat emitted by pets. They use a combination of size, weight, and movement patterns to differentiate between pets and potential intruders.

Considerations for Pets and Alarm Systems

Cats and Dogs:

While cats and dogs under 35kg generally won't trigger a pet-friendly alarm, their ability to jump onto higher surfaces like window sills or countertops could lead to false alarms. It’s important to consider the typical behavior of your pets when installing sensors.

Larger Pets:

If you own larger pets, standard pet-friendly PIRs might not suffice as they can trigger the alarm. In such cases, alternative strategies like installing door contacts or glass break detectors, which activate the alarm if a door or window is opened or glass is broken, might be more effective.

Benefits of Smart Alarm Systems for Pet Owners

Smart alarms, which often come with camera-equipped PIRs, offer a significant advantage. If the alarm is triggered, these cameras can send snapshots directly to your smartphone, allowing you to see immediately whether the trigger was caused by an intruder or your pet. This feature not only provides peace of mind but also prevents unnecessary stress for both you and your neighbors.

Cost of Pet-Friendly Alarms

The cost of installing a pet-friendly alarm should be comparable to a standard alarm system if only the sensors are adjusted for pet tolerance. Be wary of providers who charge a premium for pet-friendly features without justification. Additional costs might apply if alternative detection strategies or smart features are employed.

Installation Considerations

For renters, wireless systems that can be installed without drilling are ideal, as they minimize potential damage to the property. Many wireless pet-friendly systems come with options for non-permanent installation, such as using adhesive strips instead of screws.

Final Thoughts

Pet-friendly alarms offer an excellent way to secure your home without compromising the comfort of your pets. By choosing the right sensors and considering your pets’ behaviors, you can effectively prevent false alarms and ensure your home’s security system works harmoniously with your furry family members. If you're looking to get an accurate cost estimate or need more tailored advice, consider reaching out to a professional security consultant or using an online cost calculator tailored to pet-friendly systems.