Door Security Alarm: A Buyer’s Guide

Majority of home break-ins are the result of opportunity. Most burglars don’t want to go to crazy lengths just to get into your home. In fact, homes with security systems are three times less likely to become targets for burglars. 

The most common way for burglars to break into a house without any kind of security system is through an unlocked door. Compared to breaking a window, kicking down a locked door would make less noise and would not pose a risk to a burglar. 

As such, a door alarm is necessary not only to warn the owners of any burglary attempt, but also to deter and scare off anyone wanting to break into your home. If you are interested in buying a door security alarm, continue reading our guide below.

What Are Door Security Alarms?

Nowadays, many people install door alarms in their homes in case someone were to try and break in. The basic functioning of a door alarm is to set off an alarm when a door is opened without authorization. 

This kind of alarms represent the ultimate perimetral defense for your home. They are easy to install and helpful for both deterring a burglar and  keeping an eye on the kids; for instance, parents may put a door alarm in their children’s bedrooms to prevent harm.

Other additional benefits of installing alarms on your doors include:

Easy Connection

Connecting door alarms to your existing home security system is simple. Even while you’re gone, a smart home security system together with a door alarm has the ability to inform you if your door is forcefully opened.

Wireless Installation

A cellular or broadband internet connection is generally used to link your home system to the majority of door alarms, which typically operate on a wireless system. This means that you don’t need to place your door alarms close to outlets.

Affordable

Door alarms add an additional layers of security to your home without the need for professional installation. Additionally, they are considerably less expensive than equipping your home with a full security system.

Remote Operation

Door alarms can be operated even when you’re away from your home. You can configure your door alarms to only alert you when the contact sensor is activated, allowing you to effectively monitor your home without having to manually operate it. Also, You can usually disarm the device if you need to let someone past your door alarm.

How Do Door Alarms Work?

Door alarms usually operate using a contact sensor. This type of sensor is composed of two main parts, which are a magnet and a sensor. Such mechanism is also known as the magnet switch. The magnet itself is generally installed on the door while the sensor is placed on the door frame. The alarm is activated when the door is opened without authorization or when the door is forced open by an intruder. 

Types Of Door Security Alarms

Here are some of the most common types of door alarms you’ll see on the market today.

Door-Open Alarms

When a door is opened by an intruder and left open for a predetermined amount of time, door-open alarms go off. It is possible to program the door-held-open time, which is used to verify whether a door is opened by someone who has actually been granted access. The door-open alarm warns the owner by producing a chime, a loud siren sound or a flashing light, or both.

Door-open alarms are also known as door-left-open alarms or door-held-open alarms due to the working mechanism behind them. The door alarm generates a loud chime when the contact between the magnet and the sensor is broken.

Door-Forced-Open Alarms

Door-forced-open alarms activate when a door is opened by force, activating the magnet switch contact. For instance, if an intruder tries to break in the front door without authorization, the door alarm will go off. 

Motion Sensor Door Alarms

Every time movement is detected, motion-activated door alarms go off. Motion alarms work in a similar fashion to motion lights. An alarm is set off when someone approaches the vicinity of where the sensor is placed. 

Important Door Alarm Features To Consider

Each door alarm offers its own unique benefits. Here are some of the features you might want to look for when you shop for door alarms:

Remote Accessability

It best to install a door alarm that you can arm and disarm remotely so operating it wouldn’t be a hassle for you. If the alarm comes with a corresponding app, you can use your phone to turn it on and off even when you’re away from home.

Pet Protection

Door alarms with pet protection have motion sensors that can distinguish between an intruder and a pet. This prevents the alarm from going off when your pet is walking around the house. 

Camera Access

Some door alarms have built-in security cameras. This feature is immensely useful when you want to keep an eye on your house while you’re away. Camera-equipped door alarms can also help you identify intruders.

Do you have home security installed? Check out the benefits of a smart home security system in this article by Security Forward.