This article was machine-translated from French and is being reviewed. Prices are in Algerian dinars excl. VAT.
False alarms usually have a simple cause: a poorly placed detector, a weak battery, an overly sensitive setting or a user who forgets the procedure. They are avoided with four actions: properly placing detectors, setting the control panel for your use, maintaining the installation and training users. A false alarm annoys neighbors and staff. Over time, people stop reacting to a real one.
In short
- Common causes: animals, drafts, sunlight, weak batteries, poorly set zones and delays, user errors.
- Correct at installation (placement, settings), then over time (tests, batteries, training).
- Do not lower sensitivity at all costs. A detector that is too insensitive will let a real intrusion pass.
Common causes of false alarms
| Cause | What happens | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| Animals, insects | A motion detector reacts to a warm body or an insect on the lens | Adjust the sensitivity, choose a model designed for small animals (see its datasheet), clean the lens. |
| Drafts, air conditioner, radiator | Heat varies, light objects move | Do not aim at an air vent or heat source; secure curtains and posters |
| Sunlight | A direct beam or reflection heats the lens | Do not aim at a window or sunny display case |
| Low battery | The detector signals a fault, then the link to the panel can become unstable. | Check battery level, replace on time |
| Wrong zone | A detector on the entry path has no entry delay | Set delays and groups (see below) |
| Poorly installed opening contact | A vibrating door or magnet too far away | Secure firmly and align |
| User | Failure to disarm, window not closed properly, object moved | Clear procedure and training |
Control panel and detector settings
- Entry and exit delays. They give time to disarm on entry and to arm after leaving. Set them according to the actual route to where you disarm: keypad, remote or phone. The possible settings depend on the panel.
- Partial armament. If the control panel offers a partial mode or groups, arm only doors and windows in the presence of staff. Motion detectors remain inactive where movement occurs.
- Sensitivity. Start at a medium level. Perform a walk test, then change one setting at a time and note it.
- Dual‑technology detectors. A dual‑technology detector combines a passive infrared (PIR) sensor and a microwave sensor, and triggers only when both detect motion. It avoids certain false alarms. The shop lists a Chuango dual‑technology detector. It belongs to a different range than Ajax and Dahua: check its compatibility with your control panel before purchasing.
- Duration of the siren. If the control panel allows it, limit the siren duration to avoid disturbing neighbors.
- Image verification. A detector with camera shows what triggered the alert, such as MotionCAM Ajax or Dahua ARD1731-W. See also alarm or CCTV.
Good installation practices
Placement solves half the problems. The guide where to place detectors and siren gives height, angle and areas to avoid. Add three rules:
- Mount each detector on a stable support, free of vibration.
- Check the radio signal of each device before mounting. A weak signal causes link loss, see wired or wireless alarm.
- Redo a test after each change: new shelf, new fan, work.
Maintenance: actions that prevent false triggers
- Perform a walk test on each detector and a test of each contact. Follow the frequency recommended by your equipment manufacturer.
- Check battery level and radio signal. Replace batteries before they are low.
- Clean lenses with a dry cloth. Check magnet alignment.
- Read the event history. A detector that triggers often at the same time reveals the cause: sun, air‑conditioner, animal, staff passage.
Train users
- Write a short procedure: close doors and windows, arm, exit within the time limit.
- Give each person their remote or code, if the control panel manages codes per user. Remove them when they leave the company.
- Explain what to do when the alarm sounds: not just stop it, but check history, verify location and note cause.
- Inform cleaning staff and delivery people of your schedules. Train each new employee on day one.
Frequently asked questions
How many false alarms are normal?
No number applies to all premises. If triggers repeat, a cause exists and can be found. Record the time and detector in the history.
Should a detector’s sensitivity be lowered?
As a last resort. First check location, batteries and delays. If you lower sensitivity, redo a walk test to confirm the detector still sees a person crossing the room.
Is a pet in the area compatible with the alarm?
Yes, with a detector designed for small animals (see its datasheet), good placement and tested settings. Otherwise, arm in partial mode when the animal is present.
AsloTech holds type I approval No. 207 dated March 17, 2025 from the Ministry of Interior (extent of approval). To have an installation that triggers without reason inspected, request a visit: discover our intrusion and fire alarm solution or the alarm and fire category in the store.