Just realized I've been leaving out sound sensors in pet homes

I put in an alarm for a house with three dogs last month and the sound detectors went off all the time. I mean, most installers say they're key for security, but idk, maybe it's just me. I think skipping them cuts down on false alarms and keeps the client happy. What do you all do about sensors in places with animals?

3 comments

3 Comments

emery_black2mo ago

Actually used to tell clients sound sensors were non-negotiable. Fought with other installers about it. Your post is right though, constant false alarms from pets barking or just moving around make the whole system useless. Now I skip them in homes with animals every time. The client gets a reliable system and doesn't hate their alarm. False alarms ruin your reputation faster than anything.

the_kim2mo ago

You say false alarms ruin your reputation, but what about missing a real break-in? Sound sensors catch things motion detectors don't, like glass breaking or forced entry sounds. With smart placement and sensitivity settings, you can cut down on pet triggers a lot. Just skipping them seems like a lazy fix that leaves clients less protected. A good installer should figure out how to make them work, not just avoid the hassle!

drew_reed622mo ago

Man, you're not wrong about the extra layer of protection. But after my third call to a client at 2 AM because their new puppy had a dream about squirrels, I had to tap out. My reputation was becoming "that guy who wakes you up for no reason." I'd rather have a system that works 100% of the time for the big stuff than one that catches everything but cries wolf twice a week. It's a tough call, but reliable and quiet wins for me now.