DIY: Door & Window Alarm Sensors

Make a list of all the doors and windows where you want to set up sensors. Not only will this list indicate how many sensors you need to purchase, but it will be helpful when determining the layout of the system.

Install the door sensors. Each sensor is composed of two parts, and when these two parts separate, they trigger the alarm. Stand in front of the door with the door closed, on the inside of the house. Place the larger part of the sensor on the door at the top corner opposite the hinges. The smaller part of the sensor lines up with the larger section and is attached to the door frame. Attach the sensor pieces with screws. Repeat this procedure for other exterior doors.

Install the window sensors. Set up the sensor so that when the window is opened the sensor pieces move away from each other. For instance, if you have a window that opens like a door, attach the larger sensor part to the body of the window and the smaller part to the frame on the opposite side from the hinges. Repeat this procedure on other windows.

Install the keypad in a place it has access to both electricity and phone connections, if needed. It also needs to be accessible fairly quickly from the most commonly used exterior door. This is because many systems require the code to be punched in within 30 to 60 seconds of opening a door to avoid triggering the alarm.