Auto arming

[tshephard]

I'm thinking of having my HomeSeer auto arm the alarm if we forget to.

What things should I look for that would show an empty house? I only have two motion sensors upstairs so that would not be my only indication. I guess I could go with how long certain lights have been off.

Any ideas on this?

 

[video321]

Any ideas on this?

I have absolutely none :unsure:
Don't see how you could pull that off with 2 motion detectors upstairs. Lights, at least in my situation, wouldn't do me any good either. I don't have any lights on when sitting at the kitchen table on Sunday morning or watching TV at night - only dimmed lights that would be on if I'm home or not.

edit...do you mind if I ask you why your motion detectors are only upstairs? Are they for occupancy only?

 

[tshephard]

The two are on the alarm but also used for occupancy. They were easy to wire, thats why they are done. So maybe I'll need to add more downstairs before I do this.

 

[sic0048]

If you are using motion sensors vs ocupancy sensors, you will probably run into issues. Most alarm motion sensors require quite a bit of movement to trigger them. This is done to prevent false alarms that might occur when the HVAC comes on and blows the curtains or a balloon floating, etc, etc, etc. This high threshold usually means it will not trigger when someone is sitting down reading, watching TV, etc.

Occupancy detectors are much more sensitive, but generally are not recommended for alarm usage because you will get more false alarms.

You really need occupancy detectors for a situation like you are describing.

 

[tshephard]

You really need occupancy detectors for a situation like you are describing.

Anyone one the board using occupancy sensors for this? I would like to hear some first hand experience.