Quck answer
To disable a window sensor on a house alarm, follow these steps:
1. Locate the control panel of your house alarm system. It is usually installed in a convenient area, such as near the main entrance or in a utility room.
2. Open the control panel and find the zone list or sensor configuration menu. This menu displays all the sensors connected to your alarm system.
3. Identify the window sensor you want to disable. Each sensor is usually labeled with a number or name for easy identification.
4. Select the window sensor from the list and choose the option to disable or bypass it. This will prevent the sensor from triggering the alarm when the window is opened.
5. Save the changes and exit the control panel. Your window sensor is now disabled and will not activate the alarm.
Remember to only disable a window sensor if necessary, as it may compromise the security of your house. It is recommended to consult the user manual or contact the alarm system provider for more specific instructions.
If you have window alarms, it is necessary to disable them in order to open the windows without triggering the alarm and causing a disturbance in the house. If your house is connected to a security network, attempting to let some fresh air in could result in a visit from a security official or the police.
Depending on the type of sensor you have, you may be able to manually disable it. However, the safest way to disable any type of security sensor is to temporarily bypass its zone in the control panel of the security system. The drawback of this method is that the bypass will be cancelled if you rearm the system, leading to the alarm going off. If you need to keep the window open for a while, it is best to permanently bypass the zone and reprogram it when you eventually close the window.
Disabling Magnetic Sensors
The movable part of a magnetic sensor, which is attached to the window, appears as a rectangular plastic pill box without any visible buttons or mechanisms. When the magnetic attraction between the movable part and the stationary part attached to the window frame — the part connected to the network — is interrupted, the alarm is triggered. It may be possible to deceive the sensor using a kitchen magnet.
To do this, you must hold the magnet as close to the stationary sensor as possible. This requires opening the window to expose the sensor, so if you fail to turn off the system, the alarm may briefly sound. Once the window is open, you can tape the magnet to the sensor. You can even detach the movable part of the sensor from the window and attach it to the window frame to trick the sensor into thinking the window is still closed.
Disabling Button-Type Sensors
Button-type sensors have a visible button that is pressed down by a probe attached to the window. When the window is opened, the probe releases the button and triggers the alarm. This type of sensor is easier to disable than a magnetic sensor because you simply need to hold down the button while opening the window and then use an object to keep the button pressed. Tape alone will not work, but if you place a small, hard object on the tape and secure it so that the object pushes against the button, it should work.
When it is time to close the window, you will need to briefly release the button, so ensure that the alarm is turned off. Once the probe on the window fully presses down the button, it is safe to reactivate the alarm.
Bypassing the Window Sensor
The method for bypassing a zone on your central control board varies depending on the home security system, so refer to the owner’s manual for your system to obtain specific instructions. If other windows are included in the zone, they will also be disabled. If you temporarily disable the zone, you can reactivate it by rearming the system. If you permanently disable the zone in order to keep the window open, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for reprogramming that zone into the system when you wish to reactivate the alarm.
