Get your sensors ready for the change of seasons
Across the northern hemisphere, the darker evenings are quickly drawing in and temperatures are dropping. With this change in the seasons, it’s important to maintain your security system in the case of an unwanted intruder.
OPTEX’s detectors are designed to perform even in difficult situations such as extreme cold and warmth, light and humidity thanks to the intelligent sensing technology and high-quality construction. For example, our short-range volumetric sensors (VX and WX) and our curtain sensors (BX) can operate in -20⁰C to +45⁰C to -30⁰C to +60⁰C. These sensors are also IP55 rated meaning that they can withstand dust and water jets against the enclosure at any angle. In our latest Tech Tip, our team share their best advice on how to prepare for Autumn and Winter.
Clean the detector
Any build up or debris can affect the performance of your sensors. Use a damp cloth to give the detector a wipe over, paying particular attention to the lens.
Inspect the unit for water ingress
Open the unit and check for any signs around the seals for water ingress, indications of water ingress can be excessive moisture in the detector or the growth of moss around the seals. Clean the seals if necessary and check that the mounting screws have been properly sealed.
Test heaters (where applicable)
If your sensor has heaters (e.g. beam towers), check they are still working effectively by triggering the thermostat test to ensure that when the frosty weather kicks in, your sensors will still work in freezing temperatures.
Check your batteries
If your sensor is wireless, check the battery level by checking the voltage with a voltmeter, the low battery trigger voltage varies, depending on the product, but is typically around 2.3v. If your battery level is close to this level, it may be worth contacting your local distributor to get a replacement to ensure you have coverage for winter and don’t require a costly call out over Christmas.
Walk test the detectors
Whilst making sure your system is ready for the change of seasons, it’s the perfect time to walk test your sensors to ensure that they were working optimally. To do this start by walking the at the edge of the detection zone slowly walking in a serpentine pattern inward, if your detector is battery operated do not forget to take it out of battery saving mode to perform the walk test and restore it when you are finished.
Inspect the environment to ensure the detection zone is sterile
Over the warmer months it is possible for vegetation to grow into the detection area which can cause missed alarms and false alarms. Check the environment to eliminate any vegetation which can affect the performance of your detection.
