False alarms remain one of the most annoying problems for both residential and commercial security systems. Situations where an alarm system goes off without any actual danger can lead to stress, nagging the neighbours, and lack of trust in the system. A new cause of false alarms that are rarely recognised is Wi-Fi interference with passive infrared (PIR) motion sensors, smoke detector, Glass break detector etc.
How Passive Infrared Motion Sensors Work
Passive infrared (PIR) motion sensors are devices that detect changes in heat and recognize movement within their field of view. When kept in a clean environment, they can be trusted to work very well. However, in modern times, homes and offices have been equipped with routers, mesh systems, smart devices, and wireless access points, devices that not only transmit Wi-Fi but also generate electromagnetic energy.
How Wi-Fi Interferes with Motion Sensors
(Passive infrared (PIR) sensors are the most commonly used sensors in almost every alarm installation.)
Wi-Fi energy in certain situations or electromagnetic fields may act antagonistically with PIR motion sensors, notably with old or low-quality ones. The detector’s signal may get mixed up in this situation, and it may go off even if no one is moving.
The problem could be the same whether a motion sensor is hardwired or wireless since the interference is with the sensor unit itself and not with the alarm cables.
How We Identify the Real Cause
Rather than guessing, Pacific Security Technology uses professional RF and electromagnetic scanners to analyse the environment. By scanning the premises and the specific motion infrared sensor, we can clearly identify whether electromagnetic interference is present.
Our technicians often find that:
- The motion detector signals an alarm when a nearby Wi-Fi energy is being radiated
- The false alerts are almost like a pattern and can be repeated
- The problem arises from the surroundings and is not a defect of the wiring or the alarm panel
Just such a detailed diagnostic procedure gives the main problem identification and allows it to be the proper one.
Our Proven Solution for Hardwired Sensors
If the malfunctioning motion sensor is a hardwired one, the issue can be pacified permanently and very effectively by a solution from Pacific Security Technology.
We exchange the current detector with a specially shielded RF immune PIR sensor. These high-tech detectors have a metal body which works as the protective armor.
How this solves the problem:
- Wi-Fi energy or electromagnetic fields are allowed to meet the metal body of the sensor
- The energy is reflected rather than goes into the electronics
- The PIR detection circuitry is still operational
- The false alarms which were triggered by interference are got rid of
By doing this, the restored reliability of the system is achieved without any unnecessary rewiring or changing the whole alarm system.
What About Wireless Sensors?
If the sensor is wireless, Pacific Security Technology assesses placement, signal strength, and the surrounding RF environment. Using our scanners, we determine the most effective solution and provide clear, honest recommendations tailored to the site.
Why Choose Pacific Security Technology
Pacific Security Technology specialises in diagnosing complex false alarm issues that many providers overlook. With advanced scanning equipment, technical expertise, and access to RF-immune motion detectors, we deliver long-term solutions—not temporary fixes.
Reliable Security Starts with Proper Diagnosis
Falsely triggered alarms should not be something you get used to. The accurate identification and the appropriate gear can be the only solution if the Wi-Fi interference is the reason.
In the case of an unwarranted alarm activation, the staff at Pacific Security Technology is capable of figuring out the problem and bringing a reliable solution—thus your security system will always be the one you depend on.