Are Glass Break Sensors Worth It?

Yes, glass break sensors are worth it. They are the best option for any user who wants to know if an intruder has shattered some glass. Most glass break sensors are used to monitor windows that intruders might break to gain entry. They can also be used to monitor glass casings and artwork.

If an intruder smashes a window, they might be able to access the inside of a building without activating a door and window contact. This is a serious concern for many homeowners. Fortunately, you can use glass break detectors to alert your system if an intruder tries to access your home this way. These devices generally work very well in detecting glass break events.

Most glass break sensors will work with plate, tempered, laminated, wired, coated and sealed insulating glass. Keep this in mind when system planning. Check the instructions for your glass break sensor carefully to make sure that the type and thickness of the glass you are monitoring is covered. Any user with glass break sensors will usually also want to invest in a glass break simulator for testing purposes. We recommend selecting a glass break simulator from the same manufacturer as your glass break detectors. Each Glass break detector will list the glass break simulator(s) it is compatible with.

A glass break sensor works by actively listening for the sound of breaking glass. This is a high-pitched noise that occurs at a certain sound frequency. To prevent false alarms, most glass break detectors will listen for this high-pitched "shattering" sound, as well as the low-pitched "thud" of an object striking the glass. The sensor must detect both of these sounds within a very short period of time to activate and alert the panel.

Most glass break sensors will actively distinguish between glass breaking sounds and other similar noises. This helps prevent false alarms. The typical glass break sensor is programmed to a panel with a Response Type of Perimeter. This means that an immediate alarm will occur if the glass break sensor activates while the system is Armed Away or Armed Stay.

If you don't go with glass break sensors, then there are a few viable alternatives available. A shock sensor will detect the shockwaves associated with the glass being struck and alert the system to an attempt to break a window. These devices can also be used on doors in case an intruder smashes in a door. However, glass break sensors tend to work more reliably than shock sensors, and they are less prone to false alarms. Another option is to install a motion sensor near any windows. This way, your system will be alerted if someone enters through the window.