Garden Sensor and Detector Guide UK¶

Overview of garden sensors and detectors for UK homes including PIR, radar, vibration, beam, and smart detection technologies.

Types of Garden Detection Sensors¶

Garden sensors fall into four main categories: PIR (passive infrared) detecting body heat, microwave radar detecting movement, dual-technology combining both, and perimeter beam sensors using infrared tripwires. Prices range from £10 (basic PIR from Screwfix) to £300 (dual-tech detectors from Optex). Detection ranges span 5 - 50 metres. UK brands include Optex, Texecom, and Pyronix. ONS data shows 47% of UK burglaries involve forced entry at the rear.

Installing and Configuring Garden Detectors¶

Mount PIR sensors 2 - 2.5 metres high, angled downward to cover the garden approach. Avoid aiming at trees or road traffic to reduce false triggers. Dual-tech sensors require both heat and movement before activating, reducing false alarms by 90%. Buried perimeter cable sensors detect footsteps on gravel or grass. Pet-immune sensors (up to 25kg) prevent false alarms from cats and foxes - essential for UK gardens. Wireless detectors connect via 868MHz or Z-Wave to a central alarm panel.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Sensor Type	Technology	Range	Price	False Alarm Rate
PIR	Heat	12m	£10 - £60	Moderate
Microwave Radar	Movement	20m	£40 - £120	Low
Dual-Tech	PIR + Radar	15m	£50 - £300	Very Low
Beam/Tripwire	Infrared	30m	£30 - £150	Low

FAQ¶

What is the best sensor type for a UK garden?: PIR sensors are cost-effective for most gardens. Dual-tech sensors are recommended for high-security needs and areas with high false-alarm risk.
Do garden sensors work in heavy rain?: Most IP65-rated sensors function in rain but detection range may reduce by 10 - 20%. Beam sensors are more affected than PIR.
What does pet-immune mean on a garden sensor?: It ignores animals up to a specified weight (typically 25kg). Adjustable pet immunity allows fine-tuning for garden size and wildlife. For more information see our Driveway Alarm Installation Guide UK.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the Ofcom.