Hi everyone! I’m trying to create a homemade nighttime garden alarm because I haven’t found any that really work for my setup.
I’d like to have a siren/alarm connected to the mains (and under cover) with a timer so it won’t activate during the day. For detection, I’m looking for a wireless outdoor sensor that can trigger the alarm via WiFi. I can’t use a wired sensor, but the sensor could be mains-powered or run on battery/solar power.
The main goal is to scare off intruders before they get too close to the house. Any product suggestions or advice would be really appreciated. Thanks!
Consider using a 12V DC landscape lighting transformer as the power supply—it’s safer and plenty of sensors and sirens can run on low voltage. Many landscape transformers even have automatic day/night settings, so your alarm would only be active after sunset.
The main goal is to scare off intruders
Keep in mind, though, that lights and sirens alone may not be that effective since people often ignore them.
EduAdvocateElla said:
I use a motion-activated sprinkler! It’s great for keeping critters away and would definitely surprise a burglar.
That’s a clever idea! How does it work?
I found mine on Amazon by searching ‘motion-activated sprinklers.’ I got the Orbit one—it has a solar panel and motion detector. When it senses movement, the sprinkler turns on and sprays in a rotating pattern, soaking anything in its path.
I actually used it to protect fish in my pond. It kept birds from grabbing them!