That heart-stopping moment when your alarm goes off at midnight — is it a burglar or just the family dog? With the right ADT motion sensor, you’ll know instantly, and so will the monitoring center.
I’m Mike, and as the lead consultant at PHT Security Systems (your local ADT Authorized Dealer on Cullen Blvd), I’ve installed these sensors in thousands of Houston homes and businesses over the last 15 years. From flood-prone Meyerland ranches to high-ceiling warehouses along the Ship Channel, they’re one of the smartest layers of protection you can add.
Let’s break down everything about ADT security motion sensors in 2026 — how they work, the best types for Houston, and why they’re a game-changer for peace of mind.
How ADT Motion Sensors Detect Intruders (And Ignore Your Pets)
ADT motion sensors primarily use passive infrared (PIR) technology. They detect sudden changes in heat within their field of view — like a person walking across a room — while ignoring gradual changes like sunlight or AC vents.
In 2025 models, many include dual-tech (PIR + microwave) for even fewer false alarms in humid environments. Coverage is typically 35–50 feet with a 90-degree view, and pet-immune versions ignore animals up to 80–100 lbs.
After Hurricane Beryl, I added motion sensors to dozens of homes in Kingwood and Atascocita. Even with power flickering, the cellular backup kept them talking to the central station monitored alarm.
These sensors integrate perfectly with monitored fire systems if you’re curious about what a monitored fire alarm actually does.
Best Types of ADT Motion Sensors for Houston Homes & Businesses
Houston properties vary wildly — from open-concept Katy homes to secure Pasadena warehouses. Here are the most popular 2025 options we install:
- Standard Indoor PIR: Perfect for hallways and living rooms, pet-friendly up to 80 lbs
- Dual-Tech Motion: Ideal for garages or high-ceiling spaces where humidity causes issues
- Outdoor Motion Detectors: Weatherproof with adjustable range, pairs with floodlights
- Recessed/Flush-Mount: Hidden in ceilings for a clean look in modern homes
For commercial spaces that need full code compliance, these tie into commercial fire alarm monitoring seamlessly.
And general fire alarm monitoring options are available here.
Wireless fire versions are increasingly popular too.
Pet-Friendly Motion Sensors – A Must in Dog-Loving Houston
More than half of Houston households have pets, and nothing kills trust in your system faster than constant false alarms from Fido jumping on the couch.
ADT’s 2025 pet-immune sensors use advanced algorithms to ignore animals under 80–100 lbs while catching human-sized movement. I installed them last month for a family in Friendswood with two Great Danes — not a single false trigger since.
Battery Life & Maintenance Tips for ADT Motion Sensors
Most run on long-life CR123A lithium batteries that last 5–7 years in normal use. Low battery alerts come through the app well in advance.
We see faster drain in Houston’s extreme heat, so annual checks are smart. Our full ADT security system battery replacement guide covers everything if you ever need it.
Houston’s hard water can also corrode terminals over time in garage-mounted sensors, which is one of the common hard water problems for League City homes.
Pairing Motion Sensors with Cameras & Smart Home Features
Nothing beats video verification. When a motion sensor triggers, the ADT+ app sends a clip from your linked camera instantly.
For the clearest footage possible, many Houston customers ask if 4K security cameras are really better, and we break it down here.
To avoid the most common camera setup mistakes that waste motion alerts, follow these tips.
Wireless Motion Sensors & Storm Reliability
No wires means no damage from flooding or storms — huge in Houston. Our wireless motion sensors use encrypted cellular and lastfor years on battery.
They’re part of the same reliable wireless fire alarm monitoring many businesses use.
And when fire monitoring is legally required for sprinklers or occupancy.
Central Station Response When Motion Triggers
Every ADT motion sensor connects to Five-Diamond certified central stations for verified response.
Many clients realize they might need alarm monitoring after adding motion sensors.
Upgrading your whole system? Easy motion sensor swap included.
ADT availability if you travel internationally is limited to the U.S. and Canada.
Shopping competitors? Here’s our Vivint vs ADT security comparison.
Or if circumstances change, here’s how to cancel ADT security.
Ready to Add ADT Motion Sensors to Your Houston Property?
As your local dealer, we do free on-site surveys, same-day installs in most cases, and bundle with generators/solar so nothing goes dark in the next outage.
Get your free motion sensor assessment and quote today through our certified alarms and surveillance services.
FAQ – ADT Motion Sensors Houston 2025
How do ADT motion sensors detect movement?
Using passive infrared (PIR) to spot heat changes from people or animals in a 35×50 ft area.
Are ADT motion sensors pet-immune?
Yes — most 2025 models ignore pets up to 80–100 lbs.
What’s the range of an ADT motion sensor?
Standard models cover 35–50 feet with a 90-degree field of view.
Can ADT motion sensors work outside in Houston weather?
Absolutely — outdoor models are fully weatherproof for rain, heat, and humidity.
How long do ADT motion sensor batteries last?
5–7 years typically, with low-battery alerts well in advance.
Will motion sensors trigger my cameras?
Yes — instant video clips sent to your phone for verification.
Don’t leave blind spots in your protection.
Call our Houston team at (281) 20272-5276 or click above for your free consultation.
