How to Fix SimpliSafe Zone Settings Not Working
SimpliSafe's motion sensors are a key part of your home security, but if their zone settings aren't configured correctly, you can suffer from frustrating false alarms. "Zone settings" in this context primarily refers to the sensitivity levels of your motion sensors. This guide will help you troubleshoot and fine-tune them for reliable performance.
1. Understanding Motion Sensor Sensitivity
SimpliSafe motion sensors work by detecting sources of heat in motion. Their sensitivity settings determine how significant a change in heat signature is required to trigger an alarm. If the settings are not working for you, it's usually an issue of placement rather than a hardware fault.
- High Sensitivity: The default setting. Ideal for rooms where you expect no movement at all when the system is armed.
- Medium/Low Sensitivity: Better for areas where small pets roam or where environmental factors might cause false triggers.
2. Common Causes of False Alarms
If your sensor is triggering unexpectedly, even on a low setting, investigate these common culprits:
- Direct Sunlight: A sensor pointed at a window can be triggered by moving clouds casting shadows or the sun heating up the floor. Solution: Reposition the sensor so it does not face a window.
- Heat Sources: Do not install sensors near radiators, heating vents, fireplaces, or kitchen appliances. A sudden blast of hot air from your heating system can easily cause a false alarm.
- Pets: While SimpliSafe sensors are designed to be pet-friendly, a large pet or a smaller pet that can climb close to the sensor (e.g., a cat on a bookshelf) can still trigger it.
- Moving Objects: Curtains or decorations moving due to an air vent can sometimes be enough to set off a highly sensitive sensor.
3. How to Correctly Adjust and Test Your Zone Settings
To fix issues, you need to adjust the settings and then test them properly.
Adjusting the Sensitivity
You can change the sensitivity using a small switch inside the motion sensor itself or through the SimpliSafe app/keypad, depending on your model.
- Disarm your system.
- Navigate to 'Devices' or 'Settings' on your keypad or app.
- Select the motion sensor you wish to adjust.
- Choose a lower sensitivity setting.
The Ideal Placement for Pet Owners
If you have pets, placement is critical.
- Install the sensor about 1.5 metres (5 feet) from the floor.
- Crucially, install it upside down. This directs the sensor's field of view straight out and slightly upwards, creating a "pet alley" underneath where your furry friends can move around without triggering the alarm.
Testing Your New Settings
After making an adjustment, don't just wait for another false alarm. Put your system into Test Mode.
- From the keypad menu, select Test Mode.
- The monitoring centre will be notified, so you won't get a police dispatch.
- Walk through the protected area to see if the sensor detects you. If you have pets, have them move through the area as they normally would.
- This allows you to confirm the sensor is working as intended without the risk of a real alarm.
By systematically addressing placement and adjusting sensitivity, you can resolve most issues with your SimpliSafe zone settings and ensure your system is both secure and reliable.