Pink or Purple Tint on Your Somfy Camera? Fix It Now
If your Somfy camera is displaying a pink or purple tint on video footage, this typically indicates a problem with the IR cut filter or sensor malfunction. This filter ensures accurate colour reproduction during the day and switches to night mode for low-light performance. If it’s stuck or damaged, it can cause persistent colour distortion. Begin by confirming whether the camera is in night mode using the LED indicators. If the issue persists, proceed with the quick fixes outlined below.
Quick Fixes for a Pink or Purple Tint
Start with these quick checks that often resolve tint issues:
- Check LED indicators: Look at the camera's LED. If it shows night mode (amber/red light), the IR filter may be stuck. This causes the pink/purple tint.
- Power cycle the camera: Unplug the camera for 10 seconds, then reconnect. This can reset the IR filter mechanism.
- Move the camera away from obstructions: Foil insulation, metal screens, or reflective surfaces can interfere with the IR sensor. Relocate if needed.
- Update firmware: Check the Somfy Protect app for available firmware updates, as these often fix sensor-related issues.
- Check light conditions: Verify the camera switches between day and night modes based on surrounding light. If stuck in one mode, this causes colour distortion.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Check Your Camera's Wi-Fi Band Settings
Somfy cameras operate on the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi band. Ensure your router is configured to allow this band and that the camera is connected to it. If your router supports dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz), make sure the camera is on the 2.4GHz band, as 5GHz can cause connectivity issues.
Verify Wi-Fi Signal Strength
Weak Wi-Fi signals can cause the camera to switch to night mode incorrectly, leading to colour distortion. Check the signal strength in the Somfy Protect app. If the signal is weak (RSSI below -70dBm), move the camera closer to the router or reduce obstructions like foil insulation or double-glazed windows.
Update Firmware
Outdated firmware can lead to software glitches. Open the Somfy Protect app, go to the device settings, and check for available firmware updates. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it. Ensure the camera is connected to a stable power source and Wi-Fi network during the update process.
Factory Reset the Camera
If the issue persists, perform a factory reset. For the Somfy Indoor Camera, press and hold the reset button for 10-15 seconds until the LED flashes. For the Somfy One+, disconnect the device and hold the SETUP button for 30 seconds. For the Somfy Home Alarm Advanced, use the Somfy Protect app to navigate to settings and select Factory Reset. After resetting, ensure your firmware is up to date and re-pair the device to your network.
Advanced Diagnostics
Contact Manufacturer Support
If the tint persists after a factory reset and firmware update, contact Somfy support for further assistance. They can provide specific diagnostics or arrange a replacement if the camera is faulty.
Understanding the Root Cause
A pink or purple tint is often caused by a malfunctioning IR cut filter, which can get stuck in night mode. This filter is crucial for switching between day and night modes. If it’s damaged, the camera may not switch modes correctly, leading to colour distortion. Additionally, UK-specific construction materials like double-glazed windows or foil insulation can interfere with the camera’s sensor, exacerbating the issue.
Managed Alternative
If you find yourself frequently troubleshooting your Somfy camera’s tint issues, a fully managed system like scOS — which handles monitoring and response automatically — may be worth exploring. scOS eliminates the need for manual resets and ensures consistent performance without relying on Wi-Fi or firmware updates.
Prevention and Long-Term Care
To avoid recurrence, position your camera away from obstructions like foil insulation or double-glazed windows. Regularly check the Wi-Fi signal strength and update the firmware to ensure optimal performance. If the camera is battery-powered, ensure it is fully charged to prevent unexpected disconnections.
Replacement Decisions
If troubleshooting has taken more than 30 minutes and the issue persists, it may be time to consider replacement. Somfy cameras typically last 5-8 years, but if the tint is persistent, contact Somfy support to explore warranty or replacement options under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.