Pink or Purple Tint on Your Somfy Camera Video? Here’s How to Fix It
If your Somfy camera is displaying a pink or purple tint on video, this typically relates to the IR cut filter or sensor calibration. This guide covers brand-specific solutions, including model-specific reset procedures and diagnostic tools like the Device Health feature in the Somfy Protect app. Follow these steps to restore clear footage.
Quick Fixes for Pink/Purple Tint
Before diving into complex diagnostics, try these 30-second checks:
- Restart your camera: For Somfy Indoor Camera models, press and hold the reset button for 10-15 seconds until the LED flashes. For Somfy One+, disconnect the device and press the SETUP button for 30 seconds.
- Check app login: Ensure you’re logged into the Somfy Protect app with the correct account — incorrect login may cause display anomalies.
- Verify power supply: For wired models, check the transformer voltage at the junction box — it must supply 16-24V AC. For battery-powered models, ensure the battery is fully charged (check via the app).
Working Through Your Somfy Issue
Check Wi-Fi Band Settings
Somfy cameras use 2.4GHz Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n). Ensure your router is broadcasting on this band:
- Open the Somfy Protect app → Go to Device Health → Network Diagnostics → Check the Wi-Fi Band setting.
- If connected to 5GHz, switch to 2.4GHz. Avoid using 5GHz bands in UK homes with cavity walls or foil insulation, as they degrade signal strength.
Update Firmware
Outdated firmware can cause sensor calibration issues:
- In the Somfy Protect app, navigate to Device Health → Software Update.
- If an update is available, follow the prompts. Ensure the camera remains powered during the update.
- For Somfy Home Alarm Advanced models, check the firmware via the Alarm System Check tool in the app.
Manually Reset the IR Cut Filter
A stuck IR cut filter is a common cause of pink/purple tints. Follow these steps:
- For Somfy Indoor Camera: In the app, go to Device Settings → Advanced → IR Filter Reset. Follow the on-screen instructions to manually recalibrate the filter.
- For Somfy One+: Use the Bluetooth feature to trigger a manual filter reset. Hold the SETUP button for 10 seconds while the app is open.
Check for Physical Damage
A cracked lens or damaged sensor can cause colour distortion:
- Inspect the camera lens for cracks or smudges. Clean the lens with a microfibre cloth.
- For Somfy Outdoor Camera models, check for water ingress or corrosion at the junction box.
Use Network Diagnostics
Signal interference or weak connectivity can affect sensor performance:
- In the Somfy Protect app, go to Device Health → Network Diagnostics.
- Check the RSSI (Signal Strength) — it should be above -70dBm. If below, move the router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- For models with 2G/4G cellular backup, ensure the eSIM is active and not blocked by your mobile provider.
Advanced Somfy Pink Purple Tint Troubleshooting Techniques
Factory Reset Procedures
If basic steps fail, perform a factory reset:
- Somfy Indoor Camera: Press and hold the reset button for 15 seconds until the LED flashes rapidly. Re-pair the camera via the app.
- Somfy Home Alarm Advanced: In the app, go to Link Advanced Hub → Settings → Factory Reset. Follow the prompts to reconfigure the system.
- Somfy One+: Disconnect the device, press the SETUP button for 30 seconds, then reconnect via the app.
Contact Manufacturer Support
If the tint persists, gather diagnostic logs:
- In the Somfy Protect app, go to Device Health → Diagnostic Logs. Export the logs and send them to Somfy support via their website: https://www.somfy.co.uk/support/contact-with-somfy.
- Include your model number, firmware version, and steps taken so far.
The Root Cause of Your Somfy Pink Purple Tint Issue
A pink or purple tint often stems from the IR cut filter being stuck in night vision mode or a malfunctioning sensor. UK homes with solid brick walls, cavity walls, or foil insulation may experience signal degradation, affecting the camera’s ability to switch between day/night modes. Additionally, double-glazed windows with low-E coatings can block Wi-Fi signals, leading to sensor instability. Ensure your camera is within 15-20 metres of the router and avoid placing it behind thick walls or near metal objects.
Protecting Your Somfy Investment
To avoid recurrence, follow these best practices:
- Update firmware regularly: Enable automatic updates in the Somfy Protect app.
- Avoid signal-blocking materials: Place cameras away from cavity walls, foil insulation, or metal objects.
- Monitor battery levels: For battery-powered models, charge the device fully before installation.
Full disclosure: we built scOS to address exactly this — the frustration of cameras that depend on Wi-Fi to function. scOS uses permanently powered cameras connected via ethernet.
When to Replace Your Somfy Camera
If troubleshooting takes more than 30 minutes and the tint remains, consider replacement. Wired cameras typically last 5-8 years, while battery-powered models degrade after 3-5 years. Check your model’s warranty status via the Consumer Rights Act 2015 — UK consumers have up to 6 years to claim faulty goods. For professional installation, expect costs of £150-£300 per camera. If your camera is over 5 years old, replacement may be more cost-effective than repair.