You may have noticed your glass break sensor has been going off more than usual lately. There are a few reasons this might happen, but the most common one is that it needs to be reset. Thankfully, this is a quick and easy process anyone can do.
There are two ways to reset a glass break sensor. First, press and hold the reset button for three seconds. If that doesn’t work, remove the battery and put it back in, or replace it with a fresh battery. If the sensor is still not working correctly, try adjusting the sensitivity.
Let’s look at signs that your glass break sensor needs to be reset and find out how to do it. You’ll also learn when it’s time to replace the sensor entirely.
How to Reset Your Glass Break Sensor
The process for resetting a glass break sensor will differ depending on the make and model of your device. However, you can follow some general steps to reset most glass break sensors.
Press & Hold the Reset Button
The first step is to locate the tamper switch or reset button on your glass break sensor. You can usually find it on the device under the battery compartment. Once you have located the button, press and hold it for three seconds. Doing this will reset the sensor and clear any existing alarms.
Some models may require you to press and hold the reset button several times to complete the reset process. Again, check your device’s manual for specific instructions.
Replace the Batteries
Failing batteries can often cause glass break sensors to malfunction. If your sensor is not responding correctly, check the batteries and replace them if necessary. Doing this will usually resolve any issues you are having with your device.
Sometimes removing and replacing the same battery will also reset the device. Try this if you are having trouble finding the reset button or if the first method does not work.
Check the Sensitivity Level
If your glass break sensor goes off too often, it may be because its sensitivity level is too high.
You can usually adjust the sensitivity level by turning a dial on the device or pressing a few buttons, depending on the make and model. But first, try turning the sensitivity level down to see if that helps reduce the number of false alarms.
If you have followed these steps and your glass break sensor is still not working as it should, you may need to replace the device. Consult your home security system’s manual or contact customer service for further help.
Knowing When Glass Break Sensor Needs to Be Reset
Three primary signs indicate it may be time to reset your glass break sensor:
False Alarms
If your glass break sensor goes off more frequently than usual with no sign of forced entry or broken glass, it may be time for a reset.
There are a few reasons, such as jarring outside noises or barometric pressure changes. Resetting the sensor can sometimes fix the issue.
Malfunctions
You know your glass break system is malfunctioning if any of the following occurs:
- The system sounds an alarm when there is no glass breakage.
- The system does not sound an alarm when there is glass breakage.
- The system will not reset after an alarm has sounded.
If your system is experiencing any of these issues, you will need to reset the sensor.
Failed Routine Testing
From time to time, it’s a good idea to test all the devices in your home security system, including your glass break sensor.
Doing this involves activating the device by using a trigger sound and checking that the alarm sounds as intended. If your glass break sensor fails a routine test by not alerting when using a trigger or by sounding an alarm when there is no trigger, you will need to reset the sensor.
Physical Damage
You may be unable to solve the problem by resetting your glass break sensor if it has physical damage. Then it’s best to replace the device entirely.
Glass break sensors are designed to be durable but can still be damaged by normal wear and tear or accidents. So contact your home security provider for assistance if you think your glass break sensor has suffered damage.