Troubleshooting Common Glassbreak Detector Issues

Common Terms

Hardwired Detector

Wired directly to your security panel; no internal batteries.

Wireless Detector

Battery-powered and communicates wirelessly with your panel.

Brinks Home Online Account

Your web portal at brinkshome.com, where you can view device status and system alerts.

IQ Panel 2 / IQ Panel 4

Touch-screen control panels for managing your system.

GC2 / GC3

Keypad-style control panels for your system.

Move Your Glassbreak Detector

If you need to reposition your detector, follow the steps below based on your model:

• Hardwired units:
  1. Contact us to arrange a technician visit—we’ll safely relocate and remount your detector for you.
• Wireless units:
  • Choose a wall or ceiling location 9–12 ft above the floor, at least 5 ft from windows or doors.
  • Avoid speakers, vents, or dusty/steamy areas.
  • Use the included mounting bracket and screws.

  After mounting, log in to your Brinks Home Online Account, go to “System → Devices → Glassbreak Detectors” to confirm your detector is listed and shows as “Online.”

Stop False Alarms

If your detector sounds without any glass breaking, follow these steps to eliminate common causes:

• Power down and remove the detector from its bracket.
• Blow out any dust or debris with a can of compressed air.
• Inspect the mounting area for vibration sources (speakers, machinery) and relocate the detector or the source.
• Remount the detector and restore power.
• If false alarms continue, contact us to schedule a technician visit or discuss replacement options.

Restore Connection (Loss of Supervision)

A “Loss of Supervision” message means your panel isn’t receiving the detector’s regular check-in. Try these fixes:

1. If the detector is in an outbuilding more than 50 ft from the panel:
   1. You may need a wireless bridge or a separate system in that building.
   2. Contact us to discuss the best solution.
2. For detectors within range:
   • Hardwired units: Ensure wiring at the detector base is secure and free of damage.
   • Wireless units: Replace the battery (see “Change a Low Battery” below) and confirm line-of-sight to the panel.
3. If the alert persists, contact us for further assistance.

Change a Low Battery

Your panel will display a low-battery warning. Replace it as follows:

1. Disarm your system.
2. Remove the detector from its mounting bracket.
3. Open the battery compartment and install a fresh, manufacturer-approved battery.
4. Close the compartment, remount the detector, and re-arm your system.

If the warning remains, contact us for additional support.

Handle a Damaged Detector

If your detector is cracked, corroded, or otherwise damaged:

1. Disarm and remove it from the wall or ceiling.
2. Hardwired units: Contact us to schedule a technician visit for replacement and rewiring.
3. Wireless units: Contact us to order a replacement unit.

Clear a Tamper Error

A tamper alert means the panel thinks the detector has been removed. Clear it on your panel as follows:

• IQ Panel 2 / IQ Panel 4:
  1. Press the Messages (envelope) icon on the home screen.
  2. Select Alerts or Messages/Alerts/Alarms.
  3. Tap Acknowledge All, then confirm to clear the tamper alert.
• GC2 / GC3 panels:
  1. Disarm the system.
  2. Press Security (lock icon), then System (wrench icon).
  3. Enter your user code to clear the tamper message, then press Exit.
• Other panels: Follow your panel’s “clear tamper” instructions or contact us for help.