How to Fix a Malfunctioning Z-Wave Device
When a Z-Wave device is showing a malfunction error, this indicates that your panel cannot properly communicate with the Z-Wave device, and therefore it cannot be remotely controlled. Take a look below to learn the most common causes and fixes for this error.
Resolving Errors on a New Device
- If this error occurs on a newly installed device, it is usually an indication that the Z-Wave device is too far from the panel to maintain a signal. We recommend Z-Wave devices be within 25' of the panel for optimal signal.
- If your Z-Wave device is further than 25', a Z-Wave repeater can help to extend the range of the signal from the panel. Z-Wave devices that plug into a power outlet will automatically extend the range, so installing more Z-Wave devices in your home will help extend the range of the Z-Wave network. This will allow for stronger communication and remote control.
Resolving Errors on a Pre-Existing Device
- Verify the device is powered on and can be operated manually. For any device that is plugged into an outlet, ensure it is fully plugged in and the outlet is providing power. For battery powered devices, try replacing the batteries.
- Check if the device is within 25' of the panel or another Z-Wave device that is plugged into an outlet. If the Z-Wave signal is being repeated across multiple Z-Wave devices, ensure all devices are within range of each other and have power. If one device is not powered up and in range, this can affect the function of other devices in range.
- Performing a network rediscovery can resolve this error. This process prompts your panel to send a signal to all Z-Wave devices, re-establishing the Z-Wave network connection. Click your corresponding panel below to see steps on performing a network rediscovery:
Tap the time and date at the top of the screen.
Tap the Settings button.
Tap the Advanced Settings button.
Type in 1111.
Tap the System Tests button.
Tap the Z-Wave Tests button.
Tap the Rediscover Network button.
Tap the checkbox in the top left corner to select all Z-Wave devices, then click the Rediscover button to run the network rediscovery.
Tap the System Settings button.
Type in 1561.
Tap the Smart Home Settings button.
Tap the Rediscover Network button.
Tap the Start button to run the network rediscovery.
Tap the Services button.
Tap the Z-Wave button.
Tap the tool icon.
Type in 1561.
Tap the Advanced Toolbox button.
Tap the Rediscover Network button to run the network rediscovery.
Tap the settings icon.
Tap the down arrow until you see Programming.
Tap the Programming button.
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Tap the Interactive Services button.
Tap the Z-Wave button.
Tap the Advanced button.
Tap the Rediscovery button.
Tap the Yes button to run the network rediscovery.
- If a network rediscovery does not work, power off the Z-Wave device, wait a few minutes, then power the device back on and test. For devices that are plugged into an outlet, power them down by unplugging them from the outlet. For battery powered devices, remove the batteries.
- Move the Z-Wave device closer to the panel or closer to an outlet powered Z-Wave device to try and bring the malfunctioning device into range of the Z-Wave network.
- For devices that are out of range and cannot be moved, add an outlet powered Z-Wave device between the malfunctioning device and the panel to extend the range of the Z-Wave network. Once the new device is added, perform a network rediscovery using the steps found above in step 3.
Qolsys IQ2 and IQ4
GoControl GC3 and Edge
GoControl GC2
Interlogix Simon XTi
Once the malfunction is cleared and you are able to remotely control your Z-Wave device, you will need to clear the alert from your panel. See below for instructions on clearing an alert for your panel: