Troubleshooting Your Wireless Motion Sensor

Brinks Home™ has wireless motion sensor that uses heat and movement to detect intruders when your alarm system is armed. Even the slightest movement can indicate danger, and you’ll want to be prepared in the event you’re unable to see or hear it.

Our motion detectors are both effective and easy to use, and a motion detector comes with every Brinks Home package at no extra cost.

Since each motion sensor recognizes heat and movement within a range of 30 feet in a 90-degree arc, you can confidently place the equipment in most nooks and crannies throughout your home. However, it is essential to know how to troubleshoot your home security technology in case you run into any issues.

Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to change the battery inside your motion detector sensor and how to troubleshoot any other conditions you might experience with your sensor.

Replacing Batteries

If you think your motion detector needs a battery change, you can check by looking at your home security panel. When the battery is low, the sensor may still communicate with the control panel.

When batteries are dying, trouble beeps will start, and the SYSTEM STATUS button will light. Press the SYSTEM STATUS button twice to hear which sensor(s) have trouble.

To replace a battery, simply follow these steps:

1. Brinks Home does not include batteries in its lifetime warranty. However, you can either purchase a two-pack of the battery you’ll need from us for $12 or through a third-party vendor to expedite replacement. You’ll need to purchase one CR123A battery.

2. If you already have the battery you need, simply open the device using a small screwdriver to press on the tab located on the bottom of the sensor, and lift the cover open.

3. Once the device is apart, remove the drained battery and replace it with the new battery. Re-assemble the device, and test to ensure it is working correctly.

Sensor Failure

Sometimes your sensor might not communicate with your control panel. This is called a sensor failure. Determine if the motion detector is actually programmed into the control panel. Program the sensor into the panel if it is not already in sync by calling 1-800-951-5111, and select Option 3. You can also speak with us over chat.

Once you have done this already, move to step 1:

1. Press the STATUS button on the panel to determine which sensors have caused the error.

2. Then, perform an environmental check to see if anything interferes with the communication between the two devices. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Is the internet router too close to the control panel?

• Is the internet router too close to the sensors?

• Are there any AC/power lines behind the system panel?

• Is there a cordless phone too close to the system panel?

If any of the above interference issues exist, relocate the necessary equipment to avoid communication issues.

3. Next, confirm the sensor is within 100 feet of the control panel. If the distance is too far, it will cause interference between the sensor and the system panel, resulting in sensor failure. You may need to move the control panel to a centrally located area of the home or move the sensor closer to the control panel.

4. If you still are having issues with the sensor, please do not hesitate to call. Keeping a malfunctioning sensor in programming will cause you more problems down the line and make you more susceptible to a false alarm.

Our security professionals are available seven days a week to assist and advise you on any topic. You can call or chat with us online. We’re here to help.

Allison Clark is a senior writer for Brinks Home. She enjoys educating others on the benefits of smart home security and using technology to simplify everyday life.