I have a couple of recessed window sensors that keep tripping. It seems like it’s somehow associated with our hotter weather and prolonged sun exposure in the afternoons.
To troubleshoot, I relocated / reseated the magnet, but hasn’t solved the issue.
These are older sensors (10 yrs). Is there a chance I need stronger magnets? I’m trying to avoid replacing the sensors because they seem hard to remove from the casement.
That’s possible as an issue, as the frame swells/contracts from temperature change, especially with older windows, if the magnet and sensor are not aligned well enough it can cause false alarms.
Stronger magnets may or may not help depending on the install. It really is just a matter of how misaligned the sensor and magnet are.
Can you post a photo of the magnet and sensor? (just want to see the diameter) Can you describe how far off the centers of the two are?
Thanks. Photo below. The magnet thickness is about the same as the quarter.
Since the magnets are only held on by some adhesive, I can reseat/reorient them. However, I’ve tried that with the one in the photo, but it hasn’t helped.
Aha, that may actually be a magnet issue. Those strip adhesive magnets are generally weaker and have a different magnetic field than the type of sensor magnet that typically comes with those sensors. The magnet is typically also recessed into the window.
Here’s an example of a similar 3/8th inch wired recessed sensor and its corresponding recessed magnet:
http://www.seco-larm.com/Security/magnetic-contacts/SM-4102-TQ-W
Is there no recessed magnet in the window at all?
It may also be good to check the wiring of the sensor itself at both ends to check for loose wires.
Nope, no recessed magnet. All of the windows follow the same set up.
I’m pretty certain it’s not the wiring. I just rewired the central panel and the problem is intermittent with two separate sensors, and seems to correspond to sun/heat and wind.
Better to use a larger magnet or replace the sensors? If I go with replacement, I prefer recessed sensors for aesthetics, but worry about drilling too far into the window frame and hitting the glass.
Considering they are usually inexpensive, the best bet would probably be ordering a wired recessed replacement like the one I linked, and try using the magnet they come with to see if it resolves the issue. If not you can replace the sensor itself as well with the new one.
