Ring contact sensors are components of the Ring Alarm system, designed to alert the owner when doors or windows are opened or tampered with. Over time, you may experience technical difficulties or simply need to reconnect the sensor to a new device. In such cases, resetting the Ring contact sensor is a necessary step to ensure its proper functionality.
Resetting a Ring contact sensor differs depending on whether you have a first or second-generation model.
- For the second-generation sensors, the process involves removing the cover, pressing and holding the reset button with the pinhole tool provided, or a paperclip.
- The first-generation contact sensor follows a similar procedure, but may require holding the button for at least 10 seconds until the LED light turns red, indicating a successful reset.
Table of Contents
Resetting the Ring Contact Sensor
In this section, we will discuss the process of resetting a Ring Contact Sensor, including factory reset, removal, and re-adding the device to your Ring system.
Factory Reset
To factory reset your Ring Contact Sensor (2nd Gen), follow these steps:
- Remove the cover of your Ring Contact Sensor.
- Press and hold the Reset button inside the contact sensor using the pinhole tool provided in the package or a paperclip.
- Hold the button for at least 10 seconds until the LED light turns red, indicating that the device has reset.
Note: For first generation Ring contact sensors, the process is almost identical. Just hold the button until the LED light turns red.
How to Remove a Ring Contact Sensor
To remove a Ring Contact Sensor from your Ring system, complete the following steps:
- Open the Ring app, and then tap the main menu.
- Tap “Devices,” followed by “Alarm” or “Alarm Pro Base Station.”
- Select the Contact Sensor you want to remove.
- From the Contact Sensor’s dashboard tap “Device Settings” (gear icon), then tap “Advanced Options.”
- Tap “Remove Failed Device” and wait for the app to confirm that your Contact Sensor has been successfully removed.
Re-Add
After resetting and removing the contact sensor, you can re-add it to your Ring system. Follow these steps to do so:
- Ensure the contact sensor is in factory reset state (refer to the “Factory Reset” section).
- Open the Ring app, and then tap the main menu.
- Tap “Devices,” followed by “Alarm” or “Alarm Pro Base Station.”
- Tap the “+” icon to add a new device, and then select “Contact Sensor.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process.
With these steps, you should be able to successfully reset, remove, and re-add your Ring Contact Sensor to your Ring system.
Troubleshooting Sensor Connectivity Issues
Offline
If your Ring Contact Sensor appears offline, try to reconnect it to the Ring app:
- Disarm your Ring Alarm System using the keypad and your User Code.
- Open the Ring app and click on the Menu icon.
- Choose Set Up a Device, then click on Security Devices.
If the sensor remains offline, you may need to perform a factory reset:
- Remove the cover of your Ring Contact Sensor.
- Using the pinhole tool or a paperclip, press and hold the Reset button.
Sensor Connection Issues
Connection issues may arise from interference or obstacles between the Contact Sensor and the Base Station. Ensure there are no thick walls, metal objects, or other devices that may cause interference in the communication path. You may need to rearrange the placement of your Contact Sensor and Base Station to maintain a strong connection.
Range Extender
A Range Extender can be utilized to improve the signal strength between the Contact Sensor and the Base Station. It amplifies the Z-Wave signal to help maintain a strong connection between the two devices while expanding the coverage area. To set up a Range Extender, follow these steps:
- Plug the Range Extender into a wall outlet.
- Add the Range Extender to your Ring Alarm system using the Ring app.
- Allow the Range Extender to connect and configure itself with the Contact Sensor and Base Station.
Z-Wave Technology
Z-Wave technology is a wireless communication protocol used by Ring Contact Sensors and other home automation devices to communicate with each other. Ensure that other Z-Wave devices nearby do not cause interference with the Contact Sensor’s connectivity. You may need to reduce the number of Z-Wave devices within close proximity, or move the Contact Sensor closer to the Base Station to establish a stable connection.
Battery and LED Indicator
Battery
The Ring Contact Sensor comes with a battery pre-installed. These batteries typically last for a long time, up to 2 years or more, depending on usage. However, if you notice a decrease in performance, it may be time to replace the battery. In some cases, the battery might need replacement due to low power or other issues.
Batteries
When it’s time to replace the battery for your Ring Contact Sensor, make sure to use the correct type. The 2nd Generation Ring Contact Sensor uses a CR2032 battery, which is easily available in most stores or online. Remember to dispose of the used batteries properly according to local regulations.
LED Light
The Ring Contact Sensor features an LED light that helps you understand its status. The LED light indicates various states of the sensor, like opening or closing of doors and windows, disconnections, and successful connections. Additionally, the Contact Sensor will flash during the pairing process, indicating that it’s successfully connected to your Ring Alarm System.
Red Light
A red light on your Ring Contact Sensor may indicate a low battery or a connection issue. If the battery light shows a red color, it means the battery is running very low and requires replacement. Furthermore, a red light might also appear if there’s a disconnection or issue with the sensor’s communication with the Base Station. In such cases, it’s essential to check the Contact Sensor’s installation and ensure it’s within the range of the Base Station.
About Ring Contact Sensors
Sensor
A sensor is a device that detects events, changes in the environment, or external stimuli and provides notifications or simple data output. Sensors perform a key role in various security measures, such as intrusion detection and alarm systems.
Contact Sensor
Contact sensors, also known as door sensors, window sensors, or magnetic sensors, detect the opening and closing of doors, windows, or other openings. They consist of two parts, a magnet and a sensor, which communicate wirelessly. When the two parts are separated, the alarm is triggered.
Ring Contact Sensor
Ring Contact Sensor is a component of Ring Alarm, a popular smart home security system. It helps monitor the opening and closing of doors, windows, or other entryways in a home or office. These sensors serve as an integral part of maintaining security and ensuring the safety of the inhabitants or property.
1st Gen
The 1st Generation Ring Contact Sensor had some reported connection issues when placed far away from the Base Station. To resolve these issues, users were advised to move the sensor closer to the Base Station or add a Range Extender to improve the connection.
2nd Gen
The 2nd Generation Ring Contact Sensor offers improved performance and connectivity. To reset a 2nd Generation Contact Sensor, slide the sensor off its base, ensure batteries are installed, and press and hold the pinhole reset button. Release the button when the LED light turns red. Once reset, re-add the Contact Sensor to your Ring Alarm using the Ring app.
Ring Alarm System Setup
Alarm System
The Ring Alarm system is a smart home security solution that helps protect and monitor your home. It comprises of various components such as contact sensors, motion detectors, keypads, and the base station. The alarm system is designed to be easily installed and managed by the homeowner, offering customizable security settings to suit individual preferences.
Setup Process
The setup process for a Ring Alarm system begins with your Ring app. Start by creating a Ring account and signing in. Then, follow the app’s on-screen instructions to add your Ring Alarm Base Station and other devices like contact sensors, motion detectors, and keypads. Make sure your smartphone is connected to Wi-Fi during setup to facilitate communication between devices.
- Open the Ring app and sign in to your account
- Tap “Set Up a Device” or “+” button
- Select “Security Devices”
- Choose “Base Station”
- Follow the on-screen instructions for connecting and configuring your base station
Base Station
The Ring Alarm Base Station is the central hub for your alarm system, connecting all security devices and connecting to the internet for remote access and control. It features a built-in siren, a 24-hour backup battery, and uses cellular connection for backup communication. The Base Station should be placed in a central location within your home, allowing it to communicate efficiently with all security devices.
Ring Alarm Base Station
Setting up and resetting the Ring Alarm Contact Sensor involves a few simple steps. First, locate the sensor and its magnet, which will be installed on your doors or windows. The sensor should be placed on the frame, while the magnet should go on the moving part (the door or window itself), ensuring that they align and create a closed circuit when the door or window is closed.
To reset a Ring Contact Sensor:
- Remove the cover of the sensor
- Press and hold the Reset button using a pinhole tool or a paperclip
- Follow instructions in the Ring app to remove the device, if necessary
After resetting your contact sensor, you can easily reinstall it and add it back to your Ring Alarm system through the Ring app.
Remember to follow proper installation and reset procedures, and avoid making any exaggerated or false claims regarding the performance of your Ring Alarm system. By following the provided guidelines, you’ll be able to set up, use, and reset your Ring Alarm Contact Sensor and other security devices with confidence.
Ring Alarm Sensors: Advanced Options and Additional Support
Troubleshoot
When experiencing issues with your Ring Contact Sensor, it is essential to troubleshoot first. Start by checking the connection between your sensor and your Ring Base Station. Ensure proper battery installation and verify that the sensor is positioned correctly on your door or window.
If the problem persists, resetting the contact sensor might be necessary. To factory reset your Ring Contact Sensor (2nd Gen), follow these steps:
- Remove the cover of your Ring Contact Sensor.
- Press and hold the Reset button in the contact sensor with the pinhole tool provided or a paperclip.
Ring App
The Ring App is an essential tool for managing your Ring Contact Sensor. If you need to remove a failed device, go to the Ring app > Devices > Alarm or Alarm Pro Base Station > select the Contact Sensor > Device Settings (gear icon) > Advanced Options > Remove Failed Device.
Tamper Button
Occasionally, Ring Contact Sensors may falsely report as “tampered.” To resolve this, remove the device by following these steps:
- Click Device Settings, then Advanced Options.
- Select the option to Remove Device.
- Slide your Contact Sensor from its base to access the batteries.
- Use a paper clip to press and release the pinhole button at the top, above the batteries.
After successfully removing the device, proceed to re-install your sensor.
Ring Customer Support
If you continue to have issues with your Ring Contact Sensor after attempting to troubleshoot and reset the device, it is recommended to contact Ring Customer Support. Their dedicated team of experts can assist you in diagnosing and resolving any lingering problems with your sensor.