Moving or Removing a Sensor

Need to relocate a sensor after installation? Whether you're remodeling, replacing windows or doors, or just want a better placement—we’ve got you covered. This guide walks you through the safe removal of your sensor and adhesive backing without damaging your walls or your equipment.

Reasons You Might Need to Move a Sensor:

• Remodeling or repainting your home.
• Replacing a door or window.
• Improving sensor placement or visibility.
• Changing the layout of a room.
• Moving to a new home.

🪛 Tools You’ll Need:

• Hair dryer or blow dryer
• Small flathead screwdriver (for door/window sensors)
• Small Phillips-head screwdriver (for motion sensors)
• Butter knife or similar scraping tool
• Adhesive remover (e.g., WD-40 or paint-safe alternatives)

How to Remove and Reinstall Your Sensor

Step 1: Power Down Your System

Before making any changes, power off your Cove system:

• Unplug your panel from the wall.
• Press and hold both the Home and Call buttons for 12 seconds.
• Enter your 4-digit master code when prompted.

Now your system is safe to work on.

Step 2: Remove the Sensor Cover

Carefully open and detach the sensor’s casing:

• Door/Window Sensor:
  Use a small flathead screwdriver in the slit (top or bottom). Twist gently to release the outer shell. Catch any loose parts—only the larger piece needs removal.
• Glass Break Sensor:
  Twist the sensor counterclockwise, then pull it off. The mounting plate should remain on the wall.
• Motion Sensor:
  Remove the small Phillips screw (if present), then press the tab at the bottom while pulling outward.
• Smoke/CO Detector:
  Twist counterclockwise and pull off to release from the base.

Be gentle and careful not to drop or damage the internal components.

Step 3: Loosen the Adhesive

Use a hair dryer to heat the adhesive:

• Aim heat directly between the wall and the tape for about 10 seconds at a time.
• Alternate between heating and resting to avoid damaging surfaces.
• Slowly twist or pull the sensor casing while the adhesive softens.

If needed, slide dental floss behind the sensor or use a butter knife to gently pry.

This may take a few minutes—patience will prevent wall damage.

Step 4: Clean Off Any Residue

Once removed:

• Use a butter knife to scrape off leftover foam gently.
• For any sticky residue, apply a safe adhesive remover like WD-40.
  Let it sit for 15 seconds, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Avoid scratching paint—take your time!

Step 5: Reassemble the Sensor

After removal, immediately reassemble the sensor casing to protect the internal components.

Step 6: Reinstall & Test Your System

After you've relocated your sensors and remodeling is complete:

1. Plug your Cove panel back in.
2. Wait ~3 minutes for the red “X” to disappear from the top-left of the screen.
3. Go to Settings > System > Test System.
4. Press Test next to Complete Sensor Signal Test.

 This confirms your sensors are properly connected and communicating with the monitoring center.

Need Extra Help?

If you run into trouble or prefer hands-on assistance, our support team is always happy to help. Reach out to us via chat, email, or phone anytime!