Removing Doorbell Camera From Simplisafe: A Step-By-Step Guide

Removing a SimpliSafe doorbell camera can be a challenging task, especially if the security screw is stripped or stuck. The official method involves using the T5 Torx screwdriver that comes with the Video Doorbell Pro to remove the security screw at the bottom of the device. However, some customers have encountered difficulties with this method, requiring alternative approaches. One suggestion is to place a rubber band between the screw and the screwdriver to provide extra grip. In cases where the screw is severely stripped, drilling it out or using a Dremel tool might be necessary, although these methods require caution to avoid damage. SimpliSafe has also recommended resetting the doorbell by temporarily setting up a WiFi network with the same credentials as the previously used network. This allows the device to reset itself and connect to a new network without physically detaching it from its mounting bracket.

Characteristics of Removing a SimpliSafe Doorbell Camera

Using the correct screwdriver

To remove your doorbell camera from SimpliSafe, you will need to use a screwdriver to remove the security screw at the bottom of the device. The security screw in the SimpliSafe doorbell camera is not a regular Phillips (plus-shaped) screw, but a Torx screw, specifically a T5 Torx. This type of screw requires a specific type of screwdriver with a six-pointed star-shaped head.

It is important to use the correct screwdriver to avoid stripping the screw, which can make it difficult or impossible to remove. If you no longer have the original screwdriver that came with your SimpliSafe Video Doorbell Pro, you can purchase a T5 Torx screwdriver from a hardware store.

Once you have the correct screwdriver, place it at the bottom of the device, where the security screw is located. Apply a gentle but firm force and turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to loosen the screw. You may need to apply some upward force while turning to get the screw to start moving. If the screw is already stripped, there are a few tricks you can try to remove it.

One method is to place a rubber band between the screw and the screwdriver to provide extra grip. This can help the screwdriver bite into the screw and allow you to turn it. You can also try applying a small amount of hot glue to the end of the screwdriver and holding it in place on the screw until it dries. This will create additional friction, which may be enough to remove the screw.

If the screw is severely stripped and none of the above methods work, you may need to resort to more drastic measures, such as drilling out the screw. This should be a last resort, as it can be difficult and may damage the doorbell camera. If you do need to drill out the screw, be sure to use eye protection for safety.

The rubber band trick

If you need to remove your SimpliSafe doorbell camera, you will need to use a Torx screwdriver, specifically a T5 Torx, to remove the security screw located at the bottom of the device. If the screw is stripped and won't come off, you can try the "rubber band trick".

Step 1:

Place a rubber band between the screw head and the screwdriver. This will help provide extra grip and friction, making it easier to turn the screw.

Step 2:

Insert the screwdriver with the rubber band into the screw head. Make sure the rubber band is securely in place and doesn't slip.

Step 3:

Turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to unscrew the stripped screw. The rubber band should provide enough grip to allow you to slowly back the screw out of its hole.

Step 4:

If the screw still doesn't come out, try using a pair of small pliers to grip the screw head and finish unscrewing it. You can also try removing the screw by hand if it has loosened enough.

If the rubber band trick doesn't work, there are other methods you can try, such as using hot glue or drilling out the screw, but these methods may require more tools and caution.

Drilling out the screw

If your SimpliSafe doorbell camera's security screw is stripped and you're unable to remove it with a screwdriver, you may need to resort to drilling it out. This can be a delicate operation, so it's important to proceed with caution and ensure you have the right tools and safety equipment. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Prepare the Necessary Tools and Safety Equipment:

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

• A Dremel tool or a drill
• A 1/16" carbide-tipped drill bit
• Eye protection
• Rubber bands (optional)

• Put on your eye protection to shield your eyes from any debris or fragments.
• If your drill or Dremel tool doesn't have adjustable speeds, set it to a low speed to ensure better control.
• Position the carbide-tipped drill bit at the centre of the stripped screw head.
• Start drilling slowly and carefully. Apply gentle pressure to allow the drill bit to bite into the screw head.
• Increase the speed gradually as the drill bit penetrates the screw. Be cautious not to exert too much force, as this may cause the screw to break or damage the surrounding area.
• Continue drilling until you've drilled through the screw or reached a depth that allows you to extract the screw with pliers or a similar tool.
• If the screw is stubborn and doesn't come out easily, you can try using a rubber band for added grip. Place the rubber band over the screw head and insert the drill bit or a flathead screwdriver into the rubber band. This extra friction may help you get the necessary grip to remove the screw.

Aftercare and Maintenance:

Once you've successfully drilled out the screw and removed the doorbell camera, it's important to take care of the area. Make sure to clean up any debris or metal shavings that may have accumulated during the drilling process. Additionally, consider applying a fresh coat of paint or finish to the area if it has been damaged or affected by the drilling process.

Remember to handle the drill or Dremel tool with caution and always prioritize your safety. If you're uncomfortable performing this task, consider seeking professional assistance or consulting a hardware store for additional advice.

Hot glue on the screwdriver

If you're struggling to remove your SimpliSafe doorbell camera, there's a handy trick you can try with a screwdriver and some hot glue. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

First, make sure you have the right screwdriver for the job. The security screw on the SimpliSafe doorbell camera is a T5 Torx type. If you still have the original screwdriver that came with your device, use that. Otherwise, you'll need to purchase a T5 Torx screwdriver.

Now, for the hot glue part:

Take your screwdriver and apply a small amount of hot glue to the end of the screwdriver bit. Be careful not to burn yourself! You only need a thin layer of glue to create a grippy texture on the screwdriver.

Quickly place the glued end of the screwdriver onto the security screw. Hold it firmly in place until the glue dries. This shouldn't take long, but it depends on the type of glue you're using. Check the instructions on the glue packaging for drying times.

Once the glue is dry, try turning the screwdriver counter-clockwise to unscrew the security screw. This should give you a better grip on the screw and help you remove it.

If the hot glue trick doesn't work, don't force the screwdriver too hard as you might strip the screw head. You may need to consider other options or contact SimpliSafe support for further advice.

Remember, it's important to be careful when handling hot glue and tools to avoid any accidents or damage to your property. Good luck with removing your doorbell camera!

Using a rubber mallet

If your SimpliSafe doorbell camera's security screw is stuck, you can try using a rubber mallet to knock it off. However, this method may not be the best option as it may damage the doorbell or the wall. If you do decide to use a rubber mallet, here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:

First, locate the security screw at the bottom of your SimpliSafe doorbell camera. This screw is typically a T5 or T7 Torx screw, which requires a specific type of screwdriver to remove. If you don't have the correct screwdriver, you can contact the SimpliSafe support team to request a replacement.

Before attempting to remove the screw with the rubber mallet, it is recommended to try some other methods first. One suggestion is to place a rubber band between the screw and the screwdriver to provide extra grip. This can help you gain enough traction to unscrew it by hand or with small pliers.

If the rubber band trick doesn't work, you can try applying some super glue or hot glue to the end of the screwdriver and holding it in place on the screw until it dries. This method has helped some SimpliSafe users remove the stuck security screw.

However, if you still can't remove the screw, you can carefully use the rubber mallet to knock the doorbell camera off the wall. Make sure to use eye protection and be gentle to avoid causing any damage to the surrounding area.

Once the camera is removed, you can either try to fix the stripped screw or contact SimpliSafe support to request a replacement screw. They can also provide assistance in setting up your doorbell camera again if needed. Remember to handle the situation with care to avoid any potential damage or injury.

Frequently asked questions