Simplisafe Entry Monitors: Easy Tape Removal Tricks

SimpliSafe is a self-install security system that is designed to be easy to install and remove. The SimpliSafe Entry Sensor has two parts: the larger part, which contains the communication technology and the button used to initiate the pairing process, and the smaller part, which contains a magnet. When the magnetic bond is broken, a signal is sent to the SimpliSafe system. Each part comes with an adhesive strip on the back, as well as a pair of screw holes with accompanying screws. If you used the adhesive method to install the sensor, you can remove it by gently prying it off the wall. If you used screws, simply remove the top portion to expose the mounting plate and unscrew the plate.

Removing the entry sensor

SimpliSafe entry sensors are designed to be easy to remove so that you can rearrange them as your security needs change. The entry sensor has two parts: the sensor and the magnet. The sensor is placed on the door or window, and the magnet is placed on the door or window frame.

If you used screws to attach the entry sensor, you can remove it by taking off the top portion to expose the mounting plate and unscrewing the plate. If you used the adhesive method, you will need to gently pry the sensor off the wall. If you feel any resistance when removing the adhesive from the wall, try rotating or wiggling it before gently pulling it off.

To remove the magnet portion, you will need to use a hairdryer and a butter knife. First, warm up the area with the hairdryer to soften the adhesive strip. Then, push the tip of the butter knife beneath the magnet portion of the sensor until it comes off.

If you need to remove the entry sensor from a metal door, place a thin piece of cardboard between the sensor and the surface. For a magnetic door or frame, place the smaller magnet piece of the sensor on the magnetic surface.

Removing the magnet portion

SimpliSafe sensors are designed to be easy to install and remove. The entry sensor magnet uses a slightly different adhesive than the other sensors. To remove the magnet portion of the sensor, you can try the following methods:

• Rotate the magnet slowly in one direction until the adhesive loosens, and then pull it off the wall.
• Gently rock the sensor back and forth with a slight twisting motion.
• Use a putty knife to remove the sensor.
• Push one side of the sensor up with your thumb and then push up on the other side in a seesawing motion until the adhesive loosens.
• Use floss or dental floss to slide between the sensor and the wall, helping to loosen the adhesive.
• Apply heat to the adhesive with a blow dryer, which may help to loosen it.

If you are removing a screwed-in sensor, simply unscrew the sensor from its backplate and then unscrew the backplate from the wall.

Using a hair dryer

SimpliSafe entry sensor monitors are attached to doors and windows to detect intruders. They are designed to be easy to install and remove. The sensor is placed on the door or window, and the magnet is placed on the door or window frame.

The sensor has two parts: the larger part contains the communication technology and the button used to initiate the pairing process, and the smaller part has a magnet. When the magnetic bond is broken, a signal is sent to the SimpliSafe system. Each part comes with an adhesive strip on the back, as well as a pair of screw holes with accompanying screws.

If you used the adhesive method to attach the sensor, you can use a hair dryer to remove the entry sensor monitor. First, warm up the area using the hair dryer, softening the adhesive strip. With some luck, you may be able to simply pull it off. If not, use a butter knife to push beneath the magnet portion of the sensor until it comes off.

It is important to note that the adhesives on SimpliSafe sensors are designed to come off cleanly on almost any surface, although it depends on the quality of the paint. When removing the sensor, pull gently but firmly on the non-sticky tab, stretching out the material so that the actual "sticky" surface comes apart, losing its grip on the wall.

For the smaller magnet piece of the entry sensor, slowly rotate the magnet to loosen the adhesive before pulling it off.

Applying pressure to the adhesive

To remove the SimpliSafe entry monitor, you can start by gently prying it off the wall. If you feel any resistance when removing the adhesive from the wall, try rotating or wiggling it before gently pulling it off. Applying pressure to the adhesive by rotating or wiggling the monitor will help to loosen the grip of the adhesive on the wall, making it easier to remove.

The rotation technique is especially useful for removing the smaller half of the entry sensor, which does not have a pull tab. By slowly rotating the monitor back and forth, you can create enough force to break the adhesive bond without causing damage to the wall or the sensor. This method is recommended by SimpliSafe employees and has proven effective for many users.

If you encounter stubborn adhesive residue, you can try using a hairdryer to apply heat to the adhesive. Heating the adhesive softens the glue, making it easier to remove. However, be cautious when using a hairdryer near the entry monitor to avoid potential damage from excessive heat. Alternatively, you can use dental floss or a thin piece of string to saw through the adhesive. This method requires careful manoeuvring to avoid scratching the wall or the sensor.

For more challenging adhesive residue, you can use an adhesive remover or a solvent such as rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover (acetone). Apply a small amount of the remover or solvent to a cloth or cotton ball and gently rub it onto the adhesive until it softens and can be wiped away. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the remover or solvent does not damage the surface.

In some cases, the adhesive may be particularly stubborn and require a stronger solution. A product like Goo Gone or a similar adhesive remover can be used, but it should be tested on a small area first to ensure it does not damage the surface. After applying the remover, use a plastic scraper to gently lift the adhesive off the wall. This method may require some elbow grease, but it can effectively remove the remaining adhesive.

Reusing the same spot

If you used the adhesive method to attach your SimpliSafe entry sensor, you will need to remove the top portion to expose the base. You will then notice the rounded tape strip sticking out. Grab the rounded end of the tape strip and pull it off while holding the base with your other hand. Keep pulling, and it will eventually come off.

For the magnet portion, you will need a butter knife and a hairdryer. First, warm up the area with the hairdryer to soften the adhesive. If this doesn't work, use the butter knife to push under the magnet portion of the sensor until it comes off.

Once you have removed all the old adhesive from the sensor, you can replace it with new adhesive. SimpliSafe Entry Sensors can use 3M Command Strip Adhesive Tape to stick to windows, doors, and walls. For the magnet portion, consider a roll of 3M VHB Tape, which stands for Very High Bond. This tape is a permanent bond and should not be relocated, so be sure it's in the proper position before use.

When applying the new tape, be sure to apply at least 30 seconds of pressure to the sensor and then another 30 seconds when adhering it to the flat surface.

Frequently asked questions