How To Install Simplisafe Entry Sensor On Door With Molding

Alright, you've got your Simplisafe system, ready to defend your castle (or, you know, your apartment) against the forces of... unwanted mailmen? Overzealous squirrels? Whatever keeps you up at night, we're here to help! Today, we're tackling the mighty task of installing those entry sensors on doors with that fancy molding.

Gather Your Arsenal!

First things first, let's round up the troops! You'll need:

• Your Simplisafe Entry Sensor kit (obviously!)
• The adhesive strips that came with the kit – consider them your secret weapon.
• A pencil – for marking your territory (or, you know, the placement).
• A clean cloth – dust bunnies are the enemy of good adhesion!

Optional, but potentially life-saving:

• Rubbing alcohol – for super-powered cleaning.
• A level – if you're a perfectionist (we won't judge!).

Location, Location, Location!

Okay, deep breaths. This is the most important part. Find that perfect spot for your sensor. Remember, the goal is to have the sensor and the magnet aligned when the door is closed. Think of it like a superhero team-up – they need to be close to each other to work!

Now, here's where the molding throws a wrench in the works. Those decorative flourishes can make a flat surface a distant memory. Don't panic! We can outsmart it.

The Molding Maneuver

Most entry sensors have two pieces: the sensor itself and a smaller magnet. You want to mount the sensor on the door frame and the magnet on the door. Close the door and hold the sensor and magnet in place to see if they line up well.

Here are a few strategies to tackle that molding:

• Embrace the Gap: Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. See if you can mount the sensor above or below the molding. The small distance is usually not enough to mess up the connection between sensor and magnet.
• The Shimmy Solution: If the gap created by the molding is too much, you might need a shim. A shim is just a small piece of something – cardboard, wood, even a stack of sticky notes – that you place behind the sensor or magnet to bring it closer to its partner. Get creative! You may need more then one shim if the molding is deep.

Time to Stick!

Alright, you've got your location scouted, your shims (if needed) are ready, and your heart is pounding with anticipation. Let's get sticky!

1. Cleanliness is Next to... Security: Wipe down the areas where you'll be sticking the sensor and magnet with a clean cloth. If you're feeling extra cautious, use a little rubbing alcohol to banish any lingering dust or grime.
2. Peel and Stick (Like a Pro): Remove the backing from the adhesive strips on both the sensor and the magnet.
3. Precision Placement: Carefully line up the sensor and magnet (or the shim!) and press them firmly onto the door and frame. Hold them in place for a good 30 seconds to let the adhesive bond. Imagine you are doing CPR to the sensor and the door, just press hard and evenly.

Test, Test, 1, 2, 3!

Congratulations! You've (probably) successfully installed your entry sensor. But don't start celebrating just yet. It's time to test that bad boy out.

Open and close the door a few times, and check your Simplisafe app to make sure the sensor is registering the changes. If it's not working, don't fret! Double-check the alignment of the sensor and magnet. Make sure the shims are doing their job. And if all else fails, consult the Simplisafe troubleshooting guide or call their support team.

Victory Lap!

You did it! You conquered the molding and installed your entry sensor like a true security superstar! Now go forth and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is a little bit safer, all thanks to your ingenuity and a little bit of sticky tape. Time for a celebratory nap, you deserve it!