Factory Resetting Aeotec Devices
Homeowner Summary
A factory reset returns an Aeotec device to its out-of-the-box state and clears it from your Z-Wave network. It's the standard fix when a device won't pair or unpair, stays offline after repeated attempts, or needs to be moved to a different controller. After a reset the device is "blank" and must be re-paired to your Shipshape gateway before it works again.
You should only factory reset when troubleshooting steps haven't worked, or when a Shipshape installer or support agent walks you through it. The exact button sequence differs by device, so use the section for your specific device below. If you're unsure which device you have, the model number is printed on the device label (for example, ZWA019, ZW096, ZW189).
When to Perform a Factory Reset
Perform a manual factory reset only when:
- The device fails to pair or unpair through the mobile app.
- The device remains offline or unresponsive after multiple attempts.
- You are transferring ownership of the device to another controller or hub.
After a factory reset, the device must be re-paired to the network before it reports data again.
Device Reset Instructions
Aeotec Water Sensor 7 Pro (ZWA019)
Where it's installed: usually near water heaters, sump pumps, or under sinks.
- Remove the cover of the Water Sensor 7 Pro.
- Press and hold the tamper switch for 5 seconds until the red LED blinks.
- Release the tamper switch.
- Immediately press and hold the tamper switch again for 5 seconds until the red LED blinks.
Aeotec Smart Switch 6 (ZW096)
Where it's installed: plugged into a wall outlet to monitor or control an appliance.
- Press and hold the Action Button for 20 seconds.
- The LED cycles through colors: yellow → purple → red (blinking faster and faster) → green (factory reset successful) → rainbow (waiting to pair to a new network).
- When the LED turns green, release the Action Button.
- When the LED enters the rainbow state, the switch is ready to pair to a new network.
Aeotec Range Extender 7 (ZW189)
Where it's installed: between the gateway and distant devices to extend Z-Wave range.
- Press and hold the Z-Wave Button for 20 seconds. The LED progresses as you hold it:
- ~1 second: LED turns off.
- ~2 seconds: LED flashes slowly.
- ~5 seconds: LED flashes rapidly.
- ~8 seconds: LED fades in and out, speeding up every few seconds.
- ~20 seconds: LED becomes solid for 2 seconds, then fades slowly in and out to confirm the reset.
- Release the button. A slow "breathing" LED means it's ready to pair to a new gateway.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Likely cause | Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Device doesn't enter pairing mode | Incomplete factory reset | Repeat the reset; hold the button for the full duration (e.g., 20s) |
| Device not detected after reset | Controller cache issue | Power-cycle the gateway and retry pairing |
| LED doesn't light up | Device not powered | Check the outlet or replace the battery |
| Still not pairing after reset | Z-Wave interference | Move the device closer to the gateway, or temporarily power down other nearby nodes |
When to Call a Professional
If a device still won't pair after a successful factory reset and a gateway power-cycle, contact Shipshape support or your installer. A device that resets (LED confirms) but never rejoins the network can indicate a failing radio, a gateway issue, or network interference that needs a closer look.
Reference
- Aeotec product manuals: Support — Aeotec