SimpliSafe Keypad Not Responding? (7 Proven Solutions!)

SimpliSafe keypad not responding can be frustrating as this device is vital to the operation of your home security system.

You might notice that the screen is stuck or that pressing the button doesn’t change any setting. If this is your case, don’t worry; we have you covered.

To fix a SimpliSafe keypad that is not working, check your WiFi signal strength and power cycle the keypad. Next, disconnect and reconnect your SimpliSafe to its base.

Now that you know the general solutions to fix a SimpliSafe keypad, let’s first see the underlying causes.

Why is My SimpliSafe Keypad Not Responding?

Most issues with SimpliSafe keypads are generally caused by two primary causes – either there is a fault with the device itself or its installation and setup.

At times, external factors such as the WiFi network can also prevent it from working properly.

Here is a list of the most common causes of your SimpliSafe keypad not responding: 

Now that you have a clearer understanding of what causes the SimpliSafe keypad to malfunction let’s try out some troubleshooting steps.

How to Fix SimpliSafe Keypad Not Responding?

Tip: Based on your exact SimpliSafe model, the steps below might vary.

Solution 1: Check Wireless Signal Strength

The first step you should perform whenever the keypad not responding SimpliSafe is to check the signal strength for issues.

If the WiFi signal is too weak, it might cause your device screen to be stuck and appear as not working.

Here are the basic steps to verify your SimpliSafe network strength:

1. Move the SimpliSafe keypad closer to the base station.
2. Check for any physical obstructions that may be affecting the wireless signal.
3. Ensure no electronic devices are interfering with your keypad.
4. Relocate the base station to improve signal strength.
5. Access the SimpliSafe settings and check the wireless signal strength for the keypad.
6. If the signal is weak, consider installing a Range Extender for your SimpliSafe system.

Afterward, check the keypad’s responsiveness, and if the issue persists, proceed with the steps below.

Note: Look for devices that may cause interference near the SimpliSafe keypad.

Solution 2: Power Cycle the SimpliSafe Keypad

SimpliSafe not responding to remotes or keypad can sometimes be resolved by performing a simple power cycle of the device.

This process can clear out some software errors by discharging residual static that is built up inside your keypad’s circuit board.

Here are the steps on how to power cycle your SimpliSafe Keypad:

1. Unplug the power source from the SimpliSafe keypad.
2. Remove the backup batteries from the keypad.
3. Wait for at least 25 seconds to ensure a complete power cycle.
4. Reinsert the backup batteries into the keypad.
5. Plug the power source back into the SimpliSafe keypad.
6. Wait for the keypad to power up and initialize.
7. Test if the SimpliSafe keypad now responds by pressing various buttons.

Be mindful that if your device has a child lock on, it might not respond. This can usually be cleared through the app or keypad itself.

Note: Avoid placing the keypad in overly humid areas.

Solution 3: Check Battery Levels

As your SimpliSafe has a backup battery, it can still function during a power outage; if the batteries are low or depleted, it might not respond to any input.

To prevent this scenario from occurring, you have to manually check and replace its batteries periodically.

1. Open the battery compartment on the SimpliSafe keypad.
2. Remove the batteries and check their power levels if possible.
3. If the batteries are low, replace them with fresh ones.
4. Ensure the batteries are inserted correctly, following the polarity markings.
5. Close the battery compartment securely.
6. Power cycle the keypad by unplugging and reinserting its power source.

After these steps, test the SimpliSafe keypad to see if it responds properly.

Note: Clean your keypad to remove dust or debris.

Solution 4: Reconnect the SimpliSafe Keypad to the Base Station

A clever workaround to your SimpliSafe keypad being unresponsive is to add and then disconnect it from its base station.

Please use proper safety equipment whenever you are checking or handling your keypad wire installation.

Here are the general steps to reconnect your SimpliSafe keypad to its base:

1. Note that these steps require you to have a working WiFi connection.
2. Access the SimpliSafe app or web interface.
3. Navigate to the device settings and select the keypad in question.
4. Choose the option to disconnect the keypad from the base station.
5. Wait for a moment, then reconnect the keypad to your base station.
6. Ensure both the keypad and base station display a successful connection.
7. Test the keypad by entering your PIN and checking for a response.

If the issue persists, consider removing and re-adding the keypad in the SimpliSafe settings one more time.

Note: During installation of your security system, it's best to avoid placing sensors near heaters.

Solution 5: Update Firmware on Your SimpliSafe Components

If your SimpliSafe setup has outdated firmware, it can cause incompatibility between the modules.

This can also cause the screen to freeze up and can sometimes be cleared with a prompt update.

Here are the instructions to update your SimpliSafe software:

1. Access your SimpliSafe app or web interface.
2. Select the SimpliSafe keypad from the interface.
3. Check for available firmware updates for the SimpliSafe keypad.
4. If an update is available, initiate the firmware update process.
5. Allow the update to complete and your SimpliSafe system to reboot.
6. Once the reboot is complete, test the keypad for responsiveness.

You can also ensure all other SimpliSafe components are also updated in the same steps.

Note: Make sure the SimpliSafe keypad isn't placed in direct sunlight.

Solution 6: Perform a Keypad Factory Reset

If you have tried all of the steps above, but your SimpliSafe is still not responding, you might need to perform a hard or factory reset.

This will remove any settings and data from your device that might cause it to freeze or appear stuck.

Here are the steps to hard reset your SimpliSafe device:

1. Locate the reset button on the SimpliSafe keypad.
2. Press and hold the reset button for at least 10 seconds.
3. Release the reset button when the keypad’s lights start flashing.
4. Wait for the keypad to reset and restart.
5. Reconnect the keypad to the base station following the setup process.
6. Ensure the keypad displays a successful connection.

Alternatively, you can press the menu button on your keypad, input your SimpliSafe master PIN, and then factory reset it from the menu.

Note: All saved data will be erased from your SimpliSafe keypad after a hard reset.

Solution 7: Clean the Keypad and Check for Physical Damage

If, even after factory resetting your keypad, it’s still not responsive, your device may have suffered some hardware damage.

In this case, you can perform a basic checkup to verify the device’s integrity and identify damage, such as burns or wiring issues.

Here are the steps to check your SimpliSafe for physical damage: 

1. Inspect the SimpliSafe keypad for any physical damage or water exposure.
2. If there’s damage, don’t attempt to repair it on your own, as it can void the warranty.
3. Clean the keypad using a soft, dry cloth to remove any debris or dirt.
4. Ensure all buttons on the keypad are not stuck or jammed.
5. If there are signs of water exposure, allow the keypad to dry thoroughly.
6. Test the keypad after cleaning and inspecting for physical damage.

If the issue persists, consider replacing the keypad or contacting SimpliSafe support.

Note: Some fire departments might require a special alarm permit, so check with your state laws.

Quick Recap

To fix the SimpliSafe keypad not responding, start by verifying your WiFi connectivity and then add and remove the device from its base.

Next, perform a hard reset and clean the keypad.