Aqara Motion and Presence Sensors Not Detecting Movement

Aqara offers various motion and presence sensors including PIR motion sensors (P1, P2) and the FP1E mmWave presence sensor. This guide covers detection issues across these sensor types.

Common Symptoms

  • Motion not triggering automations
  • Sensor showing offline or unavailable
  • Delayed motion detection
  • False triggers or constant motion alerts
  • Sensor not resetting after motion stops

PIR Motion Sensors (P1, P2)

Check Placement

  • Mount 1.2-2.4 meters high for optimal detection
  • Point sensor toward detection area (not at windows)
  • PIR sensors detect motion across the field of view, not toward/away
  • Avoid pointing at heat sources (radiators, vents)

Detection Settings

In Aqara Home or Home app:

  • Adjust sensitivity level (low/medium/high)
  • Check reset delay setting (how long until motion clears)
  • Set detection timing (all day vs specific times)

Battery Check

  • PIR sensors use CR2450 battery
  • Check battery level in app
  • Replace when below 20%
  • Battery life typically 2 years

FP1E Presence Sensor (mmWave)

Unique Capabilities

Unlike PIR, the FP1E detects stationary presence:

  • Can detect breathing and micro-movements
  • Better for room occupancy vs motion
  • Requires power (not battery operated)

Placement Considerations

  • Mount on wall or ceiling facing room
  • Avoid pointing through glass or at mirrors
  • Keep away from fans or moving objects
  • Detection range up to 5 meters

Zone Configuration

  1. Open Aqara Home app
  2. Select FP1E sensor
  3. Configure detection zones to include/exclude areas
  4. Set sensitivity for each zone

Connectivity Issues

Zigbee Sensors (P1, some P2)

  • Check hub is online and functioning
  • Sensor may be too far from hub or repeater
  • Add Zigbee repeaters (plugs) to extend mesh
  • Re-pair sensor if persistently offline

Matter/Thread Sensors (P2 Matter, FP1E Matter)

  • Ensure Thread border router is online
  • Check Thread network health in controller app
  • Add Thread devices to strengthen mesh

Re-Pairing Sensors

Factory Reset

  1. Remove from app/hub
  2. Hold reset button 5+ seconds until LED flashes
  3. Re-add as new device
  4. Keep close to hub during pairing

False Triggers

If sensor triggers without actual motion:

  • Lower sensitivity setting
  • Check for pets if pet immunity not enabled
  • Avoid pointing at windows (light changes trigger PIR)
  • FP1E: Exclude problematic zones

When to Contact Support

Contact Aqara support if:

  • Sensor won't reset after factory reset
  • LED doesn't respond to button presses
  • Battery drains within weeks
  • Consistent false triggers after optimization