Understanding contact sensors on tilt windows
A basic magnetic contact measures separation, not necessarily closed, tilted and fully open as three distinct states.
A window is tilted while the app still reports closed. That need not be a wireless fault. A basic contact responds to the distance between its sensor and magnet. If both sit near the lower pivot, tilting may leave them close enough to retain the closed state.
Define the information you need. Must every opening be detected? Do you need to distinguish tilt from full opening, or know the handle position? These are different measurement tasks. Renaming a binary contact in an app cannot turn it into a reliable three-state sensor.
Test every real position
Try the proposed mounting position temporarily. Observe closed, tilted and fully open states while operating the window normally. Allow for any reporting delay and record the actual result rather than the meaning you hoped to obtain.
The exact model's alignment marks and maximum gap still apply when closed. Stepped frames, seals and metal profiles may complicate fitting. Use supported spacing arrangements and ensure the housing does not obstruct the sash. A sensor must not compromise normal mechanical operation.
If every tilt movement must be detected, another suitable position may be necessary. It must also work when fully opened and remain within the manufacturer's requirements. If that is not achievable, choose a system intended for the distinction rather than relying on uncertain interpretation.
Build rules around the real measurement
A heating rule that reacts to an open window should be tested with every intended position. Check what happens after closing and when communication is interrupted. An old last-known state is different from fresh confirmation of the current position.
A closed magnetic contact normally does not establish that the handle is locked. Describe its meaning accordingly to the household. Understanding that limit makes the information useful without attributing an unmeasured property to the window.
Repeat the full movement test after final attachment. Later, recheck alignment and adhesion after cleaning the frame or changing a seal. Small physical changes can alter a previously successful arrangement.
