How to Remove a Smart Device from an Old Home

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Open the device settings menu

   Launch the Apple Home app on your iPhone or iPad. Navigate to the room containing the device, long-press the device icon, and tap the gear icon in the bottom-right corner to open the Accessory Settings menu.

   Note: Ensure your device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your hub.
2. 1 min

   Delete the device from the digital home

   Scroll to the bottom of the Accessory Settings page. Select Remove Accessory and confirm the action when prompted. This command breaks the digital handshake between the hardware and your HomeKit configuration.

3. 1 min

   Perform a physical factory reset

   Locate the physical reset button on the smart device or initiate the reset sequence via the manufacturer's power cycle method. Consult your specific hardware manual if the device requires a specific pulse pattern on the LED indicator to confirm a successful wipe.

   Note: A factory reset is mandatory to remove your network credentials from the hardware's internal memory.
4. 1 min

   Confirm removal from secondary services

   If the device is linked to an account such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home, open those respective apps. Navigate to the device settings and select Remove or Unlink to ensure the device is fully dissociated from your cloud profiles.

5. 1 min

   Power down the disconnected hardware

   Disconnect the device from its power source or remove the batteries. Your device is now scrubbed of personal configurations, making it safe to leave in an old home or prepare for a new owner.

   Note: Mark the device as 'ready' if you intend to resell it.