Troubleshooting
For more information, call Contech at 1-800-767-8658 (in Canada or USA), 1-250-413-3250 (overseas), or send an e-mail to us.
- There is no response when I put my hand in front of the StayAway.
- The alarm tone on the StayAway is very weak and dies out.
- The StayAway makes noise but produces no spray.
- My cat is not responding to the spray on the StayAway anymore.
- The StayAway is leaking.
- Can I use the StayAway outside?
- Is the StayAway safe to use around children?
There is no response when I put my hand in front of the StayAway.
There may be no response when you put your hand in front of your StayAway if:
1. The unit is turned off.
Hey, it happens. Be sure your unit is turned on.
2. You need new batteries.
Use only brand new, fresh-from-the-package, AAA alkaline batteries. We recommend you check the expiry date on the package and use only good quality name brand batteries for best results.
Occasionally, customers will tell us they tested their batteries before putting them into our products but battery testers can only tell you if there is a charge available. They can't tell you whether or not those batteries are capable of handling the load from a working product. Always use new batteries.
3. Be sure you're testing your StayAway with something that has a different temperature than the background temperature. The infrared sensor senses a change in heat. If you wave a wooden spoon or other inanimate object in front of the unit, nothing will happen. If your hand isn't producing a response, try walking in front of it.
If these solutions do not help, please call our customer service number at 1-800-767-8658.
The alarm tone on the StayAway is very weak and dies out.
The alarm tone on your StayAway may be very weak and die out if:
1. The switch is not directly on the correct setting.
Check your switch and move it to the setting you desire.
2. You need to change the batteries.
Use only brand new, fresh-from-the-package, AAA alkaline batteries. We recommend you check the expiry date on the package and use only good quality name brand batteries for best results.
Occasionally, customers will tell us they tested their batteries before putting them into our products but battery testers can only tell you if there is a charge available. They can't tell you whether or not those batteries are capable of handling the load from a working product. Always use new batteries.
If you are still having difficulty after trying these solutions, please call our customer service number at 1-800-767-8658.
The StayAway makes noise but produces no spray.
Your StayAway may make noise but produce no spray if:
1. The can is empty.
To order a refill can of spray call our customer service number at 1-800-767-8658.
2. It needs to be reset.
Turn the StayAway off and then on again. Wait a few seconds for it to reset and then try it again.
3. It isn't set correctly.
Check to be sure it's on the right setting. If it isn't, set it correctly then turn it off and back on to reset it.
4. You need to change the batteries.
Use only brand new, fresh-from-the-package, AAA alkaline batteries. We recommend you check the expiry date on the package and use only good quality name brand batteries for best results.
Occasionally, customers will tell us they tested their batteries before putting them into our products but battery testers can only tell you if there is a charge available. They can't tell you whether or not those batteries are capable of handling the power demand of a working product. Always use new batteries.
My cat is not responding to the spray on the StayAway anymore.
Your cat might not be responding to the spray on the StayAway anymore if:
1. Your cat became used to the unit.
This doesn't happen very often but we have heard of it. Try putting the StayAway somewhere new to reintroduce the element of surprise. Our customers have reported success after doing so.
2. You might need to use a different product.
We also sell the ScatMat. You can find more information about the ScatMat at www.scatmat.com.
The StayAway is leaking.
Your StayAway might be leaking if:
1. The black ring that locks the sensor head onto the top of the can has not locked properly.
Check to see if the head is properly seated on the can. Then push the black ring down firmly. Don't be afraid to push hard. It may require some force. This should solve the problem.
2. The head has failed in some way.
You'll need a new head.
For assistance, please call our customer service number at 1-800-767-8658.
Can I use the StayAway outside?
Yes. During the warm weather months, you can use it in covered areas outside. We mention warm weather because the StayAway is not meant to be used in freezing weather.
If the can will be in an area where it might get damp from evening dew, be certain to use the standing base to protect furniture or painted finishes.
Is the StayAway safe to use around children?
Keep the StayAway out of the reach of children. Exposure to the gas stream in very close proximity may cause frostbite to the skin or eyes.
Please do not leave small children unsupervised near the StayAway. The StayAway cannot tell the difference between your pet and your child. It will go off when either goes near it. Treat the StayAway like any other propellant in the home. Keep it out of the reach of children.