Many Arlo camera models operate wirelessly using rechargeable batteries, although some are directly plugged into power outlets. Despite promising over 6 months of battery life, eventually, you’ll need to recharge them. When your Arlo camera stops charging, it jeopardizes your security setup because you can no longer rely on it.
Whether battery-powered or plugged in, the camera’s performance hinges on having a stable power source – no power means no functionality.
How To Fix Arlo Camera Not Charging
If you have an Arlo camera, it comes with either a magnetic strip or a USB charging cable (for Arlo Essentials wire-free models). Make sure you use the same cable that came with your camera when recharging to avoid any compatibility issues.
The charging cables included in the box are only for indoor use. If you need to charge your camera outdoors, you’ll need to get an outdoor charging cable or an Arlo Solar Panel.
Always check that your cables are securely connected and the magnetic charger snaps into place. If needed, disconnect the cables and reattach them firmly.
Here are some tips to help you get your Arlo camera charging properly:
- Use the original cable that came with your camera.
- Ensure the cable is securely connected.
- If charging outdoors, use an outdoor cable or Arlo Solar Panel.
Check Your Arlo Camera Charging Cable
To recharge your Arlo camera’s battery, start by plugging both ends of the charging cable—whether it’s USB or magnetic—into both the camera and the power adapter.
Next, connect the AC adapter to a wall outlet to your camera. Your camera’s battery will then begin to recharge.
The charging cable plays a crucial role in transferring power from the AC adapter to your Arlo Cam for charging its battery. It is important to ensure the cable is securely inserted into both the AC power adapter and your Arlo camera.
Inspect the cable ends for any cracks or dirt, as these could prevent the cable from working properly.
If you’re experiencing issues, try using a different cable to determine if the problem lies with the charging cable itself.
Fixing Your Camera Charging Issue Due to a Faulty Wall Outlet
If your camera isn’t charging, it might be because the wall outlet is faulty and not supplying enough power.
Try plugging your adapter into a different wall outlet to check if the camera starts charging. If it does, then the problem lies with the original outlet.
In such a situation, it’s a good idea to contact an electrician to fix the socket.
It’s also crucial to ensure that the voltage of the outlet matches what your AC adapter can handle. Using an outlet with too high voltage can harm both your adapter and camera.
You can use a multimeter to measure the voltage. A properly functioning outlet typically shows a reading of 110-120 volts.
Ensure Proper Battery Connection and Reinsert
If your camera isn’t charging properly, it could be due to the battery not securely fitting into its compartment.
For the charger to effectively power up your battery, it’s crucial that both the charging port and battery terminals are properly aligned.
Here’s a simple fix: if your camera allows you to remove the battery, gently take it out and inspect the charging terminals. Once you’re sure they’re clean and undamaged, carefully place the battery back into its slot and test the charging function again.
To ensure a good electrical connection, it’s also helpful to wipe off any dust or dirt that may have gathered on the terminals. Don’t forget to clean both sides of the magnetic connection too, as this can significantly improve the charging process.
Check Your Power Adapter
As mentioned earlier, the power adapter plays a crucial role in charging your Arlo camera. It takes AC power from a wall socket and converts it into the DC power needed to charge the camera’s battery.
Over time, this adapter can get damaged due to mishandling or strong electrical surges. This can cause your Arlo camera to stop charging.
If you’re facing this issue, I recommend trying a new AC adapter for your Arlo Camera. You can purchase one from the Arlo store or on Amazon. This might resolve the problem of your camera not charging.
Note: If you’re using a solar charging panel, ensure it’s placed where it can get sufficient sunlight to charge your camera.
Factory Reset The Camera
Resetting your camera back to its factory settings can resolve issues caused by corrupted configuration files, which might be affecting its performance. Starting fresh could be the solution you need to get your cameras working smoothly again.
Depending on the type of camera you own, you may need to release it from its housing to access the sync button.
To initiate the reset process, press and hold the SYNC button for approximately 15 to 20 seconds. When the camera’s LED begins blinking blue, release the button and allow the reset to proceed.
After resetting, remove the camera from the Arlo app.
Once the camera is reset and in pairing mode, follow these steps: open the Arlo app, select “add new device,” then choose “Cameras” and your specific camera model. Select your Base Station and follow the in-app instructions to sync the camera.
Once your camera is online, test the live stream to ensure it’s properly synced with the cloud servers. Then, adjust the detection settings according to your preferences for each Mode.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring your Arlo camera stays charged is crucial for home security. Whether using batteries or plugged in, a stable power source is essential for functionality.
If your camera isn’t charging, start by checking the cable. Use the original one and ensure it’s securely connected. Outdoors? Use an outdoor cable or Arlo Solar Panel.
Try a different wall outlet if yours is faulty. Ensure voltage matches your adapter’s needs. If it’s the battery, remove and reinsert it for a good connection. Clean the terminals for better contact.
The power adapter is crucial. If damaged, replace it with a new one from Arlo or Amazon. Factory reset your camera if needed, ensuring proper syncing afterward.
