Comprehensive Guide to Resolving Arlo Camera Charging Problems
If your Arlo security camera, whether it’s an Arlo Pro, Pro 2, 3, or 4, isn’t charging as expected, don’t worry. This detailed troubleshooting guide will walk you through the most common causes and effective solutions to restore proper charging and ensure your device functions optimally.
Understanding Why Your Arlo Camera Might Not Be Charging
Several factors could be preventing your Arlo camera from charging correctly. These include:
- Using an incompatible or faulty power adapter
- Improper connection of the charging cable to the power source
- Unsealed or damaged USB port cover on the device
- Malfunctioning battery or power components
- Hardware issues within the camera itself
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Charging Issues
1. Verify You Are Using the Correct Power Adapter
The first step is to confirm that your charging setup includes the appropriate power adapter. An authentic Arlo power adapter typically displays:
- The NETGEAR or Arlo logo
- A lightning bolt icon, symbolizing power
- Output specifications indicating 9V or 11A
If your current adapter matches these details, proceed to the next step. Otherwise, replace it with a genuine Arlo power adapter to avoid compatibility issues.
2. Ensure Proper Insertion of the Charging Cable
Sometimes, the simplest fix is the most effective. Carefully disconnect the charging cable from the power adapter, then reconnect it firmly, ensuring it fits snugly without any looseness. Also, double-check that the cable’s connection to the camera’s charging port is secure. Loose connections can hinder charging, so make sure everything is tightly connected before testing again.
3. Check the USB Port Cover and Clean the Ports
The USB port cover on your Arlo camera plays a vital role in maintaining the device’s internal integrity. If this cover is loose or missing, it may lead to battery drain or prevent proper charging. Examine the port cover, and if it’s displaced or damaged, reseal or replace it.
In cases where debris or dust has accumulated inside the USB port, cleaning is necessary. Dampen a cotton swab with alcohol-based sanitizer and gently wipe the port to remove any dirt or residue. This ensures a tight seal and optimal contact for charging.
4. Remove and Reinstall the Battery and Power Adapter
If your camera still isn’t charging, try removing the battery and reconnecting it. To do this, press the round button beside the charging port to unlock the battery compartment. Carefully extract the battery, then inspect it for signs of damage or corrosion. Clean the contacts with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol sanitizer.
Reinsert the battery securely, reconnect the power adapter to the outlet, and monitor if charging resumes. This reset can resolve minor hardware glitches affecting power intake.
5. Replace the Power Adapter if Necessary
If previous steps haven’t resolved the issue, consider that your power adapter may be faulty. To verify, check your Arlo app for warning messages such as: ‘The charging source connected to the camera cannot charge your battery. Please use an Arlo power adapter’. If this message appears, replacing the adapter with a new, genuine Arlo unit is recommended. Ensure the new adapter matches the required specifications before use.
6. Swap Out the Camera Battery
A defective or degraded battery could be the culprit. To test this, remove the current battery and insert it into another compatible Arlo device. If it fails to charge in the second device, the battery likely needs replacement.
Follow these steps to replace the battery:
- Press the circular button beside the charging port to free the battery.
- Detach the camera from its housing and remove the existing battery.
- Insert a new, fully charged battery into the compartment.
- Secure the camera back into its housing.
This process should restore charging capability. If the new battery charges in another device, proceed to the next step.
7. Reset Your Camera for a Fresh Start
If all previous troubleshooting methods fail, resetting the camera can resolve underlying software or hardware glitches. To perform a reset:
- Hold down the Sync button for approximately 15 seconds until an amber LED begins flashing.
- Release the button once the light flashes, indicating a successful reset.
Note: Resetting erases all customized settings. You’ll need to reconfigure your camera and re-add it to your Arlo account following the setup instructions below.
Re-Adding Your Camera After Reset
To re-establish connection:
- Open the Arlo app and select Add New Device.
- Navigate to Select Your Arlo Device and choose Cameras.
- Pick Others and then select Arlo.
- Choose your Base Station and tap Continue.
- Insert the batteries into your camera if prompted. If already inserted, click Continue.
- Hold the Sync button on the camera for 2 seconds, then release.
- When the camera’s blue flashing light appears, tap Continue.
- Wait for the app to detect the camera and display it on-screen.
- Assign a name to your device and finalize by tapping Finish.
Your camera should now begin charging and be fully operational. If issues persist, contact Arlo Support for further assistance.
Final Tips and Recommendations
Always use authentic Arlo accessories to prevent compatibility issues. Regularly inspect your cables, ports, and batteries for wear and tear. Keep your firmware and app updated to benefit from the latest improvements and fixes. Proper maintenance and cautious handling of your device will ensure reliable performance and longevity.
Conclusion
Addressing charging problems with your Arlo camera involves a systematic approach—checking the power supply, connections, hardware integrity, and resetting procedures. By following these comprehensive steps, you can resolve most issues and keep your security system functioning smoothly. Remember, if all else fails, reaching out to Arlo Support is the best course of action to ensure your device receives professional assistance.
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