Arlo Video Doorbell is a popular smart home device known for its advanced security features. However, it’s not uncommon for users to encounter issues with their Arlo doorbell not recording. In most cases, this problem arises due to the lack of an active Arlo Secure subscription plan, which is mandatory for utilizing the video recording feature. Other potential causes may include incorrect settings, or Wi-Fi connectivity issues.
Quick Takeaways
- An active Arlo Secure subscription is critical for recording functionality
- Wi-Fi connectivity and settings issues can contribute to recording problems
Table of Contents
Overview of Arlo Doorbell
Basic Features
Arlo Doorbell is a high-quality video doorbell system, designed to enhance your home’s security and make it easier to monitor your doorstep. Featuring a high-resolution camera, the doorbell allows you to get a clear view of whoever is at your door. With its two-way audio communication, you can speak with your visitors without having to open the door.
In addition to video and audio capabilities, Arlo Doorbell also offers smart motion detection, which sends alerts straight to your smartphone or compatible device when someone approaches your home. It also provides night vision functionality, ensuring that you’ll be able to monitor your doorstep even in the dark.
Furthermore, Arlo Doorbell is built with weather resistance in mind to withstand various weather conditions and temperature changes throughout the year.
Compatibility with Home Systems
Arlo Doorbell is designed with compatibility in mind, allowing you to integrate the video doorbell into your existing smart home system easily. Arlo Doorbell works seamlessly with popular smart home platforms such as Google Home and Amazon Alexa enabling you to control it with your voice or through the respective smart home app.
Additionally, the doorbell can be powered either through existing doorbell wiring or via a separate battery pack. This feature gives you the flexibility to install Arlo Doorbell in the way that best suits your home setup.
The Arlo Doorbell offers a variety of features designed to improve your home security, from its high-resolution video capabilities to its seamless compatibility with existing smart home systems. With this doorbell installed, you can monitor your doorstep with confidence, knowing you’re protected by a reliable and advanced home security solution.
Common Reasons for Arlo Doorbell Recording Issues
Power Issues
One of the possible causes of the Arlo Doorbell not recording can be due to power issues. Ensure that the power cord is plugged in securely to an outlet and that the camera is turned on. If the camera is powered on and still not recording, there may be a problem with your Arlo account or subscription.
Wi-Fi and Internet Connection
A stable Wi-Fi and internet connection is crucial for the Arlo Doorbell to function and record properly. Check your Wi-Fi connection and ensure that the doorbell has a strong signal. If you’re experiencing connection issues, try restarting your Wi-Fi router, moving the doorbell closer to the router, or troubleshooting any other connectivity problems.
Device Settings and Modes
Another reason for your Arlo Doorbell not recording may be due to misconfigured device settings and modes. Make sure that motion detection settings are enabled, as your Arlo Doorbell Camera can only record videos after motion has been detected.
Arlo Subscription Required
It’s also crucial that you’ve set up a recording subscription plan, as newer Arlo cameras require a subscription for cloud recordings.
High Ambient Temperature
Lastly, high ambient temperature can have an impact on the recording function of your Arlo Doorbell. If the temperature in your location is too high, the camera might shut down some features to prevent overheating. Make sure to keep an eye on the temperature and place your Arlo Doorbell in a location with adequate ventilation and protection from direct sunlight.
Troubleshooting: Arlo Video Doorbell Not Recording
Checking App and Device Settings
If your Arlo Doorbell is not recording, start by examining the settings on your app and device. Ensure that the motion settings are enabled; Arlo Doorbell cameras only record after detecting motion. Also, verify that your device is set to record motion and your doorbell works correctly.
Testing Wi-Fi and Internet Connection
Arlo Doorbell requires a stable internet connection to process and upload videos to the cloud 2. Ensure your Arlo Doorbell is connected to Wi-Fi and does not experience slow internet speed. If your connection is unstable, contact your internet service provider or troubleshoot your router to restore adequate connection speeds.
Verifying Subscription Plan
In some cases, not having a proper subscription plan can be the root cause. Note that any Arlo camera newer than Pro 2 will require a subscription. If you used a trial subscription, it might have expired, and you need to sign up for a single camera subscription for the doorbell to allow cloud recordings.
Applying Factory Reset
If you have tried the above troubleshooting steps and still encounter issues, you may need to perform a factory reset. Resetting your Arlo Doorbell to its factory settings will erase all current configurations, and you will have to follow the setup process again.
Arlo App Guide
The Arlo App is available for both Android and iOS devices. In this guide, we’ll briefly cover navigating the Arlo app, setting and managing rules, and managing devices and users.
Navigating the Arlo App
When you first open the Arlo app, you’ll be at the Home screen, which displays an overview of your devices and a live feed of their current status. Tapping on a device will show more details and options for that device. The app is divided into several sections, which can be accessed using the bottom navigation bar:
- Home: Displays your devices and their current status
- Devices: Allows you to view and manage all your Arlo devices
- Settings: Access the settings for your account and devices
Setting and Managing Rules
Rules in the Arlo app allow you to automate your device’s actions and notifications based on specific events or conditions. To manage rules:
- Go to Devices tab in the app
- Select the device whose rules you’d like to manage
- Tap on the pencil icon next to the device’s name
- Scroll down to Rules section
Here, you can add, edit, or delete rules. To create a rule, tap the + icon and follow the instructions to set conditions and actions for the rule.
Managing Devices and Users
To manage connected Arlo devices:
- Go to Devices tab in the app
- Select the device you want to manage
- Tap on the pencil icon next to the device’s name
- Make any desired changes to the settings, rules, or modes of the device
To manage users for your Arlo account:
- Go to Settings tab in the app
- Select Grant Access under the Account settings
- Here, you can invite new users, manage permissions, or revoke access to your devices for existing users
Remember, to troubleshoot issues like the Arlo doorbell not recording, ensure you have an active Arlo Secure subscription plan. If the issue persists, try checking Wi-Fi connection and temperature conditions for the device.
Arlo Secure and Subscription Plans
Arlo doorbells require a subscription to Arlo Secure for capturing and storing recordings. In this section, we will discuss the Arlo Secure features and how to choose the right plan.
Arlo Secure Features
Arlo Secure provides a range of features to enhance your Arlo doorbell experience:
- Cloud Storage: Recordings from your Arlo doorbell are saved in the cloud for easy access and playback.
- Advanced Detection: Arlo Secure can differentiate between people, vehicles, animals, and other types of motion, allowing you to customize your alerts and recordings.
- Activity Zones: Specify specific areas within your doorbell’s view for detecting motion and receiving alerts.
- e911 Service: An emergency service that provides help with just a tap, connecting you to emergency dispatchers near your home.
Choosing the Right Plan
When selecting an Arlo Secure subscription plan, consider the number of cameras you have and the specific features you need. Arlo offers various plans to cater to different needs, such as:
- Basic Plan: This free plan supports up to 5 cameras but doesn’t include Arlo Doorbell recordings.
- Arlo Secure Single Camera Plan: Tailored for a single camera or doorbell, this plan includes all Arlo Secure features for one device.
- Arlo Secure Multi-Camera Plan: Designed for users with multiple Arlo devices, this plan covers all your security cameras (up to 20) with Arlo Secure features.
Choose the plan that best fits your requirements. Keep in mind that Arlo doorbell camera not recording issues often result from not having an active Arlo Secure subscription.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn’t my Arlo Doorbell camera recording?
There could be several reasons for your Arlo doorbell camera not recording. It might be due to an issue with your Wi-Fi connection, server status, or the doorbell’s temperature. It’s also possible that you haven’t subscribed to an Arlo Secure subscription plan, which is required for recording.
How can I get my Arlo doorbell to detect motion?
To enable motion detection for the Arlo doorbell, access the Arlo app, navigate to the settings for the specific device, and enable motion detection. You can also adjust the sensitivity level to get optimal results for your specific environment.
Is a subscription required for Arlo doorbell recordings?
Yes, an Arlo Secure subscription plan is required for cloud recordings using Arlo doorbell devices. Newer Arlo camera models, like Arlo Video Doorbell, need a subscription to maintain access to cloud recording features.
How to record motion with Arlo Video Doorbell?
Ensure your device is connected to the internet and has an active Arlo Secure subscription plan. Then, access the Arlo app, navigate to settings, and enable motion detection for your device. If the problem persists, verify your Wi-Fi connection and subscription status.
Can Arlo doorbell record to base station?
No, Arlo doorbells, including the Arlo Video Doorbell, don’t currently support local storage and can’t record directly to a base station. Instead, recordings are saved to the cloud, which requires an Arlo Secure subscription plan.
Why is Arlo camera detecting motion but not recording?
If your Arlo camera detects motion but doesn’t record, it might be related to your subscription status. Ensure you have an active Arlo Secure subscription for your camera. If the issue persists, check your device settings, Wi-Fi connection, and server status.