Ring doorbells have become increasingly popular as a convenient and secure way to monitor your home. However, you may encounter situations where your Ring doorbell’s battery isn’t charging properly, leading to decreased performance or even a non-functioning device.
In the following article, we’ll explore common reasons for charging problems and provide tips on how to fix them.
Table of Contents
Identifying the Charging Issue
In order to pinpoint the cause of your Ring doorbell not charging, you need to examine various aspects of your device and its surrounding conditions. This section discusses key factors to check, including device health and battery level, the impact of weather on charging, and Wi-Fi connection status.
Device Health and Battery Level
To check the device health and battery level of your Ring doorbell, follow these steps:
- Open the Ring app on your smartphone.
- Tap the three lines on the top left of the Dashboard screen.
- Select Devices and choose your Ring doorbell.
- Tap Device Health to see the battery percentage under Battery Level.
If the battery level is low, recharge your doorbell’s battery. Keep in mind that the doorbell starts charging only when the battery capacity drops below 90%.
Weather Impact on Charging
Temperature can directly affect the charging efficiency and battery life of your Ring device. Extremely cold or hot conditions can slow down the charging process, potentially causing battery level issues. If you suspect that weather might be affecting your doorbell’s charging, ensure that your device is installed in a sheltered location with minimal exposure to extreme temperatures.
Wi-Fi Connection Status
A stable Wi-Fi connection plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health of your Ring doorbell, including its charging capabilities. If your doorbell is connected to a weak or unstable Wi-Fi network, it could potentially impact the device’s performance and battery life.
To confirm that your Ring doorbell is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, follow these steps:
- Open the Ring app on your smartphone.
- Tap the three lines on the top left of the Dashboard screen.
- Select Devices and choose your Ring doorbell.
- Tap Device Health and check the Wi-Fi signal strength under Network.
If the signal strength is weak, try moving your Wi-Fi router closer to your Ring doorbell or consider using a Wi-Fi extender for a stronger connection.
Troubleshooting Charging Problems
Checking the Wiring and Transformer
To ensure your Ring doorbell is charging properly, first check the wiring connected to your device. Ensure the screws connecting the power wires to your Ring Doorbell contacts are tight but not overly tightened, as this can cause the mounting plate to flex and weaken the connection to the battery contacts.
Next, inspect the doorbell transformer, which supplies power to the Ring device. Transformers have voltage ratings, and the Ring doorbell requires a specific input voltage for proper operation. Make sure your transformer has an output rating that matches the requirements of your particular Ring doorbell model.
Inspecting the USB Cable and Charger
Another potential issue may lie with the USB cable or charger you are using to charge your Ring doorbell’s battery. Inspect the cable and charging adapter for any signs of damage or wear, and test them with another device to ensure they are working correctly. If necessary, replace them with recommended accessories to ensure optimal charging performance.
Testing the Ring App Settings
To identify any charging issues, you should check the battery charge percentage in the Ring app. Here’s how:
- Tap the three lines on the top left of the Dashboard screen.
- Select Devices.
- Choose the doorbell or camera you want to check.
- Tap Device Health, and look for the percentage under Battery Level.
If the battery level appears low or not increasing while charging, you may need to consider replacing the battery pack, as lithium-ion batteries have a lifespan of 2-3 years under normal conditions.
Evaluating Wi-Fi and Router Connections
Wi-Fi connectivity can also play a role in Ring doorbell charging issues, as poor connections can lead to inaccurate battery readings. To ensure optimal connectivity, follow these steps:
- Reset your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in.
- Reconnect your Ring doorbell to your Wi-Fi network.
- Check that your Wi-Fi connection is stable and provides a suitable signal strength to your doorbell.
By following these steps, you can help ensure accurate battery readings and improve charging performance for your Ring doorbell.
Battery Issues and Replacement
When your Ring doorbell is not charging, battery issues could be the main culprit. Understanding and addressing battery problems can help to ensure your device functions smoothly and stays charged as expected.
Assessing Battery Life and Charge Cycles
To assess the battery life of your Ring doorbell, check the battery level percentage in the Ring app by tapping Devices and selecting your doorbell or camera. In Device Health, you’ll find the battery level under the Battery Level section. Keep in mind that lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in Ring doorbells, typically have a lifespan of 2-3 years under normal use conditions. Charge cycles, or how often you need to charge your battery, will depend on factors like device usage and weather conditions.
Types of Batteries for Ring Doorbells
Your Ring doorbell may use one of the following types of batteries:
| Removable battery | The Ring Video Doorbell 2 has a removable lithium-ion battery that can be charged separately from the unit. This allows you to replace the battery while the doorbell remains mounted. |
| Built-in battery | Some Ring doorbells feature built-in batteries, requiring you to charge the entire unit. These devices often need to be taken down for recharging, which can be inconvenient if your battery runs low frequently. |
Understanding the type of battery your Ring doorbell uses can help you determine the best course of action for charging or replacement.
Replacing the Battery in Your Ring Doorbell
If your Ring doorbell’s battery is not charging, it may be time for a replacement. First, determine whether your device has a removable or built-in battery. For devices with removable batteries, follow these steps:
- Remove the battery from your Ring doorbell by pressing the release tab and sliding the battery out.
- Purchase a replacement lithium-ion battery specifically designed for Ring doorbells.
- Insert the new battery into your doorbell, ensuring it clicks into place securely.
- Check the battery status in the Ring app and ensure the new battery is charging properly.
If your Ring doorbell has a built-in battery, you may need to contact Ring support for assistance with battery replacement or device troubleshooting.
Addressing battery issues and taking the necessary steps to replace or charge your Ring doorbell battery can help to ensure optimal performance and reliability for your home security system.
Advanced Solutions and Support
Hard Resetting the Ring Doorbell
If your Ring doorbell is not charging or functioning properly, you may need to perform a hard reset. First, disconnect the device from the power supply, then press and hold the setup button for 15-20 seconds. Release the button, reconnect the power supply, and wait for the Ring doorbell to reboot. This process might solve any temporary glitches or errors that could hinder the charging process.
Determining a Faulty Device
To identify if your Ring doorbell has a defect or fault, start by examining the device health in the Ring app. Check the battery level, Wi-Fi connection, and power status. If any of these factors are not up to par, your device may be faulty. Additionally, compare your doorbell’s performance with other Ring devices or security cameras you may have on your network. If you notice inconsistencies, there could be an issue with your doorbell.
Seeking Professional Assistance
If you’ve tried all troubleshooting methods and your Ring doorbell still won’t charge, it may be necessary to seek professional help. A licensed electrician can inspect your doorbell’s wiring and connections, particularly if you have a Ring Doorbell Pro that requires a doorbell transformer to function. An electrician can also determine if there are issues with your home’s electrical work, such as a faulty circuit breaker or inadequate power supply.
Warranty and Customer Support
If your device is under warranty, you can contact the Ring customer support team for assistance. They will be able to guide you through troubleshooting steps and can offer a replacement device if required. Keep in mind that the warranty is typically limited to devices that have been used under normal conditions and does not cover issues caused by improper usage or accidents.
In conclusion, it’s essential to explore all available solutions before concluding that your Ring doorbell is defective. Starting with simple troubleshooting steps and escalating to professional help or warranty support can often resolve charging and functionality issues, ensuring your home security system functions as intended.