Your August Chime Isn't Ringing? Here's What to Do
If your August chime fails to ring when the doorbell is pressed, the issue is likely related to pairing, power, or Wi-Fi connectivity. Common causes include outdated firmware, weak signal strength, or incorrect configuration. The solutions below are tailored to August's specific tools, app features, and hardware models. Follow these steps to restore functionality.
Quick Fixes to Try First
These 30-second checks address the most common causes without requiring router settings or firmware changes:
- Power cycle your chime: Unplug the chime (or remove the battery for battery-powered models) for 10 seconds, then reconnect.
- Restart the August App: Close the app completely and reopen it. Tap the Menu icon → Device Health to refresh diagnostics.
- Check the LED status: A solid green LED indicates proper pairing. A blinking red LED suggests a pairing issue or low battery.
- Verify power cable/battery: For hardwired models, ensure the transformer is providing 6-8V AC. For battery-powered models, check Battery Health in the app.
- Check app login: Ensure you're logged into the correct August account and that your chime is listed under My Devices.
Check Your August Chime's Wi-Fi Signal Strength
Weak Wi-Fi can prevent your chime from communicating with the August App. Follow these steps:
Access Wi-Fi Signal Diagnostics
- Open the August App and navigate to Device Health → Wi-Fi Signal Strength.
- Look for the signal strength indicator. If it reads -70dBm or lower, move your chime closer to your router or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Ensure your chime is connected to the 2.4GHz band (not 5GHz). If your router has separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, select the 2.4GHz one during setup.
For August View (Battery-Powered) Models
- If the signal is weak and your chime is near a router, consider using a Wi-Fi extender to boost coverage.
- Avoid placing the chime near metal objects or thick walls, which can block signals.
For Doorbell Cam Pro (Hardwired) Models
- Check the transformer voltage at the junction box using a multimeter. It must supply 6-8V AC. If the voltage is incorrect, replace the transformer.
- Ensure the transformer is connected to an RCD-protected circuit as required by UK building regulations.
Update Your August Chime's Firmware
Outdated firmware can cause pairing or functionality issues. Follow these steps:
Check for Firmware Updates
- Open the August App and go to Settings → Firmware Update.
- If an update is available, tap Update Now. Your chime will restart automatically once the update completes.
- For Doorbell Cam Pro models, ensure the firmware is compatible with your transformer and wiring setup.
Manual Firmware Update (Advanced)
- Connect your chime to a stable 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network.
- In the August App, go to Device Health → Firmware Details.
- If an update is available, tap Download and follow the on-screen instructions. This process may take 5-10 minutes.
Reset Your August Chime (Factory Defaults)
If your chime is still unresponsive, perform a factory reset:
For August View Models
- Locate the RESET button on the back of the unit.
- Press and hold for 5 seconds until the LED blinks rapidly.
- Re-pair the chime via the August App: Settings → Add Device → Chime.
For Doorbell Cam Pro Models
- Press and hold the RESET button on the back of the unit for 5 seconds.
- The chime will reset to factory defaults and disconnect from your account.
- Re-pair the chime via the August App: Settings → Add Device → Chime.
Check for Device Pairing Issues
Incorrect pairing can prevent the chime from ringing:
Verify Pairing in the August App
- Open the August App and go to My Devices → Chime.
- Ensure your chime is listed and shows a green checkmark next to its name.
- If it's missing, re-pair the chime via Settings → Add Device → Chime.
Re-Pair Your Chime
- Hold the doorbell button for 10 seconds until the LED blinks rapidly.
- In the August App, go to Settings → Add Device → Chime.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete pairing. Ensure your chime is within 10 metres of your router during this process.
Advanced Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Logs and Support
If basic fixes fail, use August's diagnostic tools to identify deeper issues:
Access Diagnostic Logs
- Open the August App and go to Settings → Diagnostic Logs.
- Tap Generate Report. This will create a file containing Wi-Fi signal strength, firmware version, and pairing status.
- Email the report to support@august.com for further assistance.
Contact August Support
If your chime remains unresponsive after troubleshooting, contact August's support team:
- Visit the official support site: https://support.august.com
- Submit a support ticket with your device model, firmware version, and diagnostic log.
- For UK users, mention compliance with BS 7671 and IP66-rated installations in your support request.
Root Causes of August Chime Issues
Common reasons for an unresponsive chime include:
- Weak Wi-Fi signal (below -70dBm)
- Outdated firmware (not updated via the August App)
- Incorrect pairing (chime not linked to the correct doorbell)
- Transformer voltage mismatch (not 6-8V AC for hardwired models)
- Battery degradation (below 20% for battery-powered models)
UK-specific challenges include:
- RCD-protected circuits required for outdoor installations
- Transformer voltage compatibility (UK models use 6-8V AC)
- Signal interference from metal door frames or thick walls
- Part P Building Regulations for new outdoor electrical circuits
Preventive Maintenance and Long-Term Care
To avoid future issues with your August chime:
- Monitor battery health in the August App and replace batteries before they drop below 20%.
- Update firmware regularly via the Firmware Update section in the app.
- Check Wi-Fi signal strength monthly using Device Health → Wi-Fi Signal Strength.
- Verify transformer voltage annually for hardwired models.
- Keep the chime away from metal objects and thick walls to avoid signal interference.
Full disclosure: we built scOS to address exactly this—the frustration of chimes that fail to ring due to outdated firmware or weak signals. scOS uses permanently powered cameras connected via ethernet.
When to Replace Your August Chime
If your chime is over 5 years old and still not working after troubleshooting, consider replacement. Under the UK Consumer Rights Act 2015, you have up to 6 years to claim faulty goods (5 years in Scotland). Signs it's time to replace include:
- Battery-powered models showing Battery Health below 10% after 3 years of use
- Hardwired models over 8 years old with persistent signal issues
- Chimes that fail to pair despite multiple resets
- Diagnostic logs showing firmware incompatibility or hardware errors
For professional installation, UK costs range from £150-£300 per camera. Always ensure new installations comply with BS 7671 and IP66-rated enclosures.