Dealing with August Water Damage? Here's What Actually Works
Water damage to your August camera can be a frustrating and expensive problem, especially in the UK's unpredictable weather. This guide will walk you through the most effective steps to identify, repair, and prevent water damage. Whether your camera is a battery-powered August View or a hardwired Doorbell Cam Pro, these solutions are tailored to the unique features of August products. By following this guide, you'll learn how to use brand-specific tools like the Battery health monitor and Device status in the August App, as well as the proper reset procedures for different models.
Quick Fixes to Try First
If your August camera is showing signs of water damage, start with these quick checks that can resolve up to 70% of issues without requiring advanced tools or knowledge. These steps are designed to be completed in under a minute:
- Check the LED indicator: For the August View, a red LED may indicate a short circuit or water damage. For the Doorbell Cam Pro, a continuously blinking LED could signal a power supply issue.
- Verify the power source: For wired models, ensure the transformer voltage at the junction box is between 16-24V AC. For battery-powered models, check the battery level in the August App's Battery health monitor. Replace the battery if it's below 20%.
- Restart the August App: Force-close the app and reopen it. This can resolve temporary glitches that might be causing the device to appear offline.
- Check for physical damage: Inspect the camera housing for cracks or signs of water ingress. If the device has been submerged, it may require professional repair.
- Reconnect the camera in the app: If the camera is still not visible in the August App, remove it from the app and re-add it by following the setup instructions for your specific model.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
If the quick fixes don't resolve the issue, proceed with these detailed steps to diagnose and repair water damage. These steps are specific to August products and leverage the brand's unique features:
Check the August App's Battery Health Monitor
For battery-powered models like the August View, open the August App and navigate to the Battery health monitor. This feature provides real-time data on battery performance and can detect signs of degradation or moisture damage. If the battery is swollen, leaking, or showing unusually low capacity, it may need to be replaced. For wired models, this step is not applicable, but you should still check the transformer voltage as described earlier.
Reset the Camera Using the RESET Button
Both the August View and Doorbell Cam Pro have a RESET button on the back of the unit. For the August View, hold the RESET button for 5 seconds until the LED blinks rapidly. This will restore factory defaults and clear any corrupted data caused by water exposure. For the Doorbell Cam Pro, the same procedure applies, but ensure the transformer voltage is within the 16-24V AC range before proceeding. After resetting, reconfigure the camera in the August App and check the Device status for connectivity.
Use the August App's Device Status Feature
The Device status section in the August App provides detailed information about the camera's health, including signal strength, firmware version, and any error codes. If the camera is offline, check this section for warnings about low signal strength or connectivity issues. If the device is showing a Device health warning, it may need to be professionally repaired.
Check the Transformer Voltage for Wired Models
For the Doorbell Cam Pro, the transformer voltage at the junction box must be between 16-24V AC. If the voltage is outside this range, the camera may not function properly or may be damaged. To check the voltage, use a multimeter and measure the AC voltage at the junction box. If the voltage is incorrect, contact a qualified electrician to adjust it.
Inspect the Camera Housing for Water Damage
For both models, inspect the camera housing for cracks, warping, or signs of water ingress. If the housing is damaged, it may need to be replaced. For the August View, the battery compartment is a common area for water damage. For the Doorbell Cam Pro, the transformer connections and wiring are vulnerable to moisture. If you find any signs of damage, discontinue use and contact August support for further assistance.
Advanced Diagnostics and Professional Help
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to perform more advanced diagnostics or seek professional help. These steps are only recommended if the camera is still not functioning after the quick fixes and step-by-step troubleshooting:
Use the August App's Diagnostic Logs
The August App includes a Diagnostic logs feature that can be used to identify the root cause of the problem. To access this feature, open the August App, navigate to the Device health section, and select View logs. These logs can provide detailed information about the camera's performance, including error codes, firmware updates, and connectivity issues. If the logs indicate a hardware failure, it may be necessary to replace the device.
Contact August Support for Further Assistance
If the camera is still not functioning after all troubleshooting steps, it may be necessary to contact August support for further assistance. Visit the August support website at support.august.com and select the appropriate product for help. Be sure to provide detailed information about the issue, including any error codes, diagnostic logs, and steps you've already taken to resolve the problem.
Understanding the Root Cause of August Water Damage
Water damage to August cameras is often the result of exposure beyond the device's IP rating. The August View and Doorbell Cam Pro are rated for outdoor use, but they are not fully waterproof. Prolonged exposure to heavy rain, flooding, or improper installation can lead to water ingress and damage. In the UK, where rainfall can be unpredictable, it's essential to install the camera in a sheltered location, such as under an eaves or porch. Additionally, using an August-certified weatherproof enclosure can help protect the device from moisture and extend its lifespan.
Prevention and Long-Term Care for August Cameras
Preventing water damage to your August camera is crucial for ensuring its long-term performance. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Install the camera in a sheltered location: Avoid installing the camera in areas exposed to direct rain or flooding. Use an August-certified weatherproof enclosure for added protection.
- Regularly check the Battery health monitor: For battery-powered models, regularly check the Battery health monitor in the August App for signs of degradation or moisture damage. Replace the battery if it's below 20%.
- Inspect the camera housing for cracks or damage: Regularly inspect the camera housing for cracks or signs of water ingress. If the housing is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
- Use anti-fog enclosures in freezing conditions: If the camera is exposed to freezing conditions, use an enclosure with anti-fog features to prevent lens fogging.
- Keep the August App updated: Ensure the August App is updated to the latest version to take advantage of the latest features and bug fixes.
Full disclosure: we built scOS to address exactly this—the frustration of cameras that depend on Wi-Fi to function. scOS uses permanently powered cameras connected via ethernet.
When to Consider Replacement
If your August camera has been damaged beyond repair or is no longer functioning after all troubleshooting steps, it may be time to consider replacement. The typical lifespan for a battery-powered August View is 3-5 years, while the Doorbell Cam Pro can last 5-8 years. If the camera is still under warranty, you may be eligible for a replacement or repair. If not, you can purchase a new camera from the August website or a trusted retailer. In the UK, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 provides a 6-year right to repair for faulty goods, so ensure you keep your purchase receipt and any documentation related to the camera's condition.