Understanding Doorbird Weather Resistance
Doorbird video doorbells are premium devices designed and engineered in Germany for outdoor use. They are built with high-quality materials to withstand the elements. However, under certain conditions—such as exposure to driving rain, extreme humidity, or improper installation—even these robust devices can experience issues related to moisture ingress.
If your Doorbird begins to malfunction after a period of bad weather, it's a strong sign that its weatherproofing has been compromised. This guide will help you identify the symptoms, troubleshoot the problem, and take steps to enhance your device's protection against the weather.
Symptoms of a Weatherproofing Issue
- Condensation: You can see fog, haze, or water droplets on the inside of the camera lens or the motion sensor window.
- Audio Problems: The microphone or speaker sounds distorted, muffled, or stops working entirely, especially after it has rained.
- Offline After Rain: The device loses its network connection or powers down completely during or immediately after a heavy storm.
- Corrosion: You can see rust or other signs of corrosion on the housing, screws, or electrical connection terminals.
- Unreliable Button: The call button becomes sticky or fails to register a press.
Troubleshooting Weather-Related Problems
If you suspect your Doorbird has been affected by weather, here are the steps you should take.
Step 1: Perform a Thorough Inspection
First, you need to confirm that moisture is the culprit.
- Examine the Lens and Sensors: Look very closely at all the transparent parts of the Doorbird for any internal condensation. This is the most definitive sign of a seal failure.
- Check Audio Performance: Make a test call from the doorbell and listen to the audio on your phone. Also, use the app to speak through the Doorbird's speaker. Note any crackling or muffling.
- Inspect the Housing: Look for any cracks in the casing or gaps between the faceplate and the backbox that could allow water to enter.
Step 2: Address Existing Moisture
If you believe water has already gotten inside the unit, you need to dry it out.
- Power Down the Device: Crucially, go to your circuit breaker and turn off the power to the Doorbird. Mixing electricity and water is dangerous and can cause a short circuit that permanently damages the device.
- Encourage Evaporation: If the moisture is minor, it may evaporate on its own once the weather improves. You can try to accelerate this by gently warming the unit with a hairdryer on its lowest heat setting, held at a safe distance. Do not overheat the device.
- Check Connections: Once you are sure the unit is dry, you can briefly restore power and check if functionality has returned. If it continues to malfunction, internal components may have been damaged.
Step 3: Contact Official Support
If your device has been physically damaged by water, especially if it is still within its warranty period, contact Doorbird's official technical support. They can provide guidance on potential repairs or replacement parts, such as a new front panel, which contains the critical seals.
How to Improve Your Doorbird's Weatherproofing
Prevention is the most effective strategy. Here are several ways to bolster your Doorbird's defences against the elements.
- Install a Rain Hood: This is one of the most effective solutions. Doorbird and third-party companies sell rain hoods or covers that fit over the top of the unit. This provides a physical shield against falling rain and can significantly reduce the amount of water that reaches the device's seams.
- Apply Silicone Sealant: For a 'belt and braces' approach, you can apply a thin, neat bead of clear, outdoor-grade silicone sealant. Apply it around the top and side edges of the Doorbird's backbox where it meets the mounting surface (wall). Important: Leave the bottom edge unsealed. This creates a 'weep hole' that allows any moisture that does get behind the unit to drain out, rather than being trapped inside.
- Ensure Proper Installation: When first installing the unit, make sure the gasket between the front panel and the backbox is seated correctly and is not pinched or twisted. Ensure all screws are tightened to the recommended torque to create a firm, even seal.