What to Do If Your Doorbird Has Water Damage
Doorbird video doorbells are designed to be weather-resistant, but no electronic device is completely immune to water damage, especially after exposure to driving rain, high humidity, or incorrect installation. If you suspect water has breached your device, acting quickly can sometimes prevent permanent failure. This guide covers the signs of water damage and the steps to take to mitigate the problem.
From immediate first aid to long-term prevention, we'll help you protect your investment from the elements.
Recognising the Signs of Water Damage
It's important to identify the problem as early as possible. Look out for these symptoms, particularly after a period of bad weather:
- The device is completely dead and will not power on.
- The video feed is foggy, blurry, or has a distorted, watery look.
- You can see visible condensation or moisture trapped inside the lens dome.
- The speaker sounds muffled, crackly, or does not work at all.
- The doorbell button is unresponsive or behaves erratically.
- The device reboots intermittently.
Immediate First Aid for a Water-Damaged Doorbird
If you notice any of the signs above, you must act immediately to prevent a short circuit, which can cause irreversible damage.
Step 1: Disconnect the Power Immediately
This is the most critical step. Do not press the button or try to operate the device.
- Go to your home's circuit breaker panel.
- Identify the breaker that supplies power to your Doorbird.
- Switch it to the OFF position.
- If you are unsure which breaker it is, you can turn off the main breaker, but this will cut power to your entire home.
Step 2: Unmount and Dry the Unit
Once the power is safely disconnected, you can attempt to dry out the device.
- Carefully unmount the Doorbird from the wall according to the installation instructions.
- Bring the unit indoors.
- Gently pat the exterior dry with a soft cloth.
- Place the device in a dry, well-ventilated area. A warm spot, like the top of a refrigerator or in an airing cupboard, is ideal.
- Let it dry for at least 48-72 hours. Be patient. Trying to power it on too early, while moisture is still inside, is likely to cause permanent damage. Using a container of rice or, preferably, silica gel packets can help absorb the moisture more effectively.
- Do NOT use direct heat. Avoid using a hair dryer, oven, or microwave, as excessive heat can warp plastic components and damage the delicate electronics.
Step 3: Inspect and Re-install
After a thorough drying period:
- Inspect the wiring and terminals for any signs of corrosion (a green or white crusty build-up). Clean any corrosion carefully with a small brush.
- Temporarily reconnect the power and test the device's functionality before fully mounting it back on the wall.
- If the device works, you can proceed with re-installation. If it does not, the water has likely caused permanent damage, and you will need to contact Doorbird support.
How to Prevent Future Water Damage
Prevention is the best cure.
- Ensure Proper Installation: The Doorbird must be mounted on a flat, even surface so that the rear gasket can create a proper seal.
- Use Silicone Sealant: For installation on uneven surfaces like stone or rough brick, apply a thin bead of clear, weatherproof silicone sealant around the top and sides of the backplate after it's mounted. Crucially, leave the bottom edge open to allow any moisture that does get behind the unit to drain out.
- Consider a Protective Housing: In very exposed locations, consider installing a small rain shield or housing above the Doorbird to provide extra protection from direct rainfall.
By taking these precautions, you can significantly improve your Doorbird's resilience against the weather.