What to Do When Your Guardzilla Camera Stops Charging
A security camera that won't charge is a major security risk. If your Guardzilla camera's battery is dead, it leaves your property completely unmonitored. Whether the charging light refuses to turn on or the battery level stays stubbornly at zero, it's a problem that needs to be fixed quickly.
This troubleshooting guide is designed to help you identify the root cause of your Guardzilla's charging failure. We'll walk you through a series of simple, logical steps to diagnose the issue, from the most common and easy-to-fix problems to more serious hardware failures.
## Common Causes for Charging Problems
Before you assume the camera is broken, let's look at the simple components that are most often to blame. The issue usually lies in one of these four areas:
- The Power Source: The wall outlet or power strip might be faulty.
- The Charging Equipment: The USB power adapter or the micro USB cable could be damaged or failing.
- The Camera's Charging Port: The physical port on the camera might be dirty, clogged with debris, or damaged.
- The Internal Battery: The rechargeable battery inside the camera may have degraded over time and can no longer hold a charge.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Your Guardzilla
Let's work through the troubleshooting process from the outside in, starting with the easiest things to check.
### Step 1: Isolate the Power Source and Cable
The first step is to rule out the charging accessories. This is the most common point of failure.
- Try a Different Power Outlet: Plug the camera into a different wall socket that you know is working. Sometimes an outlet can be faulty or switched off.
- Use a Different Power Adapter: The small USB power brick that plugs into the wall can fail. Swap it with another one from your phone or tablet, ensuring it has a similar power output (e.g., 5V/1A).
- Use a Different Micro USB Cable: These cables are notoriously prone to wear and tear. The internal wires can break even if the cable looks fine externally. This is a critical step. Grab a cable that you use to successfully charge another device and try it with your Guardzilla camera.
If the camera starts charging with a different cable or adapter, you've found your problem. Simply replace the faulty accessory.
### Step 2: Inspect and Clean the Charging Port
If new accessories don't solve the issue, the problem might be the connection point on the camera itself.
- Visual Inspection: Look closely at the micro USB port on your Guardzilla camera. Use a torch if needed. Check for any obvious signs of damage, like bent pins.
- Clear Out Debris: Dust, lint, and other small debris can get lodged inside the port and prevent the cable from making a proper connection.
- How to Clean it Safely:
- NEVER use metal objects like paperclips or pins, as you can cause a short circuit and permanent damage.
- Use a can of compressed air to blow out any loose debris.
- If something is stuck, use a dry, soft-bristled brush (like a new toothbrush or a small paintbrush) to gently clean the port.
### Step 3: Perform a Hard Reset
Sometimes, a software glitch can cause the camera to stop recognising that it's being charged. A reset can often clear this up.
- Find the Reset Button: The reset button is usually a small, recessed button. You will need a paperclip or a similar tool to press it.
- Follow the Reset Procedure: The exact procedure can vary by model. Typically, you will need to press and hold the reset button for 10-15 seconds while the device is plugged in until the indicator light flashes. Consult your Guardzilla manual for the specific instructions for your device. After the reset, leave the camera plugged in for at least an hour to see if charging begins.
### Step 4: Consider the Battery's Health
If you've followed all the steps above and the camera still refuses to charge, the problem is likely internal. The rechargeable battery inside your Guardzilla has a finite number of charge cycles. After a few years of use, it may simply have reached the end of its operational life and can no longer store energy.
At this stage, the battery is not user-replaceable. If your device is out of warranty, you may need to contact Guardzilla support for potential repair options or consider replacing the unit.