How to Fix When Your Lorex System Won't Work with Google Home
Integrating your Lorex security cameras with Google Home allows for convenient, hands-free monitoring. With a simple voice command, you can stream your camera's live feed to a Chromecast-enabled TV or a Google Nest Hub. However, when this integration fails to work, it can be a source of frustration. This guide will help you troubleshoot the common problems that prevent Lorex and Google Home from working together seamlessly.
Before You Start: Check Compatibility
This is the most crucial first step. Not all Lorex products are designed to work with Google Home. Generally, newer Wi-Fi cameras and devices managed through the Lorex Home app are compatible. Older systems, especially those that use the Lorex Cloud or FLIR Secure apps, and many DVR/NVR systems, may not support this feature.
- Action: Check the product page or user manual for your specific Lorex camera model on the official Lorex website. Confirm that it lists "Google Assistant" or "Google Home" compatibility. If it's not compatible, unfortunately, no amount of troubleshooting will make it work.
Step 1: Link Your Lorex and Google Accounts Correctly
The connection is made by linking your Lorex account to your Google account through a "Google Action".
- Open the Google Home app on your smartphone.
- Tap the "+" icon in the top-left corner.
- Select "Set up device".
- Choose "Works with Google".
- Tap the search icon and type "Lorex". Select the correct Lorex action (it will likely be named for the app you use, e.g., Lorex Home).
- You will be redirected to a Lorex login page. Carefully enter the username and password for your Lorex account. A simple typo here is a common point of failure.
- Once authorised, your accounts will be linked.
Step 2: What to Do If Cameras Don't Appear
After linking, Google Home should automatically discover your compatible cameras. If it doesn't, try these steps:
- Force a Sync: Say the voice command, "Hey Google, sync my devices." This requests that Google Assistant refresh its connection with all linked smart home services.
- Assign to a Room: Make sure your Lorex cameras have been assigned to a room within the Google Home app (e.g., "Living Room" or "Outside").
- Check Camera Sharing: In some cases, cameras that are shared with you (rather than you being the primary owner) may not appear in Google Home.
- Unlink and Relink: If they still don't show up, the link may have been corrupted. Go back to the "Works with Google" section, find Lorex, and select "Unlink account". Then, go through the linking process in Step 1 again.
Step 3: Troubleshoot Failing Voice Commands
If your cameras are visible in the app but voice commands like, "Hey Google, show the driveway camera on the living room TV," don't work, here are the likely culprits:
- Camera Naming: Your camera names need to be simple and easy for Google to understand. Name them in the Lorex app with clear location-based names like "Porch," "Driveway," or "Back Garden." Avoid complex names or names that sound like other devices or commands. After renaming, sync your devices again.
- Check Privacy Mode: In the Lorex app, ensure that "Privacy Mode" is turned OFF for the camera you wish to view. When this mode is on, it disables video streaming for privacy, which will block Google Home from accessing the feed.
- Network Connection: A stable Wi-Fi connection is essential for both your Lorex camera and your streaming device (Chromecast or Nest Hub). A weak signal on either end can cause the stream to time out or fail to load.
Step 4: Ensure Firmware is Up to Date
Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix bugs and improve compatibility.
- Open your Lorex app.
- Navigate to the Device Settings for your camera.
- Look for an option like "Firmware" or "Device Info".
- If an update is available, follow the instructions to install it. This can often resolve stubborn integration issues.
By systematically checking compatibility, ensuring a proper account link, and optimising your device settings, you can solve the most common issues preventing your Lorex cameras from working with Google Home.