Is Your Ring Battery Not Charging?
A Ring device with a dead battery is no security at all. Whether you have a battery-powered doorbell or a hardwired camera that is failing to charge, it is a critical issue that needs to be solved. If you have plugged in your Ring battery but the percentage is not increasing, do not assume the battery is dead.
The problem is often related to the power source, the cable, or even the weather. This guide will help you diagnose and fix the most common Ring battery charging issues.
Symptoms of a Charging Problem
You know you have a charging issue if you see any of the following signs:
- No Charging Lights: When you plug the micro-USB cable into the battery, the red and green charging indicator lights do not turn on.
- Battery Level Not Increasing: The battery is plugged in, but the percentage in the Ring app does not go up after several hours.
- Hardwired But Draining: Your device is hardwired, but the app shows the battery level is still decreasing.
- Extremely Slow Charging: The battery takes much longer than the typical 6-8 hours to reach a full charge.
- Device Dies While Plugged In: The device powers off due to low battery even while it is connected to a charger.
How to Troubleshoot Ring Charging Issues
Let's break down the problem step-by-step to find the root cause.
1. For Removable Batteries (Quick Release Battery Pack)
This applies to devices like the Ring Video Doorbell 2/3/4, Stick Up Cam Battery, and Spotlight Cam Battery.
Check Your Power Source and Cable
This is the most common point of failure.
- The Power Adapter: Are you plugging the USB cable into a proper wall adapter? Do not use a USB port on a computer or a low-power phone charger. You need a wall adapter with an output of at least 2.1 amps (often written as 2.1A or 10W). Using a weaker adapter will result in extremely slow or no charging.
- The Micro-USB Cable: The bright orange cable that came with your Ring device is ideal, but any high-quality micro-USB cable should work. Try a different cable. Cables can get damaged internally without any visible signs of wear.
- The Wall Socket: Make sure the socket you are using is actually working. Plug another device, like a lamp, into it to confirm.
Check the Battery and Connections
- Secure Connection: Ensure the micro-USB cable is fully and securely inserted into the charging port on the battery. A loose connection will prevent charging.
- Clean the Contacts: Check the metal charging contacts on the battery and inside the Ring device itself. If they are dirty or corroded, gently clean them with a dry cloth.
2. For Hardwired Devices (e.g., Video Doorbell Pro, Hardwired Doorbells)
Many people assume 'hardwired' means the device runs directly from mains power. This is not quite right. A hardwired Ring doorbell uses the wiring to provide a trickle charge to its internal battery.
Understand Trickle Charging
The hardwiring is designed to top up the battery, compensating for the power used during normal daily operation (motion events, button presses). It is not a fast charger.
- High Activity: If you have a very high number of motion events or you are frequently using Live View, your device can easily use more power than the trickle charge can supply. This will cause the battery to drain despite being hardwired.
- Solution: Adjust your motion settings. Reduce the sensitivity, refine your motion zones, and decrease the recording frequency to lower power consumption.
- Cold Weather: This is a critical factor. In temperatures below 0°C (32°F), the lithium-ion battery chemistry is affected, and the battery will lose its ability to hold a charge. The device may report that it is hardwired, but the battery will not charge until the temperature rises. This is a safety feature of the battery, not a fault.
- Insufficient Power from Transformer: Your doorbell transformer might not be powerful enough. Ring doorbells require a transformer rated for at least 16V AC at 30VA. If your existing transformer is old or underpowered, it will not be able to charge the device effectively.
By correctly identifying your device type and following these targeted troubleshooting steps, you can resolve your charging problems and ensure your Ring device stays powered on and ready to protect your home.