How to Fix a Blurry Video Feed from Your Skybell Doorbell
A blurry video from your Skybell can be caused by several factors, ranging from simple fixes like cleaning the lens to more complex issues like power supply. This guide will help you identify the cause of your out-of-focus image and restore its clarity.
## Step 1: Thoroughly Clean the Lens Cover
This is the most common and easily solved reason for a blurry picture. Over time, the plastic dome covering the camera lens accumulates dust, dirt, pollen, and water spots from rain.
- Get the Right Tool: You will need a soft, lint-free microfibre cloth. This is essential to avoid scratching the plastic.
- The Cleaning Process:
- First, gently brush away any loose dust or cobwebs.
- Using the dry microfibre cloth, wipe the dome in a gentle, circular motion.
- For stubborn smudges or dirt, you can slightly dampen the cloth with clean water. Important: Never spray water or any cleaning solution directly onto the Skybell.
- What to Avoid: Do not use paper towels, tissues, or abrasive cloths. Also, avoid chemical cleaners like window cleaner, as they can damage the plastic dome and its coatings, making the problem worse in the long run.
## Step 2: Check for and Remove the Protective Film
It's surprisingly common for the factory-installed protective plastic film to be left on the device after installation. This thin film is designed to prevent scratches during shipping but will cause a hazy and blurry image if not removed.
- Inspect Closely: Look carefully at the surface of the camera dome.
- Peel it Off: If you see the film, use your fingernail to pick at an edge and peel it off completely. You should immediately notice an improvement in image clarity.
## Step 3: Look for Internal Condensation
Moisture trapped inside the camera dome is a more serious issue that will result in a foggy or blurry image, especially when temperatures change.
- Identify the Problem: Look for visible fog, haze, or water droplets on the inside of the plastic dome.
- The Cause: This indicates that the weather seal on the unit has failed, allowing humid air or water to get inside.
- The Solution: Unfortunately, this is not something that can be easily fixed by the user. If your Skybell is under warranty, you should contact their support for a replacement. Attempting to open the unit will likely void your warranty.
## Step 4: Verify Adequate Power Supply
While it may seem unrelated, an insufficient power supply from your doorbell transformer can affect the performance of the camera's internal image processor, sometimes resulting in a soft or poor-quality image.
- Know the Requirements: Skybell requires a transformer rated for at least 10 VAC at 10 VA.
- Check Your Transformer: Locate your home's doorbell transformer (often near the main electrical panel) and check the specifications printed on it. If it does not meet the minimum requirements, it should be replaced by a qualified electrician. An upgrade can often solve a variety of intermittent and quality-related issues.
By carefully working through these steps, starting with the simplest (cleaning), you can effectively diagnose why your Skybell's video is blurry and take the right actions to get a crystal-clear picture back.