How to Troubleshoot Skybell Microphone and Audio Issues
The ability to speak with visitors at your door is a key feature of your Skybell video doorbell. When the microphone or speaker fails, it can be frustrating and limit the functionality of your device. Whether you can't hear your visitors, or they can't hear you, this guide will provide you with the steps to diagnose and resolve common audio problems.
We'll cover everything from simple app permissions and volume settings to network connectivity and hardware resets, helping you get the conversation flowing again.
## Common Skybell Audio Problems and Their Causes
Most microphone and speaker issues can be traced back to a few common sources:
- App Settings: The Skybell app may not have the necessary permissions, or your phone's volume might be turned down.
- Network Connection: A weak or unstable Wi-Fi connection can cause audio to be choppy, delayed, or completely non-functional. Audio requires a stable upload speed from the doorbell.
- Hardware Glitches: The device itself might have a temporary fault that can be fixed with a reboot.
- Audio Feedback: A loud screeching or echo is almost always caused by standing too close to the doorbell while using the app.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Microphone Issues
Let's work through the solutions, starting with the simplest fixes on your smartphone.
### Step 1: Check Your Smartphone and App Settings
First, let's make sure the problem isn't with the device in your hand.
- Check Phone Volume: During a live call on the Skybell app, use the physical volume buttons on your phone to ensure the media volume is turned all the way up.
- Grant Microphone Permissions:
- On iOS: Go to
Settings>Privacy>Microphone. Make sure the toggle next to the Skybell app is green. - On Android: Go to
Settings>Apps>Skybell>Permissions. Ensure that 'Microphone' is listed under the 'Allowed' section.
- On iOS: Go to
- Restart the App: Force close the Skybell app and then reopen it. This can clear temporary software bugs.
### Step 2: Troubleshoot Your Wi-Fi Network
A poor connection is the number one cause of audio that is robotic, delayed, or cuts in and out.
- Check Upload Speed: Your Skybell needs a minimum upload speed (typically at least 2 Mbps) at the location of the doorbell. Run a speed test on your phone while connected to Wi-Fi and standing next to your door.
- Reboot Your Router: Unplug your internet router from power for 60 seconds, then plug it back in. This can resolve many connectivity issues and improve performance.
- Reduce Interference: If your router is far from the door, the signal may be too weak. Walls, especially brick or concrete, can block Wi-Fi signals. Consider moving your router closer to the front of your house.
- Use a Wi-Fi Extender: A device like the Skybell Wi-Fi Chime can also act as a dedicated range extender, significantly improving the signal strength for your doorbell.
### Step 3: Address Audio Feedback and Echo
If you hear a loud screeching or echo, the cause is almost certainly a feedback loop.
- Increase Distance: This happens when your phone's microphone is picking up the sound coming from your Skybell's speaker. To fix it, simply step further away from your front door when you are speaking to a visitor through the app.
### Step 4: Power Cycle Your Skybell
If the issue persists, a hard reboot of the doorbell itself can resolve deeper hardware glitches.
- Turn Off the Power: Locate the circuit breaker in your home's electrical panel that controls your doorbell. Turn it off.
- Wait: Leave the power off for at least two minutes to ensure the device fully powers down.
- Turn It Back On: Switch the breaker back on. The Skybell will now go through its startup sequence. Wait for the button to turn a solid green before testing the audio again.
If you've followed all these troubleshooting steps and your microphone issues are still not resolved, there may be a hardware fault with the device. In this case, you should reach out to Skybell customer support for further assistance.