Skybell Not Charging? Your Complete Power Troubleshooting Guide
A Skybell video doorbell that is constantly offline or reporting a low battery is a frustrating problem. Since Skybell devices are hardwired to your home's power, charging issues almost always point to a problem with the power source, not the device itself.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps to diagnose and fix the power problems that are preventing your Skybell from charging, helping you restore a stable and reliable connection.
Understanding How Your Skybell Gets Power
Your Skybell doesn't plug into a standard wall outlet. Instead, it draws a small but continuous amount of power from your home's doorbell wiring. This power comes from a small transformer that converts your home's standard mains voltage into a low voltage suitable for doorbells. If this power supply is insufficient or interrupted, your Skybell's internal battery will drain, and the device will go offline.
How to Troubleshoot and Fix Charging Issues
Let's systematically track down the source of your power problem. Important Safety Note: Before inspecting any wiring, you must turn off the power to your doorbell system at your home's main circuit breaker panel.
1. Check Your Doorbell Transformer
An underpowered transformer is the number one cause of charging problems.
- Locate Your Transformer: It's typically a small box located in your attic, basement, utility cupboard, or sometimes near your main electrical panel.
- Check the Voltage Rating: The voltage is usually printed on the transformer itself. Look for a rating like '16V 10VA' or '24V 20VA'. Skybell devices require a transformer with a minimum of 10 volts AC. Many older homes have transformers with a lower voltage that are not sufficient for smart doorbells.
- When to Replace: If your transformer is rated for less than 10V AC, or if it is very old, hot to the touch, or buzzing loudly, it likely needs to be replaced. This task is best handled by a qualified electrician.
2. Inspect the Wiring
Loose, frayed, or corroded wires can interrupt the flow of power to your Skybell.
- At the Skybell: With the power off, gently remove the Skybell from its mounting plate. Check that the two wires are securely screwed into the terminals on the backplate and that the copper is not corroded or broken.
- At the Chime Box: Remove the cover from your indoor doorbell chime. Inspect the wiring here as well, ensuring all connections are tight and clean.
- At the Transformer: Finally, check the low-voltage wires connected to the transformer. Ensure they are securely fastened.
3. Bypass Your Internal Chime (For Testing)
Sometimes, an incompatibility with an old mechanical or digital chime can interfere with the power delivery. You can temporarily bypass the chime to rule it out.
- How to Bypass: With the power off, locate the two wires at your chime box labelled 'Front' and 'Trans' (for transformer). Disconnect these two wires from the chime and twist them together securely with a wire nut. This creates a direct circuit from the transformer to the doorbell.
- Test the Result: Turn the power back on. If your Skybell now powers up and charges consistently, it indicates that your chime is the problem and may need to be replaced or bypassed permanently.
4. The Internal Battery
The Skybell has a small internal battery to keep it running during brief power fluctuations. However, it relies on the transformer for charging. If the battery has failed, it may not hold a charge even with proper power. If you've confirmed your transformer and wiring are good, but the device still won't stay powered on, the Skybell unit itself may be faulty and you should contact customer support.