Skybell Not Working? A Complete Troubleshooting Guide
A Skybell video doorbell that has stopped working can be a major inconvenience, leaving a gap in your home security. Whether the button is unresponsive, the LED is dark, or the app can't connect, the problem usually stems from one of three areas: power, Wi-Fi, or the device's software.
This guide provides a complete set of troubleshooting steps to diagnose why your Skybell is not working and help you get it back online.
## Step 1: Diagnose Power Issues
Without adequate power, your Skybell is nothing more than a plastic button. A total lack of response or a dark LED almost always points to a power problem.
- Check Your Circuit Breaker: The first and simplest check. Go to your home's electrical panel and find the circuit breaker that controls your doorbell. Make sure it hasn't been tripped. If it has, flip it off and then on again.
- Inspect the Doorbell Transformer: Skybell doorbells require a specific amount of power from a low-voltage transformer. These transformers can fail over time.
- Location: They are typically located in a cupboard, attic, or near your main electrical panel.
- Testing: If you are comfortable doing so, you can use a multimeter to test the voltage output of the transformer. Check your Skybell model's documentation for the required voltage (e.g., 10-36 VAC). If the voltage is too low or zero, the transformer needs to be replaced. If you are not comfortable with electrical work, please hire a qualified electrician.
- Internal Battery Charge: Your Skybell has a small internal battery that helps it maintain consistent operation. If the power to your doorbell was interrupted, this battery may be completely drained. After restoring power (e.g., flipping a breaker), leave the Skybell alone for up to 30 minutes to allow the internal battery to recharge before attempting to use it.
- Check the Wiring: Look at the wires connected to the back of the Skybell and at the transformer. Ensure they are secure and not corroded.
## Step 2: Troubleshoot Wi-Fi and Network Connectivity
If the Skybell has power (indicated by a lit LED) but is not functioning correctly in the app, the problem is likely your network connection.
- Check the LED Colour: The LED is your best diagnostic tool.
- Flashing Red: Indicates a Wi-Fi connection failure.
- Flashing Orange: Can indicate a power problem, where there's enough power for the light but not enough to operate fully.
- Flashing Red and Green: The device is in Sync Mode.
- Reboot Your Router: Unplug your Wi-Fi router from the power outlet. Wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in. Give it several minutes to fully restart. This resolves a huge number of connectivity issues.
- Put Skybell in Sync Mode: If rebooting the router doesn't work, you may need to force the Skybell to reconnect to your Wi-Fi.
- Press and hold the main button on the front of the Skybell.
- Continue holding it for about 45-60 seconds, until the LED begins to flash rapidly between red and green.
- Release the button. The Skybell is now in Sync Mode.
- Open the Skybell app on your phone and follow the on-screen instructions to re-add the device and connect it to your Wi-Fi network.
- Check Router Proximity and Interference: Is your router far from the door? Brick or stucco walls can block the signal. Ensure your Skybell has a strong Wi-Fi signal.
## Step 3: Address App-Related Problems
Sometimes the Skybell hardware is working fine, but the app on your phone is causing the issue.
- Log Out and Log In: Sign out of your Skybell app account completely, and then sign back in. This can refresh the connection to your device.
- Check for App Updates: Go to the App Store or Google Play Store and ensure you have the latest version of the Skybell app installed.
- Reinstall the App: If all else fails, delete the Skybell app from your phone and reinstall it from the app store.
By methodically working through these power, network, and app-related checks, you can identify the root cause of the problem and get your Skybell back to protecting your home.