Protecting Your Skybell from the Elements
Your Skybell video doorbell is built to live outdoors, but it's not indestructible. Constant exposure to harsh weather conditions—be it torrential rain, freezing cold, or blazing sun—can eventually take its toll and cause performance issues or even complete failure. Understanding how to identify, address, and prevent weather damage is key to ensuring your doorbell has a long and reliable life.
This guide will help you diagnose problems that arise after bad weather and provide actionable tips for protecting your device.
Common Symptoms of Weather Damage
If your Skybell is acting up, compare its behaviour to these common signs of weather-related failure:
- Moisture Inside Lens: You can see condensation, fog, or water droplets behind the camera lens.
- Sun Damage: The outer casing is faded, discoloured, or has become brittle and cracked.
- Water Ingress: The device goes offline or behaves erratically after heavy rainfall.
- Button Failure: The main doorbell button becomes sticky, difficult to press, or completely unresponsive.
- Temperature-Related Shutdowns: Your Skybell stops working when it gets very hot or very cold.
- Corrosion: There are visible signs of rust or green/white corrosion on the mounting contacts or wiring.
How to Troubleshoot and Mitigate Weather Damage
If you suspect the weather has harmed your Skybell, follow these diagnostic steps.
Step 1: Assess for Water Damage
Water is the most common enemy of outdoor electronics.
- Thorough Visual Inspection:
- Carefully examine the device for any of the symptoms listed above, especially moisture behind the lens.
- Check the seams of the casing for any gaps or cracks where water could have entered.
- Check the Wiring:
- Safely turn off the power to your doorbell at the circuit breaker.
- Gently dismount the Skybell from its bracket and inspect the electrical contacts on both the device and the bracket. Look for any signs of corrosion. If you see any, you can try cleaning it off gently with a small, dry brush or some isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab.
- Drying Out the Unit:
- If you suspect water has gotten inside, bring the Skybell indoors and place it in a dry, well-ventilated area for at least 24-48 hours. Do not apply direct heat (like from a hairdryer) as this can damage the components. Sometimes, allowing the unit to dry out completely can restore its functionality.
Step 2: Evaluate for Sun and Heat Damage
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause more than just cosmetic issues.
- Check for Physical Warping:
- Inspect the plastic casing to see if it has warped or changed shape. A warped case can break the weather seals, making the device vulnerable to moisture.
- Monitor Performance in Heat:
- If the device only seems to fail on very hot, sunny days, it may be overheating. Electronics have a maximum operating temperature, and direct sunlight can push the Skybell beyond its limit, causing it to shut down temporarily.
Step 3: Consider Cold Weather Effects
Extreme cold can also cause problems, particularly with power.
- Battery Performance: The internal power components of the Skybell can be less effective in freezing temperatures. This may lead to the device not having enough power to operate correctly, causing it to go offline.
- Condensation from Temperature Swings: When temperatures fluctuate rapidly, condensation can form inside the unit, leading to the same moisture problems seen with rain.
Proactive Steps to Prevent Future Damage
Prevention is always better than a cure.
- Choose a Sheltered Location: If possible, install your Skybell in a location that offers some protection from the elements, such as under a porch roof or eave.
- Use a Weather Shield: Consider purchasing or creating a small cover or shield that can be installed above the Skybell. This can provide significant protection from both direct rain and sun.
- Apply Sealant Carefully: For extra protection against water, you can apply a thin line of clear, outdoor-grade silicone sealant around the edge of the mounting bracket where it meets the wall. Crucially, do not seal the bottom of the bracket, as this can trap moisture. Also, be careful not to block any speaker, microphone, or drainage holes on the device itself.