Your Somfy Camera Isn’t Recording? Let’s Fix It
If your Somfy camera is failing to save footage during motion events or scheduled recordings, it’s likely due to a connectivity issue, firmware update, or misconfigured settings. The most common causes include weak 2.4GHz WiFi signals, outdated firmware, or incorrect recording mode settings. The good news is, most issues can be resolved by following a few targeted steps in the Somfy Protect app or by performing a model-specific reset. Let’s get started.
Quick Fixes to Try First
These are 30-second checks that address the most common causes of recording failures:
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Check the LED status: For Somfy Indoor Camera models, a solid green light indicates normal operation. A red or blinking light may signal a firmware update or low battery (if applicable). If the light is off, ensure the camera is properly connected to the hardwired power supply.
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Restart the Somfy Protect app: Close the app completely and reopen it. This can resolve temporary glitches that prevent the app from communicating with the camera.
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Verify app login: Ensure you’re logged into the correct account in the Somfy Protect app. If you’ve recently changed passwords or added a new device, re-authenticate to avoid access issues.
Check Your Camera’s Wi-Fi Band Settings
Somfy devices rely on 2.4GHz WiFi (802.11b/g/n) for stable connectivity. If your router supports 5GHz bands, ensure the camera is connected to the 2.4GHz network only. To confirm:
For All Models
- Open the Somfy Protect app.
- Tap the Device Health icon for your camera.
- Look for the Network diagnostics section. If it shows a 5GHz connection, manually switch to 2.4GHz in your router’s settings.
For Somfy One+
If your Somfy One+ is connected to Bluetooth instead of WiFi, disable Bluetooth in the app settings and reconnect to 2.4GHz WiFi.
Update Your Camera’s Firmware
Outdated firmware can cause recording failures, especially if the camera is unable to communicate with the cloud storage or local storage (if applicable). To update:
For All Models
- Open the Somfy Protect app.
- Tap the Menu icon (three lines) and select Device Settings.
- Look for a Firmware Update option. If available, follow the on-screen instructions to install the update. Ensure the camera remains connected to 2.4GHz WiFi during the process.
For Somfy Home Alarm Advanced
If your Somfy Home Alarm Advanced hub shows a firmware update prompt, complete the update through the Settings > Firmware menu. This ensures compatibility with all connected devices, including cameras and IntelliTAG sensors.
Reset Your Camera or Alarm System
If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, a factory reset may be necessary. The process varies by model:
For Somfy Indoor Camera
- Locate the reset button on the back of the camera.
- Press and hold it for 10–15 seconds until the LED flashes rapidly.
- Re-pair the camera via the Somfy Protect app by selecting Add Device > Indoor Camera.
For Somfy One+
- Disconnect the power cable from the Somfy One+.
- Press and hold the SETUP button for 30 seconds until the LED flashes.
- Reconnect the power and re-pair the device in the app.
For Somfy Home Alarm Advanced
- Open the Somfy Protect app.
- Navigate to Link Advanced hub > Settings > Factory Reset.
- Confirm the reset and re-pair all connected devices, including cameras and IntelliTAG sensors.
Advanced Diagnostics and Support
If your camera still isn’t recording after a reset, use the Device diagnostics feature in the Somfy Protect app to gather logs. These can be shared with Somfy support for further analysis. If the app shows a hardware fault or persistent connectivity error, contact Somfy UK support directly at https://www.somfy.co.uk/support/contact-with-somfy. For Somfy Home Alarm Advanced users, check the Alarm system check section for any proprietary radio protocol errors.
Understanding the Root Causes
Recording failures often stem from weak WiFi signals, especially in older UK homes with solid brick walls or foam-backed insulation. These materials can reduce 2.4GHz signal strength by up to 25dB, making it difficult for cameras to maintain a stable connection. Additionally, Somfy Home Alarm Advanced models using GSM via internal eSIM may experience issues if the cellular signal is weak. Ensure your camera is placed in a location with minimal obstructions and avoid placing it near metallic objects or microwave ovens that can interfere with WiFi.
Prevention and Long-Term Care
To avoid future recording issues, follow these best practices:
- Monitor signal strength regularly in the Device Health section of the Somfy Protect app.
- Update firmware as soon as updates become available.
- Avoid 5GHz WiFi bands for all Somfy devices.
- Check battery levels for battery-powered models (if applicable) and replace batteries every 2–3 years.
Full disclosure: we built scOS to address exactly this—the frustration of cameras that depend on WiFi to function. scOS uses permanently powered cameras connected via ethernet, eliminating the risk of signal degradation from building materials or interference.
When to Consider Replacement
Most Somfy Indoor Cameras and Somfy One+ models last 5–8 years with proper care. If your camera is older than 5 years and recording issues persist despite all troubleshooting steps, it may be time to replace the device. Somfy Home Alarm Advanced hubs typically last 6–7 years, but IntelliTAG sensors may need replacement sooner. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, UK consumers have up to 6 years to claim faulty goods. If your camera is under warranty, contact Somfy support for a replacement or repair.