Charging your Arlo Video Doorbell is simple when you follow the right steps. This guide walks you through every part of the process—from removing the battery to reinserting it—ensuring your doorbell stays powered and ready to protect your home.
Key Takeaways
- Know your model: Arlo offers both battery-powered and wired doorbell options; only battery models require charging.
- Use the correct charger: Always use the USB cable and power adapter provided by Arlo or a certified third-party option to avoid damage.
- Charge fully before reinstalling: A complete charge takes 2–4 hours and ensures maximum battery life and performance.
- Check battery health regularly: Monitor battery status in the Arlo app to prevent unexpected power loss.
- Store the battery properly: If not in use, keep the battery at 50% charge in a cool, dry place to maintain longevity.
- Troubleshoot charging issues: If the doorbell won’t charge, check connections, try a different outlet, or reset the device.
- Maintain your doorbell: Clean the charging contacts and keep the app updated for smooth operation.
How to Charge Arlo Video Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Your Arlo Video Doorbell is a smart, reliable way to monitor who’s at your door—even when you’re not home. But like any battery-powered device, it needs regular charging to stay active and alert. Whether you’re a new Arlo user or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through how to charge your Arlo Video Doorbell safely, efficiently, and without frustration.
In this comprehensive how-to, you’ll learn everything from identifying your doorbell model to removing the battery, charging it correctly, and reinstalling it. We’ll also cover troubleshooting tips, maintenance advice, and best practices to extend your battery life. By the end, you’ll feel confident handling the charging process like a pro—so your doorbell never misses a visitor, package, or unexpected guest.
Understanding Your Arlo Video Doorbell Model
Before you start charging, it’s important to know which Arlo Video Doorbell you have. Arlo offers several models, and not all of them require charging in the same way. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Visual guide about How to Charge Arlo Video Doorbell
Image source: downloads.arlo.com
- Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (Wire-Free): This is a battery-powered model that needs regular charging. It’s completely wire-free, making installation easy but requiring you to remove the battery to charge it.
- Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (Wired): This version connects to your existing doorbell wiring and does not require battery charging. Power is supplied directly through the wires.
- Arlo Video Doorbell (Original): This older model is also battery-powered and requires manual charging. It’s similar to the Essential Wire-Free version but may have slightly different battery access.
If you’re unsure which model you have, check the back of the device or look in the Arlo app under “My Devices.” The app will show whether your doorbell is wired or wire-free. Only wire-free models need charging—so if yours is wired, you can skip the charging steps and focus on maintenance instead.
What You’ll Need to Charge Your Arlo Video Doorbell
Charging your Arlo Video Doorbell is straightforward, but you’ll need a few things to do it right:
- Arlo rechargeable battery: This is the small, rectangular battery that powers your doorbell. It’s usually included with your device.
- USB charging cable: Arlo provides a micro-USB or USB-C cable (depending on the model) in the box. Use this or a high-quality replacement.
- Power adapter: The wall charger that came with your Arlo doorbell. You can also use a phone charger, but make sure it’s 5V/1A or higher for safe charging.
- Soft cloth or microfiber towel: For cleaning the battery and charging contacts.
- Arlo app (on smartphone or tablet): To monitor battery level and receive notifications.
Pro tip: Always use the original Arlo charging accessories or certified replacements. Cheap, uncertified chargers can damage the battery or cause overheating. Stick with trusted brands to keep your device safe.
Step 1: Check the Battery Level in the Arlo App
Before you remove the battery, check how much charge is left. This helps you decide whether a quick top-up is enough or if a full charge is needed.
How to Check Battery Status
- Open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet.
- Tap on your doorbell from the device list.
- Look for the battery icon in the top-right corner of the live view screen.
- The app will show a percentage (e.g., “Battery: 35%”).
If the battery is below 20%, it’s time to charge. Arlo will also send you a low-battery notification, so keep notifications enabled. Charging before the battery dies completely helps maintain its lifespan.
Step 2: Safely Remove the Battery from the Doorbell
Now that you know the battery needs charging, it’s time to remove it. This step requires a little care to avoid damaging the device.
How to Remove the Battery
- Turn off the doorbell: In the Arlo app, go to your doorbell settings and select “Turn Off Device.” This prevents accidental triggers while handling the battery.
- Locate the battery release button: On the back of the doorbell, near the bottom, you’ll find a small button or latch.
- Press and hold the release button: While holding it, gently pull the battery compartment outward. The battery will slide out smoothly.
- Remove the battery: Carefully take the battery out and place it on a clean, dry surface.
Important: Don’t force the battery out. If it feels stuck, double-check that the release button is fully pressed. Forcing it can damage the internal components.
Step 3: Clean the Battery and Charging Contacts
Before charging, take a moment to clean the battery and the doorbell’s charging contacts. Dust, dirt, or moisture can interfere with charging and reduce efficiency.
How to Clean the Components
- Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the metal contacts on the battery. These are the small gold or silver strips on the side.
- Clean the corresponding contacts inside the doorbell compartment. Be gentle—don’t use water or cleaning sprays.
- If there’s stubborn grime, lightly dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher), wring it out well, and wipe the contacts. Let them dry completely before reinserting.
Cleaning ensures a strong connection and faster, more reliable charging. Do this every few charges to keep your doorbell in top shape.
Step 4: Charge the Battery Using the Correct Method
Now it’s time to charge the battery. Follow these steps to do it safely and effectively.
How to Charge the Battery
- Connect the USB cable: Plug the micro-USB or USB-C end into the battery’s charging port. The port is usually on the side of the battery.
- Plug into a power source: Connect the other end of the cable to the wall adapter, then plug it into a standard outlet. You can also use a computer USB port, but wall charging is faster.
- Check the charging indicator: Most Arlo batteries have a small LED light. It will turn red or orange when charging and green when fully charged.
- Wait for a full charge: This usually takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the battery level and charger strength.
Tip: Charge the battery in a cool, dry place. Avoid charging in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as high temperatures can damage the battery.
How Long Does It Take to Charge?
- From 0% to 100%: Approximately 3–4 hours with the original charger.
- Quick top-up (20% to 80%): About 1.5–2 hours.
- Using a fast charger: Some third-party chargers may charge faster, but avoid anything over 2A unless specified by Arlo.
Never leave the battery charging overnight unattended. While modern lithium-ion batteries have safety features, it’s best to unplug once fully charged.
Step 5: Reinsert the Battery and Reactivate the Doorbell
Once the battery is fully charged, it’s time to put it back and get your doorbell working again.
How to Reinstall the Battery
- Align the battery: Make sure the contacts on the battery match the ones inside the doorbell compartment.
- Slide it in gently: Push the battery into the slot until it clicks into place. Don’t force it—if it doesn’t fit, double-check the orientation.
- Close the compartment: Make sure the battery is securely seated and the compartment is flush with the doorbell body.
- Turn the device back on: Open the Arlo app, go to your doorbell settings, and select “Turn On Device.”
After reinserting, wait a minute or two for the doorbell to reconnect to your Wi-Fi network. You’ll see a solid blue light when it’s online and ready.
Step 6: Confirm Charging Success in the Arlo App
To make sure everything worked, check the battery level in the app again.
How to Verify the Charge
- Open the Arlo app.
- Tap on your doorbell.
- Look at the battery percentage. It should now show 100% or close to it.
- Test the doorbell by pressing the button or triggering motion detection.
If the battery shows a full charge and the doorbell responds normally, you’re all set! If not, see the troubleshooting section below.
How Often Should You Charge Your Arlo Video Doorbell?
Battery life depends on usage, climate, and settings. Here’s what to expect:
- Normal use (5–10 motion events per day): Battery lasts 3–6 months.
- High activity (frequent motion or live views): May need charging every 1–2 months.
- Cold weather: Batteries drain faster in temperatures below 32°F (0°C). Consider checking more often in winter.
To maximize battery life:
- Adjust motion sensitivity in the app to reduce false alerts.
- Limit live viewing time—only check when needed.
- Use the “Sleep Mode” feature when you’re home and don’t need alerts.
Regular charging before the battery dies helps maintain its health. Avoid letting it drop to 0% frequently.
Troubleshooting Common Charging Issues
Sometimes, your Arlo Video Doorbell won’t charge as expected. Here’s how to fix the most common problems.
Battery Won’t Charge
- Check the cable and adapter: Try a different USB cable or power source. Faulty accessories are a common cause.
- Inspect the charging port: Look for dirt or damage. Clean gently with a dry toothbrush or compressed air.
- Test the battery: If the LED doesn’t light up at all, the battery may be dead or defective. Contact Arlo support.
Battery Drains Too Fast
- Review motion settings: High sensitivity or frequent recordings drain the battery. Lower the sensitivity or set activity zones.
- Check Wi-Fi signal: A weak connection forces the doorbell to work harder. Move your router or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Update the app and firmware: Outdated software can cause inefficiencies. Go to the app settings and check for updates.
Doorbell Won’t Turn On After Charging
- Reinsert the battery: Make sure it’s properly seated and the contacts are clean.
- Reset the device: Press and hold the reset button (usually on the back) for 10 seconds. Then re-pair it in the app.
- Check for damage: If the doorbell was dropped or exposed to moisture, internal damage may have occurred. Contact Arlo support.
Charging Light Doesn’t Turn Green
- Wait longer: Sometimes the light takes time to update. Wait up to 4 hours.
- Try a different outlet: The current outlet may not be providing enough power.
- Test with another charger: Borrow a friend’s Arlo charger to see if the issue is with your equipment.
If none of these fixes work, visit the Arlo support page or contact customer service. They can help diagnose hardware issues or offer a replacement under warranty.
Tips to Extend Battery Life
Want to charge less often? Follow these expert tips to get the most out of your Arlo Video Doorbell battery.
- Use motion zones: Set specific areas for motion detection (like your front walk) and ignore others (like a busy street).
- Enable “Quiet Hours”: Schedule times when motion alerts are silenced, reducing unnecessary recordings.
- Lower video quality: In the app, reduce resolution from “High” to “Standard” to save battery.
- Turn off LED lights: The status light uses power. Disable it in settings if you don’t need it.
- Keep the app updated: Arlo regularly releases updates that improve battery efficiency.
Small changes can make a big difference. With smart settings, you might only need to charge every 4–6 months.
When to Replace the Battery
Even the best batteries wear out over time. Here’s how to know when it’s time for a replacement:
- Battery holds less than 50% of its original charge.
- Charging takes much longer than usual.
- The doorbell shuts off randomly, even with a full charge.
- The battery swells or feels warm during charging.
Arlo batteries are designed to last 2–3 years with normal use. When it’s time to replace, order a genuine Arlo battery from the official website or authorized retailers. Avoid cheap knockoffs—they can damage your doorbell.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Doorbell Powered and Protected
Charging your Arlo Video Doorbell doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right tools, a little care, and these step-by-step instructions, you can keep your doorbell running smoothly all year long. Remember to check the battery regularly, clean the contacts, and use only approved chargers.
By following this guide, you’ll not only extend the life of your battery but also ensure your home stays secure. Whether you’re watching for packages, greeting guests, or keeping an eye on things while you’re away, a fully charged Arlo Video Doorbell gives you peace of mind.
So next time you see that low-battery alert, don’t panic—just grab your charger, follow these steps, and get back to smart home security in no time.