Troubleshoot low battery issues for Nest cameras and doorbells

Charge the Google Nest Cam (battery) or Nest Doorbell (battery) with the included USB cable when the battery is low.

If your Nest camera or doorbell often has a low battery or isn’t charging when connected to power,perform these troubleshooting steps. Troubleshoot if it does not charge when connected to power.

If your camera or doorbell is installed wirelessly

1. Save battery:Try these tips to save your  battery for your camera or doorbell .
2. Connect to power:Use one of these power sources if you charge the battery often:
   • Power outlet: Connect your camera or doorbell to a power outlet with the included or optional power adapter.
     • Camera power: Your camera runs off the power from the outlet. It won’t need battery power as long as the outlet works.
     • Doorbell power: Your doorbell always uses battery power. The power from the outlet gradually charges your doorbell's battery. You won’t need to manually charge it as often.
   • Doorbell system wires: Connect your doorbell to the doorbell system wires. This uses low-voltage to gradually charge the battery.
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Troubleshoot plugged-in cameras or doorbells

1. Use the included power adapter to plug in your camera or doorbell. A compatible Google power adapter (sold separately) also works. Another option is a Made for Google power adapter (sold separately).
   Other third-party power adapters might send too little or too much power to your device. This can cause battery issues. The power adapter included with the Nest Cam (battery) is not weatherproof and not intended for outdoor use.
2. Check connections:Ensure the camera's power cable or doorbell's indoor power adapter is securely plugged into both the outlet and the device. The charging cable should be flush with the camera, with pins on the stand or cable making proper contact with the camera pads.
3. Contact an electrician:If the device fails to charge or turn on, contact an electrician. You may require a new outlet or repairs.
4. Test power cable:Check the power cable or indoor-power adapter. Test by plugging it into another working power outlet.
   • New cable or adapter:You may need a new cable or power adapter if your camera or doorbell doesn’t turn on or charge.
5. Get more help:Find more help keeping your device charged in our save battery for Nest cameras & doorbells article.

If your doorbell is wired to the doorbell system

Important:The doorbell's battery charges completely the first time you charge it. To extend battery life, it charges only to 80% when tethered. Before installation, use the USB cord to charge the battery above 80%.

After wiring, the battery drops to 80% or below.

1. Check power:If you recently installed your doorbell, ensure you switch the power for your doorbell system back on at the breaker box.
2. Inspect wires:Check that the wire ends are clean and wrapped securely around the screws on your doorbell's back. You may need to tighten the wire screws a bit.
3. Prevent contact:Make sure the ends of the wires do not touch each other or the base plate. Trim the wire ends and bend them if needed.
4. More help:For more information, refer to Save battery for Nest cameras and doorbells .