If you’re experiencing issues with your Nest doorbell, you’re not alone. Many users have reported problems with their Nest doorbell not working as expected. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on your doorbell to keep your home safe and secure.
If your Nest doorbell isn’t functioning properly, it could be due to a low battery, faulty wiring, or settings hindering its performance. Luckily, troubleshooting steps exist to resolve the issue and restore your doorbell’s functionality. This article covers common causes and offers solutions for your Nest doorbell troubles.
Why is Nest Doorbell not working?
If your Nest Doorbell is not working, it could be due to a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common issues that might be causing your Nest Doorbell to malfunction:
- Weak Wi-Fi signal: The Nest Doorbell requires a strong Wi-Fi signal to work properly. If the Wi-Fi signal is weak, the doorbell may not connect to the internet or may experience connectivity issues.
- Low battery: If the battery charge is low, the Nest Doorbell may not work as expected. Make sure to charge the battery fully before using the doorbell.
- Incorrect installation: If the Nest Doorbell is not installed correctly, it may not work properly. Make sure to follow the installation instructions carefully.
- Compatibility issues: The Nest Doorbell may not be compatible with all routers or devices. Make sure to check if your router and devices are compatible with the Nest Doorbell.
- Software updates: The Nest Doorbell may not work properly if it is not updated to the latest software version. Make sure to check for software updates regularly.
Troubleshooting Nest Doorbell Not Working
Checking the Power Supply
When your Nest Doorbell is not charging, the first thing you should check is the power supply. Here are the steps to follow:
- Make sure that the outlet the doorbell is plugged into is working by plugging in another device. If the other device works, then there may be an issue with the doorbell itself and it should be replaced. If the other device does not work, then there may be an issue with the outlet and it should be checked by a professional.
- Check the voltage of the doorbell wiring. If your doorbell uses the doorbell wiring to stay powered and is properly connected, check the wire voltage. If it isn’t meeting the voltage and power requirements, you might need to replace the transformer or call a professional to fix it.
- If your doorbell is battery-powered, make sure the battery is securely in place and charged. If the battery is not holding a charge, it may need to be replaced.
- Check the power connector. Make sure the connector is fully inserted into the back of the Nest Doorbell. If it wasn’t, turn the circuit breaker to switch back on. If the small green light still doesn’t illuminate, turn the circuit switch off again, and try step 5.
- Check the power adapter. If your Nest Doorbell is connected to a power outlet with the included or optional power adapter, make sure it is properly connected and functioning. If it’s not, try a different power adapter.
By following these steps, you can identify and resolve any power supply issues with your Nest Doorbell.
Check Device Settings
When your Nest Doorbell is not working, one of the first things you should check is the device settings. Here are some steps to follow:
- Open the Nest app on your mobile device and select your doorbell from the list of devices.
- Tap on the gear icon in the top right corner to access the settings menu.
- Check that the device is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network and that the signal strength is strong enough. If the signal is weak, you may need to move the router closer to the doorbell or add a Wi-Fi extender to improve the connection.
- Make sure that the doorbell’s firmware is up to date. If there is an available update, you will see a notification in the app. Follow the prompts to install the update.
- Check the doorbell’s power source. If it is running on battery power, ensure the battery is charged and installed correctly. If it is wired, check that the wiring is connected properly and that the power source is working.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your Nest Doorbell is properly configured and connected to the network.
Inspect Doorbell Hardware
If your Nest Doorbell is not working, it is essential to inspect the doorbell hardware to identify any potential issues. Here are some steps to follow:
- Check the power source: Make sure the doorbell is receiving power from the wiring or battery. If it’s a wired doorbell, check the circuit breaker to ensure it’s switched on. If it’s a battery-powered doorbell, check the battery level and replace or recharge it if necessary.
- Inspect wiring connections: Check the wiring connections at the doorbell and chime to ensure they are secure and not corroded. Loose or corroded connections can cause the doorbell to malfunction.
- Test the doorbell button: Press the doorbell button to check if it’s working correctly. If it’s not, remove the button cover and inspect the button for any damage or debris. Clean the button and contacts with a soft cloth or brush.
- Check the chime: If the doorbell button is working correctly, but the chime is not ringing, check the chime itself. Make sure it’s receiving power and that the wiring connections are secure. You can also test the chime by bypassing the doorbell button and connecting the wires directly.
- Verify Wi-Fi connectivity: If your Nest Doorbell is connected to Wi-Fi, make sure it’s connected to the correct network and has a strong signal. Weak Wi-Fi signals can cause connectivity issues.
By following these steps, you can identify and resolve any hardware issues with your Nest Doorbell.
Testing the Internet Connection
If your Nest Doorbell is not working, it could be due to a poor internet connection. To test your internet connection, follow these steps:
- Open the Nest app on your mobile device.
- Tap on the Nest Doorbell device.
- Look for the “Testing internet connection” message at the top of the screen.
- Wait for the test to complete.
If the test is successful, you will see a message that says “Internet connection is good.” and if the test fails, you will see a message that says “Internet connection is poor.”
If your internet connection is poor, try moving your router closer to your Nest Doorbell or using a Wi-Fi extender to boost the signal. You can also try restarting your router or contacting your internet service provider for assistance.
It’s important to note that a poor internet connection can also cause gaps in your Nest Doorbell’s video history. If you notice these gaps, it’s a good idea to check your internet connection and take steps to improve it if necessary.
In addition to testing your internet connection, you can also troubleshoot other issues with your Nest Doorbell by following the steps provided by the Nest app or consulting the Nest Help Center.
Inspecting Audio and Video Quality
When troubleshooting your Nest Doorbell, it’s important to inspect both the audio and video quality to identify any potential issues. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your Nest Doorbell is working properly:
Audio Quality
- Check the microphone settings in the Nest app. Make sure that the microphone is turned on and the sensitivity is adjusted properly.
- If the audio quality is poor, try moving the Nest Doorbell closer to the person speaking.
- Check for any obstructions that may be blocking the microphone, such as spider webs or debris.
- If you’re still experiencing audio issues, try resetting the Nest Doorbell and see if that resolves the problem.
Video Quality
- Check the camera lens for any smudges or dirt. Clean the lens with a soft, dry cloth to ensure that the video quality is clear.
- Ensure that the Nest Doorbell is positioned correctly. It should be mounted at a height of 4-5 feet and angled slightly downwards to capture the best view.
- Check the Wi-Fi signal strength in the area where the Nest Doorbell is installed. Poor Wi-Fi signal can cause video quality issues.
- If you’re still experiencing video issues, try resetting the Nest Doorbell and see if that resolves the problem.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your Nest Doorbell is working properly and capturing clear audio and video footage.
Power Cycle
If your Nest Doorbell is not working, one of the first troubleshooting steps you can take is to power cycle the device. Power cycling involves turning the device off and then on again, which can often resolve issues with the device’s software or hardware.
Here are the steps to power cycle your Nest Doorbell:
- If your Nest Doorbell is wired, turn off the power to the device by switching off the breaker that controls the doorbell circuit. If your Nest Doorbell is battery-powered, remove the battery from the device.
- Wait for at least 30 seconds before turning the power back on or reinserting the battery.
- Once the device has power again, wait for it to boot up and connect to your Wi-Fi network. This may take a few minutes.
- Check your Nest app to see if the issue has been resolved.
It’s important to note that power cycling your Nest Doorbell will not erase any of your device’s settings or configurations. However, if you have customized your doorbell’s settings, you may need to reconfigure them after power cycling the device.
Resetting the Device
If your Nest Doorbell is not working, resetting the device can help to resolve many issues. Here are the steps to reset the device based on whether you have a Nest Battery powered or Doorbell Wired.
Nest Battery powered
To reset your Nest Doorbell (battery-powered) device, follow these steps:
- Press and hold the button on the back of the device for at least 10 seconds until the light on the front of the device starts flashing.
- Release the button and wait for the device to restart. This process may take a few minutes.
- Once the device has restarted, you will need to set it up again using the Nest app.
Doorbell Wired
If you have a Nest Doorbell (wired), follow these steps to reset the device:
- Locate the small button on the back of the device.
- Press and hold the button for at least 5 seconds.
- The doorbell will restart, and the status light will be steady, solid white.
- Once the device has restarted, you will need to set it up again using the Nest app.
If you are having difficulty resetting your device, you can try the two-button reset. To do this, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the wires from the back of the device for 10 seconds.
- Reconnect the wires to the device.
- Press and hold the button on the back of the device for at least 10 seconds until the light on the front of the device starts flashing.
- Release the button and wait for the device to restart.
- Once the device has restarted, you will need to set it up again using the Nest app.
Resetting your Nest Doorbell can help to resolve many issues with the device.
Contact Support
If you need help with your Nest Doorbell, you can contact Nest support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to reset Nest doorbell (wired)?
If your Nest doorbell (wired) is not working, resetting it might help. To reset your Nest doorbell (wired), follow these steps:
- Turn off the power to your doorbell at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
- Wait for at least 30 seconds.
- Turn the power back on.
- Wait for your doorbell to start up.
Nest camera not connecting to Google Home?
If your Nest camera is not connecting to Google Home, try these steps:
- Make sure your Nest camera is set up and connected to your Wi-Fi network.
- Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet.
- Tap the “+” button to add a new device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to add your Nest camera to Google Home.
Nest camera offline iPhone?
If your Nest camera is offline on your iPhone, try these steps:
- Check your Wi-Fi network and make sure your iPhone is connected to the same network as your Nest camera.
- Open the Nest app on your iPhone.
- Tap on your Nest camera.
- Check the status of your Nest camera. If it says “offline,” tap on it and follow the on-screen instructions to troubleshoot the issue.