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Nest cam battery, charging slow (not getting enough power) when using supplied charging cables.

TB3377
Community Member

Recently every time I try to charge any of my four cameras, they all say “not getting enough power” while charging. I’m using the supplied charging cables and blocks. I’ve tried using other charging blocks and those have the same issue of “not having enough power” 

1 REPLY 1

pereztzum
Community Specialist
Community Specialist

Hi @TB3377

 

That definitely sounds like a frustrating situation. Since you've tried multiple cameras, cables, and chargers, we can narrow down the possible causes to a few areas:

  1. Camera Power Requirements:
  • Double-check Requirements: First, grab your Nest Cam's user manual or visit the Nest website to confirm the exact voltage (V) and amperage (A) required for charging. It should be listed in the specifications section.
  • Charger Output Mismatch: Look at the supplied power adapter for your Nest Cam. It should specify the output voltage and amperage (e.g., 5V 2A). Ensure these numbers match the camera's requirements. A mismatch could cause the "not getting enough power" message.
  1. Outlet Issues (Less Likely):
  • Try Different Outlets: While less probable, try plugging the chargers into different wall outlets in your house. This helps rule out the possibility of a faulty outlet causing insufficient power delivery.
  1. Less Common Causes:
  • Port Cleaning: Although unlikely with all cameras, try cleaning the charging ports on your Nest Cams and the connectors on the cables with a compressed air can. Dust buildup can sometimes hinder a proper connection.
  • Firmware Update (if applicable): Check the Nest website for any available firmware updates for your Nest Cam model. Occasionally, updates can address charging-related issues. 
    • Temperature issues

Cold Weather:

  • Reduced Battery Life: At temperatures between -4°F (-20°C) and 32°F (0°C), the battery in your Nest camera or doorbell will struggle to hold a charge. You might experience faster battery drain, needing to recharge more frequently.
  • Potential Battery Damage: In very cold conditions (below -4°F), prolonged exposure can permanently damage the battery. This reduces its overall lifespan and ability to hold a charge.

Hot Weather:

  • Battery Degradation: Exposing your Nest camera or doorbell to temperatures exceeding 140°F (60°C) can accelerate the battery's degradation. Over time, the battery won't hold a charge for as long as it used to.
  • Safety Risk: In extreme heat, there's a slight risk of the battery overheating. This could potentially damage the device itself or even pose a fire hazard.

Since you've exhausted the usual solutions, here's what to do next:

  • Contact Nest Support: Reach out to our Nest customer support for further troubleshooting and potential warranty repair options. They can provide more specific guidance based on your Nest Cam model and details about the issue.
  • Consider Warranty Repair: If your Nest Cams are still under warranty and our Nest support team determines a hardware issue, they might offer repair or replacement options.
  • Camera Replacement (if out of warranty): If the cameras are outside warranty or repairs aren't feasible, you might need to consider replacing the Nest Cams themselves.

By following these steps, you should be able to pinpoint the cause of the "not getting enough power" message and get your Nest Cams charging properly again.

 

Best, 

Brandon.