Is Reolink Camera Not Charging? (7 Working Solutions!)

Reolink camera not charging can be quite worrisome, as you might suspect a hardware malfunction or permanent damage to your camera.

If this is the exact scenario you face, don’t worry; we have some fixes to try out.

To fix the Reolink camera not charging, start by inspecting your power source and battery for issues. Next, reset your camera and check its firmware in case it’s outdated. 

Now that you know part of the steps we will take to fix your Reolink camera, let’s first examine the causes behind power-related issues.

Why is My Reolink Camera Not Charging?

If you find that your Reolink camera is quickly losing all its battery levels, or if it’s not charging at all, it’s likely there is either an issue with the power source or with your camera battery or charging cable.

In some cases, however, the cause might be a software issue.

Here are some of the most common causes for Reolink Camera not charging:

Now that you know some of the more common underlying causes for Reolink cameras not charging, let’s test out some troubleshooting solutions to fix it.

How to Fix Reolink Camera Not Charging

Tip: Reolink Go cameras have removable batteries and can be charged separately.

Solution #1: Check Your Camera Power Source

Reolink solar camera not charging can be caused by the solar panels not being properly set up or having an issue with power delivery.

If you don’t use solar energy, it’s likely the issue is instead with the power source you use.

Here are the steps to check your Reolink camera for power-related issues:

1. Ensure the power adapter for your Reolink camera is functioning.
2. Check the surface of your solar panel and thoroughly clean it.
3. Ensure your solar panel is optimally angled based on the current season and pattern.
4. Take a multimeter and ensure your capacitors or batteries work correctly.
5. Verify the outlet’s functionality by plugging in a different device that you know is properly working and charging – if the issue is the same, use a different power outlet.
6. Examine the adapter for any signs of damage or wear.
7. Test the camera with a different compatible adapter to identify any adapter issues.

After these steps. reconnect the Reolink camera to ensure a stable power connection, and observe the camera for signs of charging after these steps.

Note: Operating your Reolink while it's constantly plugged in can degrade battery life.

Solution #2: Reset the Reolink Camera

Sometimes, your Reolink camera might glitch out because it has a static charge that has accumulated or a software error and is adversely affecting its sensitive electronics.

To prevent this problem from occurring, you have to reset your Reolink device.

Here are the general steps to reset your Reolink camera (note that exact steps might vary):

1. Locate the reset button on your Reolink camera – usually on the backside.
2. Press and hold the reset button for several seconds to initiate a reset.
3. Allow the camera to reboot completely following the reset.
4. Reconnect the camera to its power source after rebooting.
5. Check for indicator lights that signal the camera is charging.
6. Test the Reolink camera’s functionality to confirm the reset was successful.

Note: A hard reset will erase any user settings you have configured and other stored data.

Solution #3: Check For Battery Issues

Since some Reolink cameras work solely on battery power and are only charged occasionally, a charging issue is likely due to a faulty battery.

In some cases, however, the issue could be resolved by checking how the battery is installed.

Here is how to check your Reolink camera for battery-related power issues:

1. Carefully remove the battery from your Reolink camera.
2. Check to ensure that the touch pins on your Reolink camera and battery are not bent.
3. Gently clean the battery contacts with a clean cloth.
4. Check the battery for any signs of damage or corrosion.
5. Correctly reinsert the battery into the camera.
6. Connect the camera to its power source to initiate charging.
7. Watch for indicators that the battery is charging properly.

If you spot or suspect that your Reolink camera is defective, it’s best to order a new one; just ensure that you have ordered the correct model. 

Note: Try swapping out a different battery to rule out the possibility of a defective unit.

Solution #4: Update the Firmware of Your Reolink Device

In case your Reolink camera is running on old software, it might cause issues with battery usage or prevent charging completely.

To ensure this won’t happen to your camera, it’s vital to download and install the latest possible software.

Here are some general steps to update your Reolink camera firmware:

1. Ensure your Reolink camera is connected to a stable WiFi network.
2. Use the Reolink app to access the camera’s settings for firmware updates.
3. Search for any available firmware updates in the settings.
4. Download and install any available updates for your camera.
5. You can see the current latest firmware version here.
6. Restart the camera after installing the update.
7. Try charging the camera again to see if the issue is resolved.

Note: Check that you aren't downloading the software over your smartphone's 4G or 5G network to preserve bandwidth.

Solution #5: Check the Charging Cable

If you have checked that the battery is properly working, yet your Reolink still is not charging as it’s supposed to, it is likely your charging cable is faulty.

To prevent this, you have to visually isolate your charging cable and test if it is working.

Here are the ways to check your Reolink charging cable for issues:

1. Thoroughly inspect the Reolink charging cable for damage.
2. If it appears torn in some places, don’t use electrical tape, but order a brand new cable.
3. Test the camera with a different compatible charging cable.
4. Make sure both ends of the cable are firmly connected.
5. Don’t use third-party charging cables, as they can lead to permanent damage.
6. Clean the cable ends with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
7. Reconnect the charging cable to your Reolink camera.
8. Look for signs that the camera is charging properly, such as a glowing green light.

Note: Sometimes, if your home's circuit breaker is triggered, it can cut off power to specific outlets.

Solution #6: Check For Temperature Extremes 

Reolink camera not charging from solar panel or via a regular power source; outside environmental factors may be affecting the battery or charging.

To prevent this scenario from occurring, you have to check the operating conditions of your camera.

• Ensure your Reolink camera is not in an environment with extreme temperatures.
• Move the camera to a stable, temperature-controlled environment if possible. 
• Place the camera in a position sheltered from direct sunlight during peak hours.
• Protect the camera from exposure to rain or moisture.
• Dry the camera thoroughly if it has been exposed to water.
• Reconnect the camera to its power source in a suitable environment.
• Monitor the camera to see if it begins charging in the new environment.

Additionally, it’s worthwhile to ensure that your camera is not installed underneath air vents or HVACS heat-generating parts.

Note: Avoid installing your Reolink camera facing very bright lights or close to moving vehicles. 

Solution #7: Check for Grounding

A more advanced troubleshooting method is to check if your camera is properly electrically grounded.

In some instances, your camera can enter into a protective NVR mode that will stop or restrict charging.

Here is how to ensure your Reolink camera is properly set and configured:

• Check if the NVR has its own lightning protection and grounding features.
• If this potential difference exceeds 64V, the NVR’s protection mechanism will activate. Triggering of this scenario can cause the NVR to automatically power off.
• Disconnect all cameras from the NVR.
• Let the NVR operate independently for one or two days to see if it continues to reboot.

Note: Before conducting this test, ensure that the auto-reboot function is disabled.

Quick Recap

To fix your Reolink camera not charging, start by checking its battery for issues and if it’s properly connected.

Next, check the power cable and restart your Reolink device.