Before we dive into the battery replacement process, let’s take a moment to understand the type of batteries used in Blink cameras.
Unlike the Blink Mini, Blink cameras rely on two AA lithium batteries, designed to last up to two years with everyday use. (source: Blink)
It’s essential to note that the lifespan of the batteries can vary depending on various factors, such as environmental conditions and camera usage.
To ensure optimal performance, it’s highly recommended to use lithium batteries specifically, as other types, like alkaline or rechargeable batteries, may compromise your Blink camera’s functionality and battery life.
Factors Affecting Blink Camera Battery Lifespan
Several factors can impact the lifespan of your Blink camera batteries. Let’s explore some of these factors:
1. Lithium Battery Efficiency
When compared to alkaline batteries, lithium batteries have a higher energy efficiency. While slightly more expensive, lithium batteries can last 8 to 10 times longer, making them a dependable option for powering your Blink cameras.
Blink defines standard use as having about 15 hours of recorded video events, including live view and motion-activated recording.
It’s critical to understand that certain battery-intensive features can significantly impact the battery life of your Blink camera. These features include extended motion clip recording and frequent use of the live view feature.
By effectively understanding and managing these features, you can extend the life of your Blink camera batteries.
2. Extended Motion Clip Recording
Blink security cameras automatically record video events when motion is detected. However, this continuous recording can consume a significant amount of battery power.
To save battery life, adjust the sensitivity of your camera to reduce the frequency of motion-activated recordings. You can optimize your Blink camera’s performance by finding the right balance between sensitivity and battery usage.
3. Live View Feature
The live view feature lets you remotely view the video feed from your Blink camera using a mobile device. While this feature offers convenience and peace of mind, it’s important to note that it keeps the camera active, leading to increased battery drain.
We recommend judiciously using the live view feature to balance monitoring and preserving battery life.
4. Connectivity Strength
Ensure your Blink cameras maintain a strong wireless connection to your Wi-Fi network for optimal performance.
A poor wireless connection can cause the cameras to consume additional battery power to stabilize and maintain the signal.
It’s advisable to position your cameras within range of your Wi-Fi router and ensure a minimum of 3 bars of signal strength.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Blink Camera Batteries
Now that we have a solid understanding of Blink camera batteries and the factors influencing their lifespan let’s proceed to the step-by-step process of replacing the batteries:
1. Blink Indoor and Outdoor Cameras
The Blink indoor and outdoor cameras have batteries that last approximately two years. Here’s how you can replace the batteries in these models:
- Locate the back cover of the camera and identify the fastening screw.
- If there’s a silicone protective cover over the fastening screw, remove it.
- Turn the screw counterclockwise until it’s loose.
- Gently apply pressure to one side of the back cover to pry it off the device.
- Once the back cover is removed, you will find the two AA lithium batteries that need replacement.
- Ensure the new replacement batteries are inserted correctly, respecting the correct polarity.
- Align the back cover with the device and hold it in place.
- Turn the screw clockwise until it’s snug to secure the back cover.
2. Blink XT and XT2 Cameras
The Blink XT and XT2 cameras have a similar battery replacement process to the indoor and outdoor models. Here’s what you need to do:
- Locate the grey switch on the back cover of the camera, pointing downwards.
- Slide and hold the grey switch downwards in the direction of the arrow.
- While sliding down, use your thumb to pull up the battery cover.
- Note that the XT and XT2 cameras are designed to be airtight, so you may need to apply gentle force to remove the back cover.
- Once the back cover is removed, follow the earlier steps to replace the two AA 1.5v lithium batteries.
- Insert the new batteries with the correct polarity.
- Align the back cover with the device and ensure it’s securely closed.
Great job! You have successfully replaced the batteries in your Blink XT or XT2 camera.
Troubleshooting Battery Issues with Your Blink Camera
If you encounter any issues with your Blink camera batteries, we have some troubleshooting tips to help you out:
1. Ensure New Lithium Batteries
Always use two fresh lithium batteries when replacing the batteries in your Blink camera.
Even if one battery appears to have sufficient charge, using a pair of new batteries is crucial. Mixing old and new batteries can lead to errors and inaccurate battery readings.
2. Battery Draining Quickly
If you notice that your Blink camera batteries are draining rapidly, consider the following tips:
- Adjust Sensitivity: Excessive motion detection notifications or false alarms can contribute to battery drain. Access your camera’s settings through the Blink Home Monitor app and lower the sensitivity by moving the slider toward the “Low” setting. This adjustment will not only improve battery life but also reduce false alarms.
- Limit Live View Usage: While the live view feature offers convenience, its continuous use can significantly impact battery life. Minimize live view usage to essential monitoring needs, helping preserve battery performance.
Conclusion
Finally, changing the batteries in your Blink smart home security cameras is a simple process.
Following our step-by-step instructions, you can easily replace the batteries in your Blink Indoor, Outdoor, XT, or XT2 cameras.
Remember to use only lithium batteries and make necessary adjustments to maximize battery life.
READ MORE:
