Having been in the tech troubleshooting field for years, battery replacement–especially for security systems like the Blink camera–is an issue that I dealt with time and time again.
I have experienced a fair share of operational hiccups due to worn-out batteries. I cannot imagine the horror of not seeing my kids (read: my cats) during a week-long work trip just because I procrastinated on replacing my Blink Indoor batteries.
Believe me–it’s always better to replace them proactively.
Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Blink camera is an easy task. So, here’s a handy guide that covers the end-to-end process of battery replacement–from knowing when to replace your Blink camera to disposing of them properly.
When to Replace Blink Camera Battery
Knowing when to replace your Blink camera battery ensures that your security system operates efficiently.
Blink camera batteries can last up to two years under default settings, but their longevity will depend on usage, device settings, and environmental conditions.
Here are a few considerations to help you gauge when it’s the right time to replace your camera battery:
Check for a low battery indicators
As Taylor Swift’s song goes, “I gave so many signs…” Pay attention to your camera’s warning signs.
Once a low battery alert appears, replace the batteries of your Blink camera already.
Don’t procrastinate or ignore the alert, as you may miss essential recordings or milestones–such as your cat doing theatrics on its cat tower (yea, I’ve been there). Alexa can also notify you when your devices’ batteries are running low by enabling the Blink Smart Home Skill in the app.
Observe camera performance
Monitor the performance of your camera by checking on it regularly.
Is it up to speed? Are bugs happening more frequently?
If your Blink camera is not providing live feeds consistently, it’s a good indicator that its battery is depleting, and you should consider replacing it.
Check the battery mileage
When was the last time you changed your camera’s batteries?
If it’s been close to two years since your last upkeep, you should be getting new ones. Although your camera might not display a low battery warning, it’s better to avoid any unexpected downtime.
What type of battery is best for my Blink camera?
There is a wide range of Blink cameras available in the market.
To name a few, we have the classic Blink Indoor and Outdoor and the new line Blink XT and XT2. Both are high-powered cameras perfect for surveillance and keeping your home secure.
Consequently, several types of batteries can also be used for your Blink cameras. But the most recommended batteries are high-quality, non-rechargeable Energizer Ultimate 1.5v Lithium AA batteries or equivalent.
Energizer Ultimate 1.5v Lithium AA Battery
Energizer Ultimate 1.5v Lithium AA batteries are known for their long-lasting performance and ability to operate under extreme temperature conditions. They also have a lower self-discharge rate, ensuring a longer shelf life.
Since Blink cameras are a high-power draw device, it is perfect for lithium batteries that store a lot of energy and can operate in various temperature conditions.
On the other hand, avoid AA Lithium Ion (Li-ion) batteries as these carry a higher voltage and may cause issues with your camera.
I used these once, and they did not even last for a month, so take it from me.
Veer away from Alkaline-based batteries since they tend to decrease voltage over time which can reduce your camera’s performance. This type of battery might also cause potential damage to your Blink camera because of leaking issues.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Blink Camera Battery
Now that you have known the ‘when’ and ‘whats’ of replacing a Blink camera’s battery, it’s time to know how.
In this guide, you’ll learn the step-by-step procedure for replacing the battery in your Blink camera for uninterrupted security surveillance.
Let’s get started!
Removal of Old Battery
- First, remove the camera from where it is mounted. Depending on the model, you might need to unscrew or unclip it.
- When the camera is free, locate the battery compartment on the back or bottom of the device.
- Depending on the type of Blink camera you have, there are different ways to open their battery compartments:
Blink Indoor and Outdoor (3rd Gen): Use the opening tool and turn the screw counterclockwise to the left. Apply side pressure on the opener and gently open the battery compartment cover to unlock it.
Blink XT and XT2: Slide the switch in the direction of the arrow on the back of the camera. As you’re sliding, pull the battery cover up.
Blink Indoor (1st Gen): There is a latch at the bottom of the camera, slide it to release the battery cover.
- With the compartment open, remove the old batteries. Be sure to dispose of them properly.
Installation of New Battery
- Before installing the new batteries, check the battery requirements specified by the manufacturer. Most Blink cameras use AA lithium batteries. Get the Energizer type to ensure its best performance.
- Insert the new batteries into the compartment. Correctly align the orientations (positive and negative terminals) according to the compartment diagram.
- Double-check everything to ensure proper battery placement.
Note: You can also use a USB cable to power your Blink camera. Keep in mind that your battery will slightly drain if it is powered by a USB cable.
Securing the Battery Compartment
- After installing the new batteries, carefully close the battery compartment cover.
Blink Indoor and Outdoor: Align the back cover with the latch. Press it to the camera body and tighten the screw with the opening tool until it is locked. Push the cover down the camera body.
Blink XT and XT2: Put the camera cover on the body and push it on all sides to lock.
Blink Indoor (1st Gen): Press on the latch and push the camera body to the back cover. Release the latch to lock.
- Finally, reattach the camera to its mount and ensure it is firmly in place.
Your Blink camera should be ready to continue providing wireless security with a fresh battery powering it.
Proper Disposal of Old Blink Camera Batteries
Once you’ve replaced the batteries of your Blink camera, it’s essential to dispose of them properly. Not only will this help protect the environment, but it also ensures the safety of your household and local waste management workers.
It’s important to remember that you should never throw your used batteries in the regular trash bin. There is a different way to manage used household batteries because they contain chemicals that can leak and harm the environment.
As you gather your old batteries for disposal, place a piece of tape over the positive and negative terminals. This simple step can prevent accidental short-circuiting, which could lead to a fire in your recycling container or at the recycling facility.
Look into battery recycling programs initiated by local governments and organizations to keep this hazardous waste at bay. You can also check designated drop-off locations where you can safely dispose of them.
How can I maintain the optimal performance of my Blink camera batteries?
Once you dispose of the old batteries of your Blink camera, your next step should be to ensure that they will last longer.
As an essential part of your security system and (cat) surveillance, optimize your Blink camera to prevent battery depletion and malfunctions.
Don’t worry. I learned these the hard way and took all the notes so you won’t have to.
From adjusting your motion detection settings to updating your Blink app, here are some tips you can do to maximize the battery life of your Blink camera batteries.
Reduce Motion Detection Sensitivity
High-sensitivity settings can trigger the camera more often, leading to more recordings and faster battery drain.
Adjusting the sensitivity to a lower setting can help reduce unnecessary recordings and notifications, thus conserving energy.
Doing this doesn’t mean you are compromising the security of your home or shop, okay? But if you get a notification every time leaves of the tree across your street rustle, try adjusting the Sensitivity down two points.
Here’s how to adjust your Blink camera’s sensitivity:
- From the Blink app, choose Settings > Motion Settings.
- Select Motion Sensitivity and move the slider two points toward L (Low).
- Click Save to keep the changes.
- From the main screen of the Blink App, set the system to Armed and enable Motion Detection.
Now, time to put your camera to the test. Go within the frame of your Blink camera and create movement at different intensities.
Check if it triggers a notification based on the level of movement you consider alarming or worth the ping on your phone.
If you’re using the camera as a fur parent, check if it registers the movement from your cats (can be dogs or guinea pigs). Trust me. It is a battery saver and a real life-saver as well.
Shorten the clip length
Longer recordings consume more battery life. Set your Blink camera to record shorter clips when it detects motion by adjusting the settings on the app.
Motion clip length can be customized from 5 to 60 seconds. You can set it to what suits your needs by doing the following:
- Open the Blink app and click the camera you want to configure.
- Click on the Settings icon beside the live view thumbnail.
- Go to Video and Photo Settings.
- Reduce the length based on your needs and preference.
Adjusting the quality of the video can also affect your Blink camera’s battery. You can set it to Standard for mid-quality footage or Low if there’s not much at risk. Don’t forget to click Save once you change these settings.
Pro tip: You can also enable End Clip Early if Motion Stops to save more battery power without taking much of your Blink camera’s space.
Set an Activity Zone
Setting a focal point for the motion you want to see can also help you trim down the power that your Blink camera uses. In turn, your battery churns out power efficiently for moments that matter.
Thankfully, Blink cameras have a feature called Activity Zones, where you can eliminate certain areas in your camera’s field of view. Follow these steps to create your Activity Zones:
- In the Blink app, click on Camera Settings above the camera you want to change.
- Select Motion Settings > Motion Zones.
- A grid will appear over the frames your camera covers. Click Update Photo to set the zones you will eliminate.
- Tap on the grids you want to isolate. The camera will not record or detect movement from the grayed-out frames.
- After selecting the inactivity zones, tap Done.
Note: There are advanced options for Activity Zones that you can apply on Wired Floorlight, Blink Outdoor and Indoor (3rd Gen), and Blink XT2. These settings include being able to zoom into the frame for a more precise zone selection.
Update Wi-Fi Settings
A strong Wi-Fi signal allows the camera to operate more efficiently, thus saving more power for your battery. It can record and store footage on the Blink Cloud through Wi-Fi.
A weak internet connection doubles your Blink camera power usage to transmit and convert visual pixels. It can drain your battery faster, so always ensure your camera is within a good range of the internet router.
You can also consider using a Wi-Fi extender for better reception–especially for cameras outdoors.
Watch out for battery indicators
It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the battery indicators of your device so that you can prepare for battery replacements.
You can find the battery indicator on the Camera Settings screen of your Blink camera. By tapping the settings icon in the camera thumbnail and selecting General Settings, you’ll see a battery strength indication that displays either “OK” or “Needs Replacement.”
The Blink app will display a “High Usage” alert when your camera settings draw more power than usual. Restart your camera and allow it to cool down before using it again.
When a battery-powered device displays a low battery warning or indicator, it’s essential to take action promptly.
It’s always better to replace batteries sooner than later to maintain the device’s efficiency and lifespan.
Are you facing Blink camera battery issues? Here’s how to troubleshoot them!
Experiencing issues with your Blink Camera battery can be frustrating. In this section, I rounded up some friendly tips and advice on troubleshooting common battery problems.
Here are a few more tips to ensure your Blink camera battery lasts longer:
- Check the LED indicator on your Blink camera. A flashing red light might indicate low battery levels.
- Power cycle your Blink camera and the Sync Module to refresh the system and resolve connectivity issues.
- If your Blink camera stops working after a battery change, you may need to check the placement of the batteries and ensure correct installation. Another option is to delete the Blink camera from your Blink system and re-add it using the Blink app.
What if my Blink camera won’t work even after replacing the batteries?
Don’t hesitate to navigate through Blink customer guides if you encounter issues with your Blink camera despite changing its batteries.
You can also send a ticket for technical issues, and Blink support will reach out to your concern via email.
If you need to get in touch with a Blink customer support agent, you can call 781-332-5465 or toll-free at 1 833-392-5465. Their hotline is available every day, anytime.
When calling, please prepare your Blink account username. It is best if you are near the device so they can give you a more accurate fix. Their expertise can assist you in optimizing your home security setup and keeping your Blink cameras in excellent working condition.
Bottom line
Replacing batteries is one of those tasks that seems so simple–yet can bring about significant impact when overlooked or done incorrectly.
In case of battery depletion, refer back to our easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide on replacing the battery, and get your Blink camera back to its vigilant duties.
It’s a small investment of time and effort that promises a significant payoff – your peace of mind (and some cool videos of your cat riding your robot vacuum).
