Repair Arlo Pro 5 Camera Power Loss During Storm Conditions

Power outages, surges, and electrical instability are common companions of severe weather. When a thunderstorm rolls in, the Arlo Pro 5—a battery‑powered, wire‑free security camera—can abruptly lose power or shut down. For homeowners who rely on the camera’s real‑time footage to keep an eye on their property, this can be a significant problem. The following guide walks you through diagnosing why the Arlo Pro 5 may lose power during storms, what to check and fix, and how to build a backup system that keeps the camera running even when the grid takes a hit.

Understanding Power Loss in the Arlo Pro 5 During Storms

The Arlo Pro 5 has three main power sources:

1. Internal rechargeable battery
2. USB‑C wall charger (when connected to a power outlet)
3. Battery backup mode (used when the wall charger is disconnected)

Storms affect these sources in different ways:

Understanding these relationships is the first step to effective troubleshooting.

Step‑by‑Step Troubleshooting

Below is a systematic approach you can follow. Each step builds on the previous one, so it’s best to proceed sequentially.

1. Verify the Camera’s Power Indicator

Open the Arlo app and locate the power icon on the device’s status screen. The icon will show one of three states:

• Green – Fully powered via wall charger or battery.
• Yellow – Battery at 20 %–80 %.
• Red – Battery below 20 % or no power source attached.

If the icon flashes red during a storm, the camera is either disconnected from the wall charger or the battery has been depleted.

2. Check the Wall Charger Connection

• Inspect the USB‑C cable for frays, kinks, or visible damage.
• Verify the wall adapter by plugging a known‑working charger into the same outlet.
• Test an alternate outlet in a different circuit that is less likely to be affected by the storm.

If the camera lights up with a different charger or outlet, the original power source was compromised.

3. Test the Internal Battery

Even if the camera is plugged in, a weak battery can cause a drop‑in power event:

1. Remove the battery from the camera (consult the user manual for removal steps).
2. Reinsert it firmly and check for any resistance or unusual sounds.
3. Run a battery health check via the app (Settings → Battery).

A battery showing less than 80 % capacity after a full charge is a candidate for replacement.

4. Reset the Camera

Sometimes the firmware or internal power management gets stuck:

• Press and hold the button on the back of the camera for 15 seconds until the LED blinks red, then green.
• Re‑pair the camera through the Arlo app.

If the camera reconnects, the issue was likely a temporary glitch.

5. Install a Surge Protector

Lightning can cause voltage spikes that damage the charger or the camera itself. Protect your setup by:

• Plugging the wall charger into a high‑quality surge protector.
• Ensuring the protector has a joule rating appropriate for your region (typically 400–800 J).

If you live in an area with frequent storms, a surge protector should be part of the standard setup.

6. Use a Battery Backup (Portable Power Bank)

If the storm takes your power supply out entirely, a portable power bank can keep the camera online:

• Choose a power bank rated 5 V 2 A (USB‑C) with at least 10,000 mAh.
• Connect the power bank to the camera’s USB‑C port.
• Monitor the camera’s battery indicator to ensure the backup is functioning.

A power bank provides a bridge during outages but will eventually drain, so it’s best used in combination with a surge protector.

7. Update Firmware

Older firmware versions can contain bugs that affect power management:

1. Open the Arlo app.
2. Go to Device Settings → Firmware Update.
3. Follow the prompts to install the latest update.

Keep the firmware up‑to‑date to benefit from performance fixes and improved power handling.

8. Secure the Outdoor Mount

Storms can physically dislodge the camera or damage its mounting:

• Inspect the mounting bracket for cracks or loose screws.
• Tighten all fasteners.
• Use weather‑sealed mounting hardware if available.

A secure mount prevents accidental disconnections that might trigger a power loss.

Building a Backup Power System

A storm‑ready Arlo Pro 5 setup includes layers of redundancy. Here’s how to architect one:

1. Primary Power Source – Wall charger with surge protector.
2. Secondary Power Source – Portable power bank with USB‑C output.
3. Tertiary Power Source – Solar panel or battery pack (if you have a solar kit).
4. Monitoring – Use a smart plug that reports power status to the Arlo app.

By having three independent power paths, you reduce the likelihood that any single failure stops the camera.

Preventive Maintenance Checklist

Sticking to this checklist keeps the camera reliable when weather takes its toll.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming the camera can live off battery alone during a storm – Batteries can drain quickly under heavy streaming.
• Using cheap surge protectors – They may not handle high‑current spikes.
• Ignoring firmware updates – Bug fixes often include power management patches.
• Mounting in exposed locations – Wind can shift or damage the camera.
• Relying solely on the mains during storms – Power outages are frequent during severe weather.

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure uninterrupted surveillance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the Arlo Pro 5 have a built‑in UPS?
A: No, it relies on the external battery and optional external power bank.

Q: Can I use a regular USB charger?
A: Only if it supplies 5 V 2 A and is compatible with the camera’s USB‑C port. Official chargers are recommended.

Q: How long does the camera last on a fully charged battery?
A: Approximately 30 days of continuous use, depending on motion settings and usage.

Q: Should I install a whole‑house surge protector?
A: Yes, it protects all electronics in the home, including the Arlo system.

Q: What if the camera still loses power after all checks?
A: Contact Arlo support; the unit may have an internal fault requiring repair or replacement.

Closing Thoughts

Storms are unavoidable, but power loss doesn’t have to be. By understanding the ways weather affects the Arlo Pro 5’s power systems, checking each component methodically, and adding layers of protection—surge protectors, backup batteries, and secure mounting—you create a robust surveillance setup that keeps your home safe. Regular maintenance and staying on top of firmware updates will further reduce the risk of downtime. When the next storm rolls in, your Arlo camera will stay powered and recording, giving you peace of mind that comes from reliable security.