Wyze Video Doorbell Humming Sound Troubleshooting -... | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

The Wyze Video Doorbell relies on a low-voltage AC transformer for power. The humming sound often originates from electrical components, such as the transformer itself, or within the doorbell's internal circuitry (motor drive for the mechanical chime simulation). Signal integrity (RSSI) on the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi band is crucial for reliable operation. Low RSSI (<-70 dBm) can contribute to instability and unexpected behaviour. Power consumption increases during video recording and chime activation. Battery impedance increases in cold temperatures (below -20°C), potentially causing voltage drops.

Symptoms:

Audible humming sound emanating from the Wyze Video Doorbell unit. Possible accompanying symptoms include: intermittent video feed, delayed notifications, and/or error logs in the Wyze app indicating insufficient power or network connectivity. Check for LED status: a flickering or unusual colour may indicate a power issue. Examine app logs for error codes related to power supply or transformer malfunction.

Possible Causes:

Insufficient power from the transformer (under-spec'd for doorbell requirements).
Loose wiring connections at the transformer, doorbell, or chime.
Interference on the AC power line (e.g., from nearby appliances).
Defective transformer exhibiting electrical hum due to aging or overload.
Mechanical chime motor malfunction causing excessive current draw and humming.
Extreme cold weather affecting battery impedance (for battery-powered models or battery backup) leading to instability.

Solution:

1

*Power Cycle:** Turn off the breaker supplying power to the doorbell transformer for 5 minutes, then restore power. This resets the system and may resolve temporary glitches.
2

*Transformer Check (Safety Warning: Turn off breaker before proceeding):** Use a multimeter to measure the AC voltage output of the transformer. It should be within the specified range (typically 16-24VAC). If the voltage is significantly lower, replace the transformer with a suitable upgrade.
3

*Wiring Inspection (Safety Warning: Turn off breaker before proceeding):** Inspect all wiring connections at the transformer, doorbell, and chime. Tighten any loose connections and look for signs of corrosion or damage. Replace any damaged wiring.
4

*Isolate Interference:** Temporarily disconnect other electrical devices on the same circuit to see if the humming sound disappears. If so, identify and address the source of interference (e.g., by using a power line filter).
5

*Chime Compatibility Verification:** Consult the Wyze website or support documentation to ensure your mechanical chime is compatible with the Wyze Video Doorbell. An incompatible chime can cause issues with power delivery and operation.
6

*RSSI Check:** Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone to measure the RSSI signal strength at the doorbell location. Aim for RSSI values above -60 dBm for optimal performance. Consider relocating your Wi-Fi router or adding a Wi-Fi extender to improve coverage.
7

*Factory Reset & Reconfiguration:** As a last resort, perform a factory reset of the Wyze Video Doorbell and reconfigure it using the Wyze app. This can resolve software glitches that may be contributing to the humming sound.

Safety Warning:

Turn off breaker before proceeding):** Use a multimeter to measure the AC voltage output of the transformer. It should be within the specified range (typically 16-24VAC). If the voltage is significantly lower, replace the transformer with a suitable upgrade. 3. **Wiring Inspection (Safety Warning: Turn off breaker before proceeding):** Inspect all wiring connections at the transformer, doorbell, and chime. Tighten any loose connections and look for signs of corrosion or damage. Replace any damaged wiring. 4. **Isolate Interference:** Temporarily disconnect other electrical devices on the same circuit to see if the humming sound disappears. If so, identify and address the source of interference (e.g., by using a power line filter). 5. **Chime Compatibility Verification:** Consult the Wyze website or support documentation to ensure your mechanical chime is compatible with the Wyze Video Doorbell. An incompatible chime can cause issues with power delivery and operation. 6. **RSSI Check:** Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone to measure the RSSI signal strength at the doorbell location. Aim for RSSI values above -60 dBm for optimal performance. Consider relocating your Wi-Fi router or adding a Wi-Fi extender to improve coverage. 7. **Factory Reset & Reconfiguration:** As a last resort, perform a factory reset of the Wyze Video Doorbell and reconfigure it using the Wyze app. This can resolve software glitches that may be contributing to the humming sound.

Prevention:

- Perform regular visual inspections of wiring connections for corrosion or damage. - Check the transformer voltage annually using a multimeter. - Monitor Wi-Fi signal strength (RSSI) at the doorbell location periodically. - Keep the doorbell firmware up to date via the Wyze app (OTA updates). - Consider a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for the transformer to protect against power fluctuations during Canadian storms and blizzards.

Expert Tip:

If you are experiencing intermittent humming, try bypassing the mechanical chime completely by configuring the Wyze Video Doorbell to use only the Wyze app notifications and smart speaker announcements. This eliminates the chime motor as a potential source of the noise.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of transformer is recommended for the Wyze Video Doorbell in Canada?

A 16-24VAC transformer with a minimum of 10VA is generally recommended. Ensure it meets Canadian electrical safety standards (CSA certified).

•How do I test the battery health of my Wyze Video Doorbell if it has a battery backup?

Check the battery voltage using a multimeter after it has been disconnected from the main power source for several hours. Refer to the Wyze documentation for the expected voltage range for a healthy battery.

•Can the cold Canadian weather damage my Wyze Video Doorbell?

Extreme cold can affect the battery performance and potentially cause premature failure. Consider insulating the doorbell if it is exposed to extreme temperatures. Check Wyze documentation for operating temperature ranges.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of transformer is recommended for the Wyze Video Doorbell in Canada?

•How do I test the battery health of my Wyze Video Doorbell if it has a battery backup?

•Can the cold Canadian weather damage my Wyze Video Doorbell?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

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