Many everyday devices we use in our homes require batteries to operate, and the Blink smart home security camera is no exception. Their batteries are expected to last two years, but when they finally give out, you’ll need to know how to change them.

Blink makes changing the batteries on their cameras intuitive and user friendly; however, the process may differ depending on which device or model you’re using.

When it comes to home security monitoring, the last thing you want is for your device to lose power. Fortunately, there are ways to tell when it’s time to replace your Blink camera batteries, as well as some alternatives to keep you monitoring longer. This article will look at how to change Blink camera batteries and some troubleshooting tips to optimize your battery life.

Blink cameras, excluding the Blink Mini, use two AA lithium batteries, expected to last up to two years (with everyday use) (Source: Blink). The duration of your batteries’ lifespan may vary, however, based on environmental and usage factors. For example, using your camera in high traffic areas (like busy streets or sidewalks) will more quickly drain your battery.

Additionally, Blink recommends that you only use lithium batteries and avoid alkaline or rechargeable batteries, which could significantly reduce your camera’s functionality and battery life.

Before examining how to replace the batteries on your device, let’s take a closer look at some factors that could affect their expected lifespan.

Lithium Battery Lifespan

Though lithium batteries cost more than alkaline batteries, they are also expected to last 8 to 10 times longer due to their energy efficiency. Blink defines standard use as 15 hours of recorded video events (including live view and motion-activated recording). Additionally, certain battery-intensive features can reduce the battery’s life, such as:

  • Extended Motion Clip Recording: When Blink security cameras detect motion, they will automatically record the event. While recording, the cameras use a significant amount of battery power to operate, which can rapidly drain your charge. Users can lower the camera’s sensitivity to reduce the frequency that the motion recording is triggered.Using the Live View Feature: The “Live View” feature provides individuals the ability to view their Blink camera’s video feed remotely from their mobile devices. Though a helpful feature, using live view forces the camera to remain “active,” thus decreasing your battery life.Poor Connectivity: With your Blink cameras, it’s essential to make sure you have at least 3 bars of signal strength while connected to your Wi-Fi network. If your cameras have a poor wireless connection, they will use additional battery power to stabilize and maintain the signal.

Using Lithium vs. Alkaline Batteries

With the potential need to frequently replace your batteries (depending on personal usage), you may be wondering, “what about the more budget-friendly option, alkaline batteries?” Though initially a cheaper option, you will be replacing them much more frequently than lithium batteries due to their lower power efficiency.

Additionally, alkaline batteries do not have sufficient energy to power some of the Blink cameras’ more “intensive” high usage features (live view, motion detection, etc.), significantly reducing your device’s performance.

Now that we have a better understanding of how the Blink camera batteries function and how long they are expected to last, let’s look at some tips for changing your batteries when they’re inevitably depleted.

Tips for Changing Your Batteries

When our devices run out of power, the last thing we want is a complicated replacement process. This is especially true when it comes to our home security monitoring devices.

Though the process varies slightly depending on which model you’re using, Blink makes it easy to replace your camera’s batteries, so you can be up and monitoring again in no time.

The Indoor and Outdoor Blink cameras have an estimated 2-year battery life and can be easily replaced once depleted. Here are a few steps for replacing the batteries on your Blink outdoor and indoor cameras:

  • For both models, the batteries and serial number (required for initially adding the device to your system) can be found under the back cover.Before removing the back cover, you will need to remove the device from any mounts or attachments (most can be easily detached from the unit).Some devices have a silicone protective cover over the fastening screw, which will need to be removed. Then, turn the screw counter-clockwise until loose.When you remove the back cover, you may need to gently apply pressure to one side to pry the cover off the device. Once the cover has been removed, you will see the two AA lithium batteries that will need to be replaced.Make sure your new replacement batteries are in the correct orientation before reattaching the back cover.After you have replaced the batteries, align the back cover with the device, and hold it in place. Then simply turn the screw clockwise until snug, and you’re ready to go!

If you have a Blink XT or XT2, the process is similar to the indoor and outdoor models, with a few differences:

  • Before removing the back cover, you will need to remove the device from any mounts or attachments (most can be easily detached from the unit).

  • First, you’ll need to locate the grey switch with an arrow pointing downwards (on the back cover).Next, 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: The XT and XT2 are designed to be airtight, so this step may require some gentle force.)After the back cover has been removed, the process is identical to replacing your batteries with the Indoor and Outdoor models. The XT and XT2 require two AA 1.5v lithium batteries.

It is worth noting that Blink also offers the Blink Mini, which is powered by a Micro USB connection and doesn’t use batteries.

Now that we have a better understanding of removing the back cover and replacing the batteries on your devices, let’s go over some troubleshooting tips if you run into any issues using your batteries.

Before troubleshooting your device, there are a few things you’ll need to verify.

First, make sure that you are using two new lithium batteries with your device, even if only one battery shows signs of depletion. Using a new battery side by side with an older one (even if it still has sufficient charge) can cause errors with your camera. Users have experienced their devices displaying low battery messages, even after replacing the depleted battery.

That being said, what if you’re using two brand new lithium batteries and still run into issues?

Battery Draining Quickly

One of the most common issues that Blink users experience with their batteries is rapid draining. As we discussed earlier, the lithium batteries on your camera are expected to last up to two years; however, their lifespan can be significantly reduced depending on usage. Here are a few tips to make sure your battery will last as long as expected:

Adjust Your Device’s Sensitivity

If your device is continuously sending motion detection notification or triggering false alarms, you can adjust your sensitivity by navigating to the settings (via the Blink Home Monitor app). Simply open up the corresponding camera’s settings and move the “Sensitivity” slider towards the “L” for “Low.” In addition to improving battery life, lowering your camera’s sensitivity will also reduce false alarms.

Using Live View

The ability to remotely access your Blink camera’s footage via “Live View” is a selling point for many users. This feature, however, can also have a significant impact on your overall battery life. Try to use live view only when necessary to help improve your battery performance.

If you’re looking for more tips to improve your battery life, you can also check out our article on Blink cameras’ “high usage” settings here. [LINK TO “How Long Do Blink Camera Batteries Last” ARTICLE].

In Summary

Having to change batteries on your devices can sometimes be a hassle. With Blink devices, however, the process is intuitive and can be done relatively quickly. As an additional bonus, Blink cameras are powered by two lithium batteries, expected to last up to two years, providing homeowners with consistent and reliable security monitoring.