If your Cync (formerly C by GE) smart bulb or switch won't connect to the Cync app, isn't responding to commands, or having issues with voice assistants, this guide covers the most common problems and solutions.
Bulb Won't Enter Pairing Mode
When the Cync bulb won't start pairing:
- Turn the bulb off and on 3 times quickly (1 second on, 1 second off)
- The bulb should start pulsing slowly indicating pairing mode
- If it doesn't pulse, try the sequence again more slowly
- Ensure the bulb is in a standard socket, not a dimmer-controlled fixture
- Try the bulb in a different fixture to rule out socket issues
- Wait 30 seconds between reset attempts
WiFi Setup Fails
If the bulb won't connect during setup:
- Cync devices require 2.4GHz WiFi network
- Make sure your phone is on the 2.4GHz network during setup
- Move the bulb closer to your router temporarily
- Check that your WiFi password is entered correctly
- Disable VPN on your phone during setup
- Grant all permissions requested by the Cync app
Bulb Goes Offline or Unresponsive
When the bulb keeps disconnecting:
- Check if someone turned off the light switch - bulb needs constant power
- Verify WiFi signal strength at the bulb location
- Restart your router to refresh connections
- Power cycle the bulb by turning the switch off for 10 seconds
- Check for firmware updates in the Cync app
- Remove and re-add the bulb if issues persist
Color or Brightness Not Changing
If the bulb doesn't respond to adjustments:
- Ensure the bulb is showing as online in the app
- Check if a scene or schedule is overriding your settings
- Force close and reopen the Cync app
- Try controlling from another device
- Verify the bulb model supports color (some are white-only)
- Power cycle the bulb and try again
Google Home or Alexa Not Working
For voice assistant issues:
- Link your Cync account in Google Home or Alexa app
- Use "Hey Google, sync my devices" to refresh
- Ensure the bulb has a simple, unique name
- Check that the bulb is online in the Cync app first
- Try unlinking and re-linking the Cync skill
- Avoid special characters in device names
Cync Switch Not Responding
For Cync smart switch issues:
- Verify the switch has power (check circuit breaker)
- Press the switch button to test physical operation
- Check wire connections are secure
- Ensure neutral wire is connected if required
- Reset by pressing and holding for 10 seconds
- Re-add to the Cync app after reset
Schedules Not Running
If automation doesn't trigger:
- Verify schedules are enabled in the app
- Check time zone settings
- Ensure the device is online at scheduled times
- Delete and recreate problem schedules
- Check for app updates
Factory Reset
For persistent issues:
- For bulbs: Turn off/on 3 times, then leave on until it pulses
- For switches: Press and hold button for 10 seconds
- Remove device from Cync app
- Set up as new device
- Reconfigure all settings and schedules