Google Nest Doorbell Not Ringing or Recording

The Google Nest Doorbell is available in battery and wired versions, providing video doorbell functionality with Google Home integration. This guide covers ringing, recording, and connectivity issues.

Doorbell Not Connecting

Symptoms

  • Setup fails in Google Home
  • Doorbell not found
  • QR code scan fails

Solutions

  1. Power check - Battery version needs charge; wired needs 16-24VAC transformer.
  2. Use Google Home app - Set up through Google Home, not Nest app.
  3. WiFi signal - Check signal strength at doorbell location.
  4. Reset doorbell - Hold reset button (pinhole on back) for 10 seconds.
  5. Bluetooth enabled - Enable phone Bluetooth during setup.

Chime Not Ringing

Symptoms

  • No sound when button pressed
  • Mechanical chime not working
  • Google speakers not announcing

Solutions

  1. Wired chime compatibility - Check if your chime is compatible. May need chime connector.
  2. Chime settings - In Google Home, configure chime type (mechanical/digital).
  3. Google speakers - Enable doorbell announcements on Nest/Google speakers.
  4. Indoor chime volume - Adjust chime volume in doorbell settings.

Video Quality Issues

Symptoms

  • Blurry video
  • Buffering or lag
  • Night vision problems

Solutions

  1. Bandwidth - Nest Doorbell needs at least 2 Mbps upload for HD.
  2. WiFi signal - Strengthen WiFi at door location if signal is weak.
  3. Quality settings - Check video quality setting in camera options.
  4. Clean lens - Wipe lens to ensure clear video.

Battery Version Issues

Symptoms

  • Battery drains quickly
  • Won't charge via wiring
  • Frequent offline alerts

Solutions

  1. Reduce sensitivity - Lower motion sensitivity to reduce recordings.
  2. Wired charging - If wired, ensure 16-24VAC transformer for trickle charging.
  3. High traffic area - Busy locations drain battery faster.
  4. Cold weather - Battery capacity reduces in cold temperatures.

Recording and History

Symptoms

  • No event history
  • Events missing
  • Can't view past recordings

Solutions

  1. Nest Aware - Video history requires Nest Aware subscription.
  2. Free tier - Without subscription, only 3 hours of event history.
  3. Enable recording - Verify recording is enabled in camera settings.
  4. Activity zones - Configure zones to capture important events.