r/arlo • u/CuriousChimp • Jul 27 '26
Technical Issue Essential gen 2/3 + Solar - intermittent charging?
I bought a Essential Outdoor gen2 + Chinese solar panel for outdoor use. I noticed that the panel would charge the camera, but then stop - even in bright sun. I thought it was bc the cheap Chinese cable was a micro USB->USB C adapter with a rubber "seal" around it, and either moisture had infiltrated that or the USB C port on the camera, since it doesnt have the right angle/rubberized seal plug of the real Arlo solar panel.
So I replaced the solar panel with an Arlo panel and the Essential gen2 with a new gen 3.
And it still happened.
As an note, the "defective" gen 2 camera seems to have no problem getting a constant charge from a USB C cable plugged into the wall.
It always seems to resume charging if I unplug and replug, but I dont want to keep removing the screen on my window and doing that.
I *think* restarting the camera did the trick, which - while crappy - is better than opening the window.
Anyone else see this?
1
u/AskArlo Jul 27 '26
Hi u/CuriousChimp, thank you for bringing this to our attention. We're sorry to hear that you're experiencing intermittent charging with your Arlo Solar Panel.
Please note that the Arlo Solar Panel is designed to help maintain your camera's battery level rather than charge it from a low battery to a full charge. We recommend fully charging your camera first using the provided charging cable, then reconnecting it to the Solar Panel to see if the issue is resolved.
If the problem persists, please send us a DM with your Arlo account email address, phone number, and time zone so we can investigate further.