Removing your Arlo camera battery is quick and simple when you follow the right steps—start by powering off the camera and releasing the battery compartment latch. Slide out the battery carefully to avoid damaging internal connectors, ensuring smooth replacements or recharging. No tools required—just a few seconds of your time!
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How to Remove Arlo Camera Battery in 5 Easy Steps
Key Takeaways
- Power off first: Always turn off the Arlo camera before removing the battery.
- Locate the latch: Find the battery compartment’s release button or latch.
- Press and slide: Gently press the latch and slide the cover open.
- Remove safely: Lift the battery straight out without forcing it.
- Inspect contacts: Check for dust or damage before reinserting or replacing.
- Store properly: Keep spare batteries in a cool, dry place for longevity.
Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem
Let’s be real—your Arlo camera is your home’s quiet guardian. It watches over your front porch, backyard, or even your pet’s favorite napping spot. But after months (or even years) of service, the battery starts to fade. Maybe it’s not holding a charge like it used to. Or perhaps you’re upgrading to rechargeable batteries for better performance.
That’s when you realize: “How do I even remove this thing without breaking it?”
You’re not alone. Many people panic at the thought of prying open their weatherproof camera or damaging the housing. But here’s the good news: removing an Arlo camera battery is simpler than you think—if you know the right steps.
Whether you’re replacing a dead battery, upgrading to a higher-capacity one, or just doing routine maintenance, this guide walks you through how to remove Arlo camera battery in 5 easy steps—safely, efficiently, and without stress.
And don’t worry: no technical jargon, no confusing diagrams. Just real talk from someone who’s done this a dozen times (and learned from every mistake).
What You Need
Before we dive in, let’s gather your toolkit. Nothing fancy—just a few everyday items you probably already own.
Visual guide about how to remove arlo camera battery
Image source: getlockers.com
- Small Phillips-head screwdriver (usually #0 or #1 size)
- Plastic pry tool or old credit card (to avoid scratching the housing)
- Microfiber cloth (to keep the lens clean during handling)
- New batteries (optional) – if replacing, use CR123A or rechargeable equivalents (check your model)
- Work gloves (optional) – if your hands are sensitive to cold or you’re working outdoors
- Flashlight (optional) – helpful if your camera is mounted in a dark corner or under eaves
Pro tip: If you’re planning to remove Arlo camera battery frequently (like for recharging), consider getting a spare set. That way, you can swap them out instantly instead of waiting for a charge.
Note: Most Arlo models—including the Pro, Ultra, and Essential series—use similar battery compartments. But always double-check your specific model’s manual for quirks. For example, the Arlo Pro 4 uses a slightly different latch than the Pro 2.
Step-by-Step Guide to How to Remove Arlo Camera Battery in 5 Easy Steps
Step 1: Power Down and Disarm the Camera (Safety First!)
Before touching anything, make sure your Arlo camera is powered down. Even though it runs on batteries, it’s smart to avoid accidental triggers or data loss.
- Open the Arlo app on your phone or tablet.
- Tap the camera you’re working on.
- Select “Settings” > “Camera” > “Power” and choose “Turn Off Camera”.
This doesn’t remove the battery, but it ensures the camera isn’t recording or sending alerts while you’re handling it. Think of it like unplugging a toaster before cleaning it—better safe than sorry.
Now, if your camera is mounted, carefully remove it from the mount using the quick-release lever (usually on the back or bottom). Set it on a clean, flat surface—preferably indoors or under cover if it’s been outside.
Why this matters: Removing the battery while the camera is active can cause a temporary “offline” status in the app. Not dangerous, but your home security might show a brief gap. Avoid that by powering down first.
Step 2: Locate and Open the Battery Compartment
Now comes the fun part: finding the battery door. On most Arlo models, it’s on the back or bottom of the camera, secured with a small screw or latch.
- Flip the camera over and look for a small panel with a screw hole or a tiny notch.
- For models like the Arlo Pro 3 or Pro 4, you’ll see a single screw near the charging port.
- On older models like the Arlo Pro 2, the battery door is on the bottom with a small latch.
Grab your Phillips screwdriver and gently unscrew the single screw (don’t lose it!). If there’s no screw, look for a small indentation—this is a latch you’ll pry open.
Once the screw is out, use your plastic pry tool or credit card to gently lift the edge of the battery compartment door. Work slowly around the edges. You’ll hear a soft “click” when it releases.
Warning: Never use metal tools like knives or flathead screwdrivers to pry. They can scratch the housing, damage the seal, or even short-circuit internal components. Plastic is your friend.
Step 3: Carefully Remove the Old Batteries
With the compartment open, you’ll see the batteries—usually two CR123A lithium cells side by side. They’re held in place by spring-loaded contacts and a small retaining clip.
- Look for the negative (-) and positive (+) terminals marked on the battery tray.
- Use your fingers to gently lift the batteries out. Start from the side opposite the springs (the negative end).
- If they’re stuck, use the plastic pry tool to lift the edge, but avoid pressing too hard on the contacts.
Here’s a personal tip: I once forced a battery out by pushing on the positive end and bent the spring. Took me 20 minutes to bend it back with tweezers. Not fun.
Instead, wiggle the battery gently while pulling upward. The springs are strong, but they’re not meant to be yanked.
Once both batteries are out, place them in a safe spot. If they’re old or leaking, dispose of them properly—lithium batteries shouldn’t go in regular trash.
Pro insight: If you’re using rechargeable batteries (like Arlo’s own or third-party CR123A), check their charge level before reinserting. A partially charged battery might not last as long as a fresh one.
Step 4: Inspect the Compartment and Clean (Optional but Smart)
Before putting anything back, take a quick look inside. This is your chance to spot potential issues.
- Check for corrosion, dust, or moisture on the battery contacts.
- If you see white or green crust (a sign of leaking batteries), clean it with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the inside of the compartment and the rubber seal around the door.
Why do this? A clean compartment ensures good contact between the batteries and the camera. Dust or corrosion can cause power fluctuations, leading to false “low battery” alerts.
I learned this the hard way. My backyard Arlo kept going offline every few days. Turned out, a tiny spider had built a nest in the battery tray. Once I cleaned it out, it ran smoothly for months.
Also, inspect the rubber gasket around the battery door. If it’s cracked or missing, replace it. A damaged seal lets in moisture, which can ruin your camera.
Quick fix: If the gasket is loose, apply a tiny dab of silicone grease (available at hardware stores) to help it stay in place. But don’t overdo it—too much can attract dust.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test the Camera
Now that the old batteries are out and everything’s clean, it’s time to put it back together.
- If you’re installing new batteries, insert them with the positive (+) end facing the spring (the flat end of the battery goes toward the spring).
- Press them in gently until they snap into place.
- Close the battery door and reinsert the screw. Tighten it just enough to hold—don’t over-tighten, or you might strip the plastic.
- If your model uses a latch, press it firmly until it clicks.
Now, reattach the camera to its mount (if it was removed) and power it back on via the app.
Wait 30–60 seconds for the camera to reconnect to your Wi-Fi. You should see a green light or a notification in the Arlo app saying “Camera Online.”
Take a quick test recording or live view to make sure everything’s working. If the camera stays online and the battery level shows correctly, you’re golden.
Final check: If the camera doesn’t turn on, double-check the battery orientation. It’s easy to flip them accidentally—especially in low light.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
After years of tinkering with Arlo cameras, I’ve picked up a few tricks—and made plenty of blunders. Here’s what I wish I knew earlier.
Use the Right Batteries
Not all CR123A batteries are created equal. Cheap off-brand ones might fit, but they often die faster or cause voltage drops. Stick with reputable brands like Panasonic, Energizer, or Arlo’s own rechargeable pack.
And if you’re using rechargeables, make sure they’re protected lithium-ion cells. Unprotected ones can overheat or swell—bad news for your camera’s internals.
Label Your Batteries
If you’re using multiple sets, label them with tape or a marker. I use “A” and “B” sets so I know which ones are fresh and which need charging. Saves time during swaps.
Work in a Clean, Dry Area
Never remove the battery outdoors in the rain or on a dusty patio. Moisture and debris can get trapped inside. I always bring my camera indoors or work under a covered porch.
Don’t Rush the Prying
One of my biggest mistakes? Using too much force to open the battery door. I cracked the plastic on an Arlo Pro 3 and had to buy a replacement housing ($40!). Take your time. Gentle pressure wins.
Check the App for Battery Health
The Arlo app shows your battery percentage, but it doesn’t always tell you if the cells are degrading. If a fully charged battery only lasts a week, it might be time to upgrade to higher-capacity cells (like 1600mAh instead of 1500mAh).
Store Spare Batteries Properly
If you keep extras, store them in a cool, dry place—not in the garage or near a window. Heat and humidity shorten battery life.
Know Your Model’s Quirks
Some Arlo cameras have tiny differences:
- Arlo Pro 4: Battery door is on the back with a screw. The seal is thicker than older models.
- Arlo Essential: Uses a single battery, but the compartment is deeper—don’t force the battery in.
- Arlo Ultra: Has a built-in rechargeable battery, but you can still replace it if it fails.
Always check your manual or Arlo’s support site for model-specific details.
Remember: The key to mastering how to remove Arlo camera battery in 5 easy steps is patience. It’s not a race. Take your time, and you’ll avoid costly mistakes.
FAQs About How to Remove Arlo Camera Battery in 5 Easy Steps
Q: Can I remove the Arlo battery while the camera is still mounted?
Technically, yes—but I don’t recommend it. Working at an awkward angle increases the risk of dropping the camera or scratching it. Plus, you’ll have less space to maneuver. Unmount it first, even if it’s just for a minute.
Q: What if the battery door won’t open?
Don’t panic. First, double-check that you’ve removed the screw (if there is one). If it’s a latch, try pressing the camera’s body gently while prying—sometimes the seal sticks. If it’s still stuck, contact Arlo support. Forcing it can damage the housing.
Q: Are rechargeable batteries worth it?
Absolutely. I switched to Arlo’s rechargeable pack and saved over $100 in two years. Just remember: rechargeables last about 20% shorter per charge than lithium disposables, but the cost savings add up. Plus, they’re better for the environment.
Q: How often should I replace the batteries?
It depends on usage. In high-traffic areas (like a front door), batteries last 3–4 months. In low-traffic spots, they can last 6+ months. The Arlo app will send alerts when the battery drops below 20%, but I recommend checking every 2 months for peace of mind.
Q: Can I use AA or AAA batteries instead?
Nope. Arlo cameras are designed for CR123A batteries (3V, non-rechargeable) or specific rechargeable packs. Using AA/AAA batteries (1.5V) won’t provide enough voltage and can damage the camera. Stick to the right type.
Q: What if my camera stops working after battery removal?
First, check the battery orientation. If that’s fine, restart the camera via the app. If it still won’t turn on, the contacts might be dirty or the batteries might be low. Clean the contacts and try fresh batteries. If the issue persists, contact Arlo support—it could be a hardware problem.
Q: Is it safe to remove the battery in cold weather?
Yes, but be careful. Lithium batteries perform poorly in freezing temps. If your camera is outdoors, bring it inside for 10–15 minutes before opening the compartment. Cold plastic can become brittle and crack more easily.
Final Thoughts
Removing an Arlo camera battery isn’t rocket science—but it’s easy to mess up if you rush or ignore the details. By following these 5 easy steps, you’ll keep your camera running smoothly, save money on replacements, and avoid the frustration of a dead battery at the worst possible moment.
Remember: slow and steady wins the race. Power down first, use the right tools, clean the contacts, and test everything before walking away.
And if you’re doing this regularly, consider investing in a second battery set. That way, you can swap and recharge without missing a beat.
Now that you know how to remove Arlo camera battery in 5 easy steps, you’re ready to take control of your home security. No more waiting for replacements. No more surprise outages. Just reliable, always-on protection.
Got a tip of your own? Share it in the comments. I’d love to hear how you keep your Arlo cameras powered up—and what tricks you’ve learned along the way.
Until next time, stay charged and stay safe.
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