Why is My Firestick Remote Blinking Orange?
We’ve all been there – sitting on the couch, ready to binge-watch the latest show, only to pick up the Firestick remote and be greeted by that dreaded blinking orange light. You’re not alone! This frustrating issue affects hundreds of Firestick users.
But don’t panic! In this guide, you’ll discover the top reasons why your Firestick remote keeps blinking orange and 6 proven solutions to get it working again.
Why is My Firestick Remote Blinking Orange?
Whether it’s because the batteries are low, there’s interference or any number of other issues, we’ve got you covered. Read on to stop your remote from incessantly blinking at you!
Top 6 Ways to Fix Firestick Remote Blinking Orange [Step-by-Step]
Without further ado, here are the best methods for solving the blinking remote problem once and for all:
#1. Change the Batteries
Let’s start with the basics – dead or dying batteries are one of the most common reasons your Firestick remote starts rapidly blinking orange.
While it seems obvious, checking the batteries isn’t always straightforward. Here’s a quick test:
- Remove the batteries from the remote
- Hold them flat in your palm about 2-3 inches over a hard surface like a table
- Release them so they drop and hit the surface
If the batteries bounce much at all when they hit the table, they’re likely dead or on their way out.
But why does that happen? Batteries contain zinc oxide, a bouncy material that builds up as the battery dies. The more used up it is, the more it bounces!
If you confirm the batteries are low, swap in a fresh pair. This often instantly solves any pairing issues that cause the blinking light.
💡 Pro Tip: Before inserting new batteries, use a dry cloth or tissue to gently clean the battery compartment. This removes any corrosion that could impact connectivity.
#2. Reduce Interference
If new batteries don’t do the trick, next make sure your Firestick isn’t located too close to other electronics or obstructions. This can interfere with the Bluetooth connection between the remote and the device.
Potential sources of interference include:
- Other Bluetooth devices like speakers, headphones, etc.
- Baby monitors
- Microwaves
- Thick walls
- Large metal furniture
- Fish tanks
- And more
Ideally, position your Firestick out in the open, within the 33-foot maximum Bluetooth range.
If you regularly move in and out of range, the constant connecting and disconnecting can also cause the orange blinking light.
Similarly, if you have multiple Firestick devices, ensure the remote isn’t accidentally paired with another one nearby.
#3. Reset Your Remote
Resetting reconnects your remote and Firestick, potentially fixing any glitches that are interfering with normal operation. Here’s what to do:
- Unplug the Firestick and leave it disconnected for 60 seconds
- Press and hold the left navigation button, home button, and back button simultaneously for 15 seconds
- Release the buttons and remove the batteries for one minute
- Insert batteries and plug Firestick back in
- Wait one minute for the device to restart
- Press and hold the home button on the remote for 10 seconds
Once the remote light starts rapidly blinking, it’s trying to repair. If that doesn’t happen right away, hold the home button again.
#4. Check Your Internet Connection
While it uses Bluetooth connectivity, a weak WiFi network can also interfere with the communication between your remote and Firestick.
Luckily, you can easily test Internet speeds:
- On a computer or phone browser, go to Speedtest.net
- Click “Go” to start network test
- Check download/upload results
Consistently slow speeds often indicate connection issues with your router or modem. An easy fix is restarting them:
- Locate and unplug both router and modem
- Leave unplugged for 30 seconds to reset
- Plug the modem back in and wait one minute
- Connect the router and wait two minutes for a full reboot
💡 Pro Tip: Even if speeds appear normal, try rebooting your router/modem anyway. This can fix various performance issues like playback disruptions or video glitching.
If slow speeds persist afterward, contact your Internet provider – you may need to upgrade internet speeds:
- As a rule of thumb, get 25 Mbps per household member
- So 4 people = 100 Mbps minimum
- Upgrading maintains performance as you add devices
#5. Restart Your Firestick
Before moving on to more complex troubleshooting methods, do a simple reboot of the Firestick. Fixes small errors/bugs:
- Press and hold the Select and Play/Pause buttons for 10 seconds
- Alternately, unplug the power cable for 30 seconds
- Device automatically restarts
Allow a few minutes to fully reboot and connect with the remote.
#6. Use the Fire TV App as a Remote
If you still see that pesky blinking orange light, there’s an app for that! The Fire TV app lets you control the Firestick from your smartphone.
To install:
- Open the smartphone app store
- Search “Fire TV”
- Download/install free app
Ensure the phone and Firestick connect to the same WiFi network. Next:
- Turn on TV
- Open the Fire TV app
- Choose your Firestick
- Input code shown on a mobile device
💡 Pro Tip: While using smartphone as remote, check for any available Firestick OS updates. Updates improve performance and fix bugs, including remote pairing issues.
Top 10 Tips to Prevent Remote Pairing Problems
To avoid endless Firestick remote issues in the future, keep these handy maintenance tips in mind:
- Check batteries every few weeks before they die
- Clean battery contacts before inserting new ones
- Keep Firestick centrally located in home entertainment setup
- Position away from potential electrical interference
- Test WiFi speeds regularly
- Reboot router/modem monthly
- Restart Firestick routinely to clear memory
- Install all Firestick updates promptly
- Upgrade internet speeds if needed
- Use the Fire TV mobile app as a backup remote
FAQs About Firestick Remote Blinking Orange
Still, have questions about this troubling issue? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
- Q: Why does my remote keep losing connection to the Firestick?
A: This is typically caused by interference, low batteries, distance/obstructions, software issues, or problems with WiFi network. Easy fixes include changing batteries, reducing signal interference, resetting or updating devices, and switching to Fire TV remote app.
- Q: How do I find the correct remote if I have multiple Firesticks?
A: Press any button and look for the corresponding Firestick to light up. Note remote will automatically connect back to the original pairing after a set period. Manually unpair/repair if needed.
- Q: My remote works sometimes but keeps blinking orange – what gives?
A: Intermittent functionality plus a blinking light usually means moving in and out of the connectivity range. Make sure you stay within 33 feet and avoid obstructions between the remote and Firestick. Upgrading internet speeds also helps maintain a strong and steady connection.
- Q: I replaced the batteries but the orange light won’t stop blinking! Help!
A: Brand-new batteries rule out power issues. The remaining potential causes include interference, software/hardware problems, network connectivity, etc. Work through troubleshooting steps methodically until resolved.
- Q: How do I unpair a Firestick remote?
A: Press the Home + Back buttons for 6 seconds while the remote is close to the Firestick. Light will blink rapidly to indicate unpaired status. Follow the repair process to connect with the correct device.
- Q: Can I use a universal remote instead?
A: Yes, many popular universal remotes work with Firesticks after the manual pairing process. Be aware universal versions may not support voice commands. Check manufacturer guidelines for pairing instructions.
- Q: What causes the batteries to start bouncing in remotes?
A: Internal zinc oxide builds up through battery usage, causing an increased bounce rate proportional to lifespan depletion. More used up = more zinc oxide = more bounce. Replace batteries showing high bounce height.
- Q: Do smart home devices contribute to Firestick remote issues?
A: Yes, smart speakers, lights, and other IoT devices operating on WiFi or Bluetooth definitely can interfere with Firestick connectivity. Limit use or disable temporarily if remote problems arise.
- Q: My neighbor’s baby monitor messes with my remote – help!
A: Baby monitors commonly emit signals causing interference because they operate on various radio frequencies. Try resetting the monitor channel or moving further away from WiFi network equipment.
- Q: What’s the easiest and fastest fix when the remote starts blinking?
A: Outside of physical damage, low/dead batteries cause the majority of Firestick remote issues. Quick battery swap significantly minimizes headaches in most cases. Keep extras handy for convenience.
Also Check:
- Xfinity Remote Flashes Green Then Red
- Amazon Fire Stick Remote Blinking Green And Red Lights
- Philips TV Remote Blinking Orange Multiple Times
Conclusion
While extremely frustrating, a Firestick remote that won’t stop blinking orange is a common problem with several useful solutions.
Start troubleshooting with easy battery replacement and connectivity resets before moving on to advanced fixes.
With this comprehensive guide’s step-by-step instructions for resolving pairing issues, you can finally stop dealing with remote headaches.
Regain control over your Firestick and get back to streaming your favorite shows! Just be sure to implement some preventative best practices going forward to avoid repeating remote headaches.
