Arlo Essentials Wifi Camera weird crackling noise

[zahoward]

Spoiler

Spoiler

I'm on my second of these cameras (first one replaced by Arlo). Both have had some weird crackling noise in the audio (recorded or live). Over the past few months, this camera couldn't stand the outside heat which makes no sense because I have a few gen2 wireless Arlo cameras less than 20 feet from this one. It also started rapidly draining the battery, so I just had to take it down.

I've been emailing back and forth with support for over a year, with this latest camera for well over a month. They offer ZERO help. Their script is to ask you to conduct troubleshooting steps, each email takes the better part of a week to get a response to. There's no continuity, so you'll get a different support rep asking you to do the same steps over and over. I asked for a manager to call which also took a week to get a response to, when that call came in he told me they are aware of "an issue" and are working to resolve the issue, but would not say what the issue was or when it would be resolved. Weeks later, there's been zero progress.

At this point I'm just trying to get a refund, but this company is non-responsive. If you do get a response, it's nonsense, I'm pasting the latest one below. After this much difficulty and time, I'll never buy a product again from this company. The app doesn't work well either.

"Case Number: 43585077

 Inquiry: Ticking/cracking sound from the camera

 Good day, We hope you are doing well. 

 My Name is Thejus. I am sending this Email on behalf of Arlo Support. This email is to notify you that you have recently contacted Arlo for support regarding the Ticking/cracking sound from the camera issue.

 Thanks for your response and my sincere apologies for the trouble caused, I could see that you are facing an issue with the cracking sound. Thank you for the confirmation you will receive the call.

 Regarding this case status: Open

(Kindly reach us back within 7 days to avoid the case being auto-closure)

Use the above case number for further reference, for other available support you can visit support.arlo.com for self-help support or please visit our support page below.

Thank you for choosing Arlo. 

Best regards,

Thejus

Arlo support"

[JamesC]

zahoward,

After reviewing your open support ticket it appears an RMA has been initiated for your camera. Please refer to your open support ticket for additional status updates.

JamesC