how to restart alexa after unplugging

If you are searching for how to restart Alexa after unplugging, chances are that you are planning to move the device. 

If you are not planning to move your device, it could be that you have already moved it. In either situation, it is necessary to know how to restart the Alexa echo device.

We have all the details on the steps you should take to restart the Alexa device in the right manner.

To restart Alexa, you must find a power socket that is functioning well. Plug the device back into a power source and wait until the ring lights up to green.

Ideally, the Alexa device should power on automatically after plugging back into a power source.

However, there are a few settings that you must adjust such as location and Wifi settings. Keep on reading to find out more. 

Why Unplug Your Alexa Device?

why unplug your alexa device

Before we answer the question of how do you restart Alexa, we must find out why to unplug it. There are several reasons why you might want to unplug an Alexa device. 

The most common reason is trying to migrate the device to another room. If your echo device is operated in more than one room, you might have to unplug it.

There are many other reasons you might want to unplug your Alexa as follows.

✅ Troubleshooting

Unplugging the device and plugging it back in can help reset the device and resolve any issues it may be having.

✅ Power Outage

If there is a power outage, the Alexa device will not function until it is plugged back in.

✅ Moving the Device

If you are moving the device to a different location, it will need to be unplugged. 

✅ Privacy Concerns

You may choose to unplug your Alexa device when not in use to ensure your privacy.

✅ Updating the device

Unplugging the device is a way to turn off the device completely and complete an update.

It is important to mention that, if the device is being moved you will have a lot more work to do than if the device is not.

If your problem is due to a power outage, you must wait until you have power again to restart your device.

How to Restart Alexa After Unplugging Step by Step

restart alexa after unplugging

There are a few necessary steps you should take to restart Alexa after unplugging.

In some cases, you might need to take steps such as resetting the Wifi connection and strategic positioning.

In others, the steps you take are simple after unplugging Alexa. How to restart will mainly include plugging the device into a power source. 

Below are the steps to take after unplugging your Alexa to get it running again.

Step #1 Plug the Device Back Into a Power Source

plug the device back into a power source

Depending on the reason why your device has been unplugged, you must plug it into a power source. If you are using the Alexa Echo Tap, this step is not necessary.

As a matter of fact, the Echo Tap does not go off by unplugging. However, if you are using the other options, start by plugging it back into the power source.

  1. Locate the Power Cable that came with your Alexa device.
  2. Plug one end of the Power Cable into the power port on the back or bottom of the device.
  3. Plug the other end of the Power Cable into a power outlet.
  4. Make sure the power outlet is working and has power.
  5. Wait for the device to Fully Power on, it may take a minute or two. 
  6. The light ring on the device should Turn On indicating it’s powered on.
plug the other end of the power cable
Note: The location of your Alexa device should be next to a power socket.

If you are relocating the device to a new room, you should make sure you place it close to a power socket.

Step #2 Reconnect the Device to a Wifi

The next step is to ensure that your device is connected to a Wifi. If the device has been moved to a location without a Wifi, you will not be able to use it.

It is also important to note that, if you are changing the Wifi network, the setup must start fresh.

Below are the steps to reconnect your Alexa to a Wifi.

reconnect the device to a wifi

How to reconnect Alexa to Wifi

  1. Open the Alexa app on your mobile device
  2. Tap on the Menu Icon in the top-left corner of the screen.
  3. Select “Devices” from the menu.
  4. Locate the device that you want to connect to Wi-Fi, and tap on it.
  5. On the device settings page, select  “Change Wi-Fi Network” or “Forget this Network“
  6. Select the Wi-Fi network you want to connect to
  7. Enter your Alexa Password if prompted
  8. When connected to the Wi-Fi network, the device status in the Alexa app should show as “Online”
  9. You can now start using your Alexa device
Note: This step is only necessary if you are changing the Wifi connection.

If you are still using the same Wifi, the device will connect automatically.

Step #3 Update the Location of the Device

update the location of the device

If you are unplugging a device to move it to a different room or house, you should be able to update the location.

If you do not update the location your device may not be able to work accordingly.

However, if you will be moving the device to a room within the same apartment you do not need to update the location.

How to update the location of your Alexa device in the Alexa app

  1. Open the Alexa app on your phone.
  2. Tap the Menu in the top-left corner of your screen.
  3. Select “Settings” from the menu.
  4. Tap on the Device that you want to Update the location for.
  5. Scroll down and tap on “Device location“.
  6. Enter the New Location for the device, or use the current location by tapping on the “Use Current Location” button.
  7. Tap on “Save” to update the location of the device.
Note: You must be connected to Wi-Fi to update the location.

Also, some features like weather and news may also be based on the device location settings.

Step #4 Position Your Alexa Device Strategically

position your alexa device strategically

Alexa should be positioned in an open area, away from walls and other obstacles. This is essential to ensure that the device can hear you clearly.

It should also be placed at a height that is comfortable for you to speak to, such as a countertop or a shelf. 

There are several other conditions you should consider while positioning your unplugged device in a new location.

Factors to consider when positioning Alexa

  1. Place the device in an open area
  2. Keep the device at the right height
  3. Avoid placing the device near sources of noise
  4. Keep the device out of direct sunlight
  5. Make sure your device is in close Range of your WiFi network

These factors depend on the type of Alexa device you are using as well.

If you are using a device such as the Alexa Tap that is highly portable, you do not have to worry about all these factors. 

This device can be switched on and off at any location since it uses batteries. More importantly, it does not get affected by unplugging.

Summary

If you are looking for how to restart Alexa after unplugging, you have the steps.

Restarting Alexa is a very straightforward process. All you have to do is plug it back into a power source.

For Alexa devices apart from the Echo Tap, the process is the same. These devices will go on automatically.

When the ring light turns green, the device is ready.

Read Next: Five Common Alexa Wifi Issues (and how to fix them)