Why Do I Have to Keep Unplugging My Firestick? (Fix Guide)

Why do I have to keep unplugging my Firestick? In this article, let’s look at the different reasons.

Many users face this annoying problem. In this article, we will explain why this happens, the causes, and how you can fix it.

The primary reason why you need to unplug your Firestick is when it starts overheating. Issues with the connection whether its HDMI cables or the WiFi can cause issues where unplugging it is the quickest solution.

Let’s take a closer look!

Fixing Why Do I Have to Keep Unplugging My Firestick Issue

There are instances when it encounters technical glitches and performance issues that stop it from functioning properly.

If you get these errors, you must unplug your Firestick so it resets and makes it work again.

#1: Firestick Is Overheating

One of the most common reasons why you need to unplug your Firestick is overheating problems.

It heats up enough, affecting how it works by shutting down unexpectedly or rebooting. Leaving it on will surely damage your Firestivk and shorten its lifespan.

If your Firestick is overheating, here’s what you should do:

1. Turn off your Firestick and TV.
2. Unplug it from the TV.
3. Unplug your Firestick from the power source.
4. Allow it to cool down for 10 minutes.
5. Examine for signs of damage like burning, melting, or cracking.
6. If there are no signs of damage plug it in and see if it works normally.

You can prevent it from overheating by using an HDMI extender cable to create distance between it and your TV for better ventilation. You also want to use the original power cable and adapter.

If you continue to experience issues with your Firestick, proceed to the other steps below.

#2: Problem With the Power Source

Another cause why your Firestick needs to be unplugged is that it’s not getting enough power.

An issue with the power source, such as the adapter, can cause inconsistent power delivery.

To resolve this problem, you need to follow these steps:

1. Unplug your Firestick from the power source.
2. Check the cables and adapter for signs of damage.
3. If there is damage, replace them with new ones.
4. Plug your Firestick to a different power outlet.

Note: Plug your Firestick directly into a wall outlet and avoid using a power strip for better power delivery.

#3: Software Updates and Glitches

There are instances when your Firestick will experience software issues and glitches.

Sometimes software updates can cause issues when they’re not installed properly.

Although these can be random occurrences, they can cause freezes and crashes.

Here’s how you resolve when you suspect this is the cause:

1. Open your Firestick’s Settings.
2. Go to the My Fire TV option.
3. Select About.
4. Choose Check for Updates.
5. If there’s one available, update your Firestick.

If this step does not solve the issue, you want to perform a force restart by unplugging your Firestick while it’s turned on and plugging it again after 30 seconds.

Note: Ensure your internet connection is stable and reliable before updating your Firestick.

#4: WiFi Connectivity Issues

If your Firestick is suffering from connectivity problems, it will cause it to lag or buffer. If it loses its connection, you will have difficulty getting it back.

Here’s what you need to do to fix it:

1. Go to your Firestick’s Settings.
2. Select Network.
3. Choose your WiFi connection.
4. Check your signal strength.

Select Forget on the Network options and reconnect to the WiFi if your signal strength is high.

If your Firestick says it has low signal strength, you need to improve it by moving it closer to your router and keeping it away from interference sources.

#5: App Compatibility and Memory Usage

App compatibility issues occur when your apps don’t work with your Firestick’s current software. You will need to unplug it to flush its memory so it works as expected.

To deal with this problem and fix it, here’s what you need to do:

1. Update your Firestick to the latest version.
2. Go to your Firestick’s Settings.
3. Select My Fire TV.
4. Choose Restart.

You also want to ensure that all the apps installed on your Firestick are updated so they work properly.

Pro Tip: Uninstall any apps that you're not using to prevent overloading its memory usage.

#6: HDMI Port and Cable Issues

If your Firestick is having problems with its HDMI port and cables, it can cause it not to display pictures correctly.

Your sound is also affected as it can be distorted. This can affect your experience, and you don’t want to unplug your Firestick as it can be inconvenient repeatedly.

Here’s how you can resolve it:

1. Go to your Firestick’s Settings.
2. Select the Display and Sounds option.
3. Choose Display.
4. Select Video Resolution.
5. Toggle each resolution option to see which one works.

Note: Inspect the HDMI connections of your Firestick and ensure that both ends are connected firmly and securely.

To prevent this from happening in the first place, use the original HDMI cable from the box or get a replacement from Amazon. If the issue persists, proceed to the next solution.

#7: Issues With the Remote Control

There are instances when you will need to unplug your Firestick if it’s experiencing remote control problems.

This can cause your remote to stop responding, and you’ll need to restart it to get it working again.

Here’s what you can do to fix this problem:

1. Open the Settings on your Firestick.
2. Select Controllers and Bluetooth Devices.
3. Go to Amazon Fire TV Remotes.
4. Choose your remote from the list.
5. Select Update Remote.

You also need to perform a hard restart by pressing the Home button, holding it for 10 seconds, and waiting for your remote to pair with your Firestick.

Tip: Check if your remote is low on batteries and replace them.

#8: Factory Reset as a Last Resort

If you continue to experience issues that require you to unplug your Firestick, we recommend resetting it to factory settings.

Doing this will remove corrupted firmware, settings, and data, which can cause this issue.

1. Go to your Firestick Settings.
2. Select the My Fire TV option.
3. Choose Reset to Factory Defaults.
4. Wait for the process to complete and your Firestick to reboot.

Note: After a reset, you need to set it up again, as your settings will be removed.

Other Solutions to Prevent Unplugging Your Firestick All the Time

#9: Clear the App Cache and Data

Your Firestick will not work properly if too much data is saved in your apps and device storage.

It can cause storage issues that can result in malfunctions requiring you to unplug it to fix it.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Open your Firestick’s Settings.
2. Go to Applications.
3. Select Manage Installed Applications.
4. Choose an app.
5. Select Clear Cache, then Clear Data.

Note: Do this for all apps that are installed on your Firestick.

#10: Adjust Settings for Best Performance

If your Firestick runs mismatched settings with your TV, it can malfunction and stop working correctly.

Your device’s performance, such as its resolution and display mode, must match your TV’s features.

Here’s how to change it:

1. Open your Firestick’s Settings.
2. Select the Display and Sounds option.
3. Go to Display.
4. Set Video Resolution to Auto.
5. Set Match Original Framerate to On.
6. Set Color Depth to 8 bits.
7. Set Color Format to Auto.
8. Set Calibrate Display to No Scale.

What You Need to Know About Unplugging Your Firestick

If I Unplug My Firestick Will I Lose Everything

Fortunately, even if you keep unplugging your Firestick, you will not lose your settings and data.

These are stored online with your Amazon account, so they will be there once you plug it back in and turn it on. 

If I Unplug My Firestick Will It Reset

No, your Firestick won’t reset whenever you unplug it. The only thing that happens is it will shut down and fix minor issues.

The only way to reset your device is by specifically choosing it via its settings.

Quick Recap

Now that we know why do I have to keep unplugging my Firestick, you want to prevent issues like overheating and problems with its software so they don’t ruin your watching experience.

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