How to fix blinking light on Roku remote

There are several levels of frustration one feels when the remote stops working. The Roku remote is no different since, without it, you can’t operate your streaming equipment.

The light blinking on your Roku remote is an indication that something is wrong. If the battery is low, replace them with new ones. Otherwise, paring issues do equally cause the blinking, and you can troubleshoot that by checking if both the hardware and software are well connected. If all fails, a hard reset- disconnecting both the streaming box and remote from power sources- is the route to take. 

What is causing the blinking?

If you see the blinking light on the Roku remote, there could be a couple of things wrong with the equipment that could cause it to malfunction. The color of the lights will let you know what the issue is. Let’s explore.

Green blinking light: When the light is blinking green on your Roku remote, it means the controller isn’t working. For the most part, that happens when the juice on your batteries is running low. You’ll also notice that some functions will be unresponsive, or you’re entirely unable to operate your streaming device. Blocked signals can also cause the light to flash green.

Yellow blinking light: There are two reasons why the remote would blink yellow. It indicates that there’s been a pairing issue between it and the steaming device or that the device itself isn’t powered. You’ll find that if there isn’t enough power to have the equipment running, the Roku remote will note the issue and blink yellow.

How to fix the blinking light

Roku offers two kinds of remotes, and that determines how you go about troubleshooting. We’ll explain each one, sharing how to fix individual issues before branching into more common problems.

Enhanced point-anywhere (EPA) remote

If you have an EPA remote, it means you’re using a more advanced device. The advantages of it are you can make commands to the streaming player, as indicated, anywhere. A quick way of knowing that you have an EPA remote is by opening the battery compartment and checking for a pairing button.

Check HDMI connection: Older versions of some TV sets might have a pairing problem for the HDMI. Also, you can take out the stick and move it to another port as it may work. If there’s an issue, you can use an HDMI extension from Roku, which you can get for free once you produce the remote’s serial number. Once the extension is in place, connect and try again.

Standard infrared (IR) remote

The IR remote is like the standard remote controller where you have to have a direct line of sight to the streaming player for commands to be received. The lack of a pairing button in the battery compartment indicates you have an IR remote. Let’s look at ways to fix the blinking light.

Remove obstructions: If there’s something in between yourself with the remote and the streaming device, the remote won’t work.

Common issues in both EPA and IR remotes

Let’s now look at issues that affect both types of remotes.

Low battery

As mentioned, one of the causes of the green light is when the battery is running low. If it’s been a while, it’s about time you replaced the batteries. To confirm they are out of juice, consider swapping the batteries round to see if you can get the remote to work still before you get a new pair.

Note- If you notice that the remote is in the habit of overheating, then that’s an indication of a leaking battery. Only replace the batteries once the entire remote is cool.

Set up the controller

Before using either Roku remote, they need to be set up; otherwise, you can’t operate them. You can do so using the following steps

– Connect the controller to the internet

– Select Remote Settings after configuring the display type

– The device should automatically determine your TV brand, to which you select Yes. If it doesn’t, you may have to do it manually.

– Select Yes to reconfirm your selection

– Select OK to proceed to Roku shows available.

Note: If the blinking light continues, you can pair the remote again as a connection error might have occurred.

Perform a hard reset

If all fails, it might be time to reboot the streaming equipment. Doing so refreshes the system and clears any bugs. To achieve this:

– Remove the batteries from the remote

– Unplug the streaming player from the power source

– Wait for five minutes or more before plugging back the power cable

– Wait for the Roku home screen to appear on your TV.

– Return the batteries to their compartment

– Wait for the devices to pair

How to fix the blinking light on your Roku remote

Remote type	Causes for blinking light	Action to take
Enhanced point-anywhere (EPA) remote	Pairing issues	– Open the battery compartment -Check if the paring button is on
		Check the HDMI connection: – Switch HDMI ports – Get an HDMI extension
Standard infrared (IR) remote	Obstruction	– Remove anything blocking the direct path from the remote to the streaming box
Both remotes	Low battery	– Change the batteries
	Remote not set up	– Connect to the internet > Remote Settings > Select the TV brand > Select Yes for confirmation > Click OK to access Roku content
	Equipment is frozen	Perform a hard reset by: – Unplug the streaming box from the power socket – Remove the batteries from the Roku remote – Wait 5 minutes – Plug the streaming box back in – Wait for the Roku home screen – Return the batteries

Final thoughts

If all fails, check your internet connection to ascertain the speeds are fast and stable. Otherwise, it might be time to get a new Roku remote if that doesn’t work either. Once you get it, remember to pair it with the streaming player to enjoy the services available.

FAQs

Can I use my phone as a remote control?

Yes, your phone can work as a remote. What you’ll need is to download and install the Roku controller application on your device. Ensure you have stable Wi-Fi for it to work seamlessly.

What other tricks can I use to get the blinking to stop?

Based on some forums, you’re advised to turn off your Wi-Fi during the pairing process. That reduces the interference between the remote and streaming box.