How To Fix Chromecast Not Working

Chromecast is Google’s ultra-portable media-streaming device that you can add to any home entertainment system, and simply plug and play to stream content from Netflix, Hulu, or your phone. If it isn’t working, it messes up your viewing party, but you need not worry because there are fixes for that.

How to fix Chromecast not working

Quick fixes

Restart Chromecast device by unplugging it and give it a few minutes before you plug it back in. Let it start up again and try to cast your device. This usually fixes the problem but try others if it doesn’t
Restart your phone or computer
Check your connection and router. Chromecast working on one device doesn’t mean it’s now fixed. Power cycle your router to rule out any issues by unplugging it and plugging it back in after a few minutes, reboot and try to connect again. If your device is behind the TV, it can cause poor connection as it won’t be getting ample juice to stream content.
Connect HDMI extender and separate your Chromecast from the TV. For Chromecast Ultra, you can connect an Ethernet cable to the power brick
Update Chrome browser if you cast from your computer. A newer version of Chrome may be available so not updating may cause Chromecast not to work or prevent cast button from displaying on different sites. Go to Chrome>More>Update Google Chrome>Relaunch

Factory reset your Chromecast

Unlike resetting Chrome, a factory reset on Chromecast won’t cause any loss in data, but you’ll be required to set up Chromecast all over again. To do this:

Don’t unplug Chromecast
Hold down the button at the back for about half a minute
The TV screen will be blank and the reset will start. Once complete, set up all over again. You can use a different device other than the phone or computer you used previously just to rule out any issues related to devices

What to do when Chromecast turns off or blacks out

If the device suddenly goes off, periodically blacks out, or reboots frequently, it could be a power supply issue. The device is usually powered by a USB cable, which if plugged into the TV can cause power issues more than saving on cables.

Why this happens is because the power supply to the USB ports is cut short if you turn your television off, so Chromecast restarts each time your TV is off. If your TV set is the cheaper type, the USB ports may be unstable or poorly configured.

Unplug the USB cable from the TV and plug into the wall charger to resolve this problem, or if you don’t have a wall charger, you can buy one or try an old phone charger.

Elsier Otachi

Elsier is an avid tech writer, who loves mobile apps, games, music, and cars. When she’s not catching up on the latest in tech, she’s binging on reruns of her favorite series.