Roku streaming devices may have different errors at the software level or when playing content from streaming platforms. Some of these common problems are: black or frozen screens, unexpected restarts, inability to open apps, overheating, etc.
If you have a Roku device at home and want to be prepared for any eventuality, or you have suffered a setback and cannot use it normally, in this article you will find what you can do in each of the scenarios in which a problem occurs. This will solve the problem correctly and your Roku device will function normally again.
Solution to the most common Roku errors
– Black or frozen screen: If your computer is not updated to its latest version, the operating system may not function as intended, causing slowdowns, freezes, and platform crashes (in other words, a completely black screen).
The solution in this case is to update the device: go to “Settings” and choose “System”, press “System Update” and tap “Check now”. If an update is enabled, it will be installed.
– Fixed or flashing red light on the front: If the Roku device is in an enclosed space or in a hot area, it may have overheating problems. To know if the device is hot, look for a red light on the front.
If you see the red light come on and stay steady, this means there is excess heat. Here you just have to turn off the device and let it sit for at least 15 minutes for the temperature to drop.
On the other hand, if you see the red light flashing, what is happening is that the Roku is running out of power, you will need to plug it into the outlet.
– Apps that do not open: Apps update automatically on Roku, which means that if the device is in use while this process is carried out, it could become saturated and cause platform failures, such as slowdowns, frozen apps, etc.
In this case, a simple reboot will be enough to restore normal operation of the equipment. By rebooting, you get rid of any failed processes by the operating system. Go to “Settings,” enter “System,” choose “Power,” and tap “Reboot system.”
– Choppy audio: First check the HDMI input of the Roku and the TV, if the cable is connected incorrectly, the sound will not be clear. If the issue doesn’t resolve, do the following: Press the Home button on your Roku Remote, go to “Settings,” and tap “Audio.” Choose the “Digital Output Format” option and adjust the settings to stereo if the output is HDMI.
This process serves to configure the HDMI output as the main channel for transmitting audio, which will help fix any interference.
– Video errors: When the Internet connection is slow or the signal is weak, the Roku device will not be able to play the content in the expected quality and may also stop streaming.
To find out if the device is correctly receiving the Wi-Fi signal, go to “Settings” – “Network” – “Check connection”. There you will see the status of the network, if it is average or bad, you must better arrange your home router so that the Wi-Fi reaches with more intensity.
– Collapsed platform: It is normal that excess saved data and downloaded applications on your Roku cause the device’s operating system to crash after a while.
In this scenario, a factory reset could be the answer. With this procedure, the Roku will return to its default settings and all data accumulated over months or years will be erased.
The step by step to reset is as follows: touch the home button, go to “Settings”, choose “System” and enter “Advanced system settings”. Choose “Factory reset” and press “Factory reset all”.
– The remote does not work: If you lose the remote’s pairing with the Roku, perform a simple reset on the remote: remove the batteries from the remote, unplug the Roku, wait ten seconds, and plug it back in. Now, put the batteries in the controller and wait 30 seconds to a minute for the controller to pair with your Roku again.