Installing a Ring Video Doorbell 2nd Generation is a straightforward way to enhance your home security and convenience. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough on how to physically install your Ring Doorbell, connecting it to your existing doorbell wiring for continuous power. Before you begin the physical installation, it’s recommended to set up your Ring Doorbell in the Ring app. This initial setup will ensure your device is ready to connect to your Wi-Fi network and function correctly once installed.
What’s in the Box: Installation Hardware
Before diving into the installation steps, let’s take a look at the hardware included with your Ring Video Doorbell. Familiarizing yourself with these components will make the installation process smoother.
Step-by-Step Guide to Physically Install Your Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation)
Step 1: Charge the Built-in Battery
Your Ring Video Doorbell 2nd Generation comes with a built-in rechargeable battery. It’s crucial to fully charge this battery before proceeding with the installation.
- Connect the provided orange USB cable to the charging port on the back of the Ring Doorbell and plug the other end into a USB power source.
- Allow the battery to charge until only one LED light is illuminated on the battery pack. This indicates a full charge.
For more detailed information on charging your Ring Doorbell battery, refer to this resource.
Step 2: Complete the Setup Near Your Wi-Fi Router
Before mounting, it’s essential to set up your Ring Doorbell in close proximity to your Wi-Fi router. This ensures a strong initial connection and simplifies the setup process.
- Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Select “Set Up a Device” and then follow the step-by-step instructions provided within the app to connect your Ring Doorbell to your Wi-Fi network.
Step 3: Test Your Ring Doorbell
After the initial setup, test the basic functionality of your Ring Doorbell.
- Press the button on the front of the doorbell.
- Open the Ring app to view the live video feed from your doorbell camera. This confirms that your device is working correctly before you proceed with the physical installation.
Step 4: Determine the Ideal Mounting Height
For optimal performance and field of view, mount your Ring Video Doorbell approximately four feet (1.2 meters) from the ground.
- If your existing doorbell wiring is higher than four feet and you need to adjust the viewing angle, consider purchasing a Wedge Kit from ring.com/accessories. This kit allows you to angle the doorbell downwards for a better perspective.
Step 5: Disconnect Your Existing Doorbell
Safety first! Before working with electrical wiring, ensure the power to your doorbell is turned off.
- Locate your home’s circuit breaker box.
- Turn off the breaker that controls your doorbell. If you’re unsure which breaker it is, you may need to turn off the main breaker or consult with a qualified electrician.
- Once the power is off, carefully remove your existing doorbell button from the wall and disconnect the wires attached to it.
- Verify that your existing doorbell system is compatible with Ring Doorbell, supporting 8 to 24 VAC, 50/60Hz, 5VA to 40VA.
Step 6: Mark the Screw Holes Using the Mounting Bracket
The mounting bracket acts as a template to guide you in marking the locations for the screw holes.
- Hold the mounting bracket against the wall where you intend to install your Ring Doorbell.
- Use a pencil to mark the four corner holes of the bracket on the wall.
Step 7: Install Wall Anchors (Optional but Recommended for Certain Surfaces)
Wall anchors are essential when installing your Ring Doorbell on surfaces like stucco, brick, or concrete. They provide extra support and ensure a secure installation.
- For mounting on masonry surfaces, use the provided wall anchors from Bag A.
- Using the marked holes from the bracket as a guide, drill holes into the wall using a 1/4″ masonry drill bit (not included).
- Insert the wall anchors into the drilled holes.
Step 8: Secure the Mounting Bracket
Now, attach the mounting bracket to the wall.
- If you are connecting to existing doorbell wires, feed these wires through the designated hole in the center of the mounting bracket before securing it to the wall.
- Using the screws from Bag A and a Philips head screwdriver, drive the screws into the marked holes on the wall (or into the wall anchors if you installed them).
- Tighten the screws until the mounting bracket is flush and securely attached to the wall.
Step 9: Connect the Doorbell Wires
Connect the wires from your existing doorbell to the terminals on the back of your Ring Doorbell.
- Attach the wires coming from your wall to the screws located on the back of the Ring Doorbell unit.
- It does not matter which wire connects to which screw, as the order is not polarity-sensitive.
- Important Caution: Ensure you DO NOT connect the Ring Doorbell to a DC transformer, halogen, or lighting transformer, or an intercom system. These are incompatible and can damage your device.
Step 10: Mount the Ring Doorbell onto the Bracket
With the wiring complete, it’s time to attach the Ring Doorbell to the mounting bracket.
- Locate the slot on the rear of your Ring Doorbell.
- Hook this slot onto the tab situated at the top of the mounting bracket.
- Gently pivot the Ring Doorbell downwards until it sits flush against the bracket.
Step 11: Secure the Doorbell with Security Screws
For security and to finalize the installation, use the provided security screws.
- Take the star-shaped end of the included screwdriver.
- Insert and tighten two security screws from Bag B into the bottom of your Ring Doorbell. This secures it to the mounting bracket and deters theft.
Step 12: Restore Power and Test
The final step is to restore power to your doorbell circuit and ensure your Ring Doorbell is functioning correctly.
- Return to your circuit breaker box and turn the doorbell breaker back on.
- Allow a moment for your Ring Doorbell to power up. You will know it’s ready when it illuminates and may provide verbal confirmation.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed your Ring Video Doorbell 2nd Generation. You can now monitor your front door, speak to visitors, and enhance your home’s security.
