Installing a Ring Plus doorbell is simpler than you think. This guide walks you through every step—from checking compatibility to final app setup—so you can enjoy smarter, safer home security in under an hour.
Key Takeaways
- Check compatibility first: Ensure your existing doorbell wiring and transformer meet Ring Plus requirements (16–24V AC) to avoid installation issues.
- Turn off power at the breaker: Safety is critical—always shut off electricity before removing your old doorbell or handling wires.
- Use the Ring app for guided setup: The app provides real-time instructions, video tutorials, and helps connect your device to Wi-Fi seamlessly.
- Mount the doorbell securely: Choose the right angle and height (48 inches from ground) for optimal motion detection and video quality.
- Test after installation: Always test chime functionality, live view, and motion alerts to confirm everything works before finishing.
- Upgrade your chime if needed: Older mechanical chimes may require a Ring Chime Pro or compatible digital chime for reliable operation.
- Keep firmware updated: Regular updates improve performance, security, and add new features—enable auto-updates in the app.
How to Install a Ring Plus Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Upgrading your home with a Ring Plus doorbell is one of the smartest moves you can make for security, convenience, and peace of mind. Whether you’re replacing an old wired doorbell or installing one for the first time, the Ring Plus offers HD video, two-way talk, motion alerts, and seamless integration with other Ring devices. The best part? You don’t need to be a tech expert to get it done.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of installing a Ring Plus doorbell—from checking your home’s compatibility to finalizing the setup in the Ring app. We’ll cover tools you’ll need, safety precautions, wiring tips, mounting techniques, and troubleshooting common issues. By the end, you’ll have a fully functional smart doorbell that keeps you connected to your front door—no matter where you are.
Let’s get started!
What Is the Ring Plus Doorbell?
The Ring Plus doorbell is a premium wired video doorbell that delivers 1080p HD video, advanced motion detection, and crystal-clear two-way audio. Unlike battery-powered models, the Ring Plus connects directly to your home’s existing doorbell wiring, ensuring constant power and reliable performance. It also supports pre-roll video (showing what happened just before motion was detected) and integrates with Amazon Alexa for voice alerts.
Designed for homes with compatible electrical systems, the Ring Plus is ideal for users who want a no-fuss, always-on security solution. It’s weather-resistant, easy to install, and works seamlessly with the Ring app for live viewing, recorded clips, and customizable motion zones.
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need
Before diving into the installation, make sure you have everything you need. Having the right tools and materials on hand will save time and prevent frustration.
Required Tools and Materials
- Ring Plus doorbell (obviously!)
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Drill (optional, for mounting)
- Level (to ensure a straight installation)
- Wire strippers (if reusing old wires)
- Voltage tester (recommended for safety)
- Smartphone or tablet with the Ring app installed
- Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz)
Check Your Doorbell System Compatibility
Not all homes are ready for a Ring Plus doorbell. The device requires a wired connection and a compatible transformer. Here’s how to check:
1. Locate your doorbell transformer. It’s usually found in your basement, garage, or near your electrical panel. Look for a small box with wires leading to your doorbell.
2. Check the voltage. Use a multimeter or voltage tester to measure the voltage across the doorbell wires. The Ring Plus requires 16–24 volts AC. If your system is below 16V, the doorbell may not power on or function properly.
3. Inspect your existing chime. Most mechanical chimes work with Ring Plus, but some older models may cause issues like continuous ringing. If your chime is very old or makes a loud buzzing sound, consider upgrading to a Ring Chime or Chime Pro.
4. Confirm wiring. You need at least two wires connected to your doorbell (typically labeled “Front” and “Trans”). If you only have one wire or no existing wiring, you may need to run new wires or consider a battery-powered Ring model instead.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
Safety first! Working with electrical wiring can be dangerous if the power is still on. Follow these steps to ensure a safe installation.
Locate Your Electrical Panel
Go to your home’s main electrical panel (breaker box). Look for the circuit that controls your doorbell. It’s often labeled “Doorbell,” “Front Door,” or something similar. If you’re unsure, turn off the main breaker to cut power to the entire house—this is the safest option.
Turn Off the Breaker
Flip the breaker switch to the “Off” position. Use a non-contact voltage tester to double-check that power is off at the doorbell location. Touch the tester to the wires—if it doesn’t beep or light up, you’re safe to proceed.
Pro Tip: Place a piece of tape over the breaker switch with a note like “Do Not Turn On – Installing Doorbell.” This prevents someone from accidentally restoring power while you’re working.
Step 2: Remove Your Old Doorbell
Now that the power is off, it’s time to remove your existing doorbell.
Unscrew the Faceplate
Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws holding your old doorbell to the wall. Gently pull the faceplate away from the wall. You should see two wires connected to terminals (usually labeled “Front” and “Trans”).
Disconnect the Wires
Loosen the terminal screws and carefully remove the wires. Don’t let them fall back into the wall—use electrical tape to secure them to the wall or hold them with a clip. Label the wires if needed (e.g., “Front” and “Transformer”) to avoid confusion later.
Remove the Mounting Bracket (if applicable)
Some doorbells come with a mounting bracket. If yours does, unscrew it from the wall. You’ll be replacing it with the Ring mounting bracket, so you can discard the old one.
Step 3: Install the Ring Mounting Bracket
The Ring Plus comes with a specially designed mounting bracket that ensures a secure fit and proper alignment.
Choose the Right Bracket Angle
The Ring Plus includes two mounting brackets: a flat one and a 5-degree angled one. Use the flat bracket if your doorbell is already aligned with your door. Use the angled bracket if you need to tilt the camera slightly toward the walkway for better motion detection.
Position the Bracket
Hold the bracket against the wall where you want to install the doorbell. The ideal height is 48 inches from the ground—this ensures the camera captures faces clearly and avoids obstructions.
Use a level to make sure the bracket is straight. Mark the screw holes with a pencil.
Drill Pilot Holes (if needed)
If you’re mounting into wood or need extra stability, drill small pilot holes at the marked spots. This prevents the screws from splitting the material.
Secure the Bracket
Align the bracket with the pilot holes and screw it into place using the provided screws. Make sure it’s tight and level.
Step 4: Connect the Wires to the Ring Plus
Now it’s time to connect your doorbell wires to the Ring Plus.
Prepare the Wires
If your wires are frayed or too short, use wire strippers to expose about 1/4 inch of fresh copper. This ensures a solid connection.
Attach the Wires to the Ring Plus
The Ring Plus has two terminals on the back: one for each wire. Loosen the terminal screws, insert the wires, and tighten the screws securely. It doesn’t matter which wire goes where—the Ring Plus is non-polarized.
Pro Tip: If your wires are too short or damaged, you can use the included wire extenders. Simply splice them into your existing wires with wire nuts.
Secure the Doorbell to the Bracket
Once the wires are connected, align the Ring Plus with the mounting bracket. Slide it down until it clicks into place. You should hear a satisfying snap—this means it’s securely attached.
Step 5: Restore Power and Test the Doorbell
With the doorbell installed, it’s time to turn the power back on and test the system.
Turn the Breaker Back On
Go to your electrical panel and flip the breaker back to the “On” position. Wait a few seconds for the system to power up.
Check for Power
Look at the Ring Plus. You should see a light ring around the button. If it lights up, the doorbell is receiving power. If not, double-check your wiring and breaker.
Test the Chime
Press the doorbell button. Your indoor chime should ring. If it doesn’t, there may be an issue with your chime or wiring. See the troubleshooting section below.
Step 6: Set Up the Ring App
The Ring app is your control center for the doorbell. It’s where you’ll view live video, receive alerts, and customize settings.
Download the Ring App
If you haven’t already, download the Ring app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Create a Ring account or log in if you already have one.
Add Your Device
Open the app and tap the “+” icon to add a new device. Select “Doorbells” and then “Ring Video Doorbell Plus.”
Scan the QR Code
The app will prompt you to scan the QR code on the back of your Ring Plus. Use your phone’s camera to scan it. This links the device to your account.
Connect to Wi-Fi
Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your doorbell to your home Wi-Fi network. Make sure you’re within range of your router for a strong signal.
Complete the Setup
The app will guide you through naming your doorbell, setting up motion zones, and enabling notifications. You can also link it to Alexa for voice alerts.
Step 7: Adjust Settings and Mounting
Once the app setup is complete, take a moment to fine-tune your installation.
Check the Camera Angle
Open the live view in the app and check the video feed. Make sure it’s capturing the area you want—like your front walkway or driveway. If the angle is off, you can adjust the mounting bracket or use the angled bracket for better coverage.
Set Motion Zones
In the app, go to Device Settings > Motion Settings > Motion Zones. Draw zones to focus on high-traffic areas and ignore motion from trees or passing cars.
Enable Smart Alerts
Customize your notification preferences. You can choose to receive alerts only during certain hours or for specific types of motion (people, packages, etc.).
Test Two-Way Talk
Press the talk button in the app and speak. Ask someone to stand at the door and confirm they can hear you and respond clearly.
Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
Even with careful installation, you might run into a few hiccups. Here’s how to fix the most common problems.
Doorbell Won’t Power On
- Check the breaker—make sure power is restored.
- Verify wire connections—ensure both wires are securely attached.
- Test voltage—use a multimeter to confirm 16–24V at the terminals.
- Try a different transformer—if voltage is too low, upgrade to a 16V or 24V transformer.
Chime Doesn’t Ring
- Check chime compatibility—older mechanical chimes may not work.
- Install a Ring Chime or Chime Pro for reliable sound.
- Ensure wires are connected to the correct terminals on the chime.
Poor Wi-Fi Signal
- Move your router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Switch to the 2.4 GHz band if 5 GHz is too weak.
- Consider the Ring Chime Pro, which also acts as a Wi-Fi extender.
Blurry or Dark Video
- Clean the camera lens with a soft cloth.
- Adjust the mounting angle to avoid direct sunlight or glare.
- Enable night vision in the app settings.
False Motion Alerts
- Refine motion zones to exclude trees or busy streets.
- Lower motion sensitivity in the app.
- Ensure the doorbell is securely mounted—vibrations can trigger false alerts.
Maintenance and Best Practices
To keep your Ring Plus doorbell working flawlessly, follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean the lens monthly: Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust, dirt, or fingerprints.
- Check for firmware updates: Enable auto-updates in the app to get the latest features and security patches.
- Inspect wiring annually: Make sure connections are tight and wires aren’t frayed.
- Test the chime regularly: Press the button weekly to ensure it’s working.
- Review recordings: Periodically check your event history to ensure motion detection is accurate.
Conclusion
Installing a Ring Plus doorbell is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your home’s security. By following this guide, you’ve learned how to check compatibility, safely handle wiring, mount the device, connect it to your app, and troubleshoot common issues. With your new smart doorbell in place, you’ll enjoy real-time alerts, HD video, and two-way communication—all from the convenience of your smartphone.
Remember, the key to a successful installation is preparation and attention to detail. Take your time, follow safety protocols, and don’t hesitate to consult the Ring support team if you run into problems. Once everything is set up, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Welcome to the future of home security—your Ring Plus doorbell is ready to protect your home, one ring at a time.