Installing the chimes with your Ring Doorbell ensures you never miss a visitor. This guide walks you through setup, wiring, app configuration, and troubleshooting—so your home stays secure and connected.
Key Takeaways
- Chimes enhance your Ring Doorbell experience: They provide an audible alert inside your home when someone presses the doorbell, even if your phone is on silent.
- Two types of chimes are available: The Ring Chime (Wi-Fi connected) and Ring Chime Pro (extends Wi-Fi and boosts signal for your doorbell).
- No rewiring needed for most setups: If you already have a wired doorbell, the Ring Chime connects easily to your existing chime box.
- App setup is simple and intuitive: The Ring app guides you through pairing your chime with your doorbell in minutes.
- Placement matters for best performance: Install your chime in a central location, away from interference, for optimal sound and connectivity.
- Troubleshooting is straightforward: Common issues like no sound or poor connection can usually be fixed with a few quick steps.
- You can customize chime sounds: Choose from multiple tones and adjust volume directly in the Ring app.
How to Install the Chimes with My Ring Doorbell
If you’ve recently installed a Ring Doorbell, you’re already one step closer to a smarter, safer home. But did you know you can enhance your experience even further by adding a Ring Chime? Whether you’re near your front door or in the backyard, the chime ensures you never miss a delivery, visitor, or package thief. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about installing the chimes with your Ring Doorbell—from choosing the right model to final setup and troubleshooting.
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand how to connect your Ring Chime to your existing doorbell wiring, pair it with your Ring Doorbell via the app, and customize your alerts to suit your lifestyle. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a DIY pro, this step-by-step tutorial makes the process simple, safe, and stress-free.
Why Add a Chime to Your Ring Doorbell?
Visual guide about How to Install the Chimes with My Ring Doorbell
Image source: storage.googleapis.com
Before we dive into the installation, let’s talk about why adding a chime is such a smart move. Your Ring Doorbell sends notifications to your smartphone when someone rings the bell or triggers motion detection. That’s great—unless your phone is on silent, in another room, or out of battery.
That’s where the Ring Chime comes in. It plugs into any standard electrical outlet and plays a customizable sound whenever your doorbell is pressed. Think of it as a traditional doorbell chime, but smarter. You can choose different tones, adjust the volume, and even sync multiple chimes throughout your home.
There are two main models: the Ring Chime and the Ring Chime Pro. The standard Chime is perfect for most homes, while the Chime Pro doubles as a Wi-Fi extender, boosting your Ring Doorbell’s signal if it’s far from your router. If your doorbell frequently disconnects or has weak signal strength, the Chime Pro is a game-changer.
What You’ll Need
Before starting the installation, gather these items:
- Ring Doorbell (already installed and connected to Wi-Fi)
- Ring Chime or Ring Chime Pro
- Smartphone or tablet with the Ring app installed
- Wi-Fi network name and password
- Phillips-head screwdriver (for accessing your existing chime box, if needed)
- Electrical tape (optional, for securing wires)
- Voltage tester (optional, for safety)
Most of these items you probably already have. The only purchase required is the Ring Chime or Chime Pro, which you can buy directly from Ring’s website or major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or Home Depot.
Step 1: Choose the Right Chime for Your Home
Not all chimes are created equal. Your choice depends on your home setup and needs.
Ring Chime (Standard Model)
The standard Ring Chime is ideal if:
- Your Ring Doorbell is already getting a strong Wi-Fi signal
- You want a simple, plug-and-play solution
- You don’t need to extend your Wi-Fi range
This model plugs directly into an electrical outlet and connects to your home Wi-Fi. It’s compact, affordable, and works seamlessly with all Ring Doorbells.
Ring Chime Pro
The Ring Chime Pro is a better fit if:
- Your Ring Doorbell is far from your router
- You experience frequent disconnections or weak signal
- You want to improve overall Wi-Fi coverage in your entryway
The Chime Pro includes a built-in Wi-Fi extender that boosts your network signal. It also has a louder speaker and more chime options. Plus, it can be wired directly into your existing doorbell circuit for a cleaner look.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re unsure, ask yourself: “Does my Ring Doorbell stay connected reliably?” If yes, go with the standard Chime. If not, the Chime Pro is worth the extra cost for the added stability and range.
Step 2: Prepare Your Existing Doorbell System
If your home already has a wired doorbell, you’ll need to access the chime box inside your home. This is usually located in a basement, closet, or utility room. Here’s how to safely prepare:
Turn Off Power at the Breaker
Safety first! Before touching any wires, turn off the power to your doorbell at the main electrical panel. Use a voltage tester to confirm the power is off. This prevents shocks or short circuits.
Remove the Old Chime Cover
Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the cover of your existing mechanical or digital chime. You’ll see two wires connected to terminals labeled “Front” and “Trans” (or similar). These wires carry low-voltage current from your doorbell button to the chime.
Label the Wires (Optional but Helpful)
If you’re installing a Ring Chime Pro (which replaces your old chime), label the wires with tape so you know which is which. This makes reconnection easier.
Disconnect the Wires
Loosen the terminal screws and gently pull the wires free. If you’re using the standard Ring Chime, you can leave the old chime in place—it just won’t be used. The Ring Chime Pro, however, replaces the old unit entirely.
Step 3: Install the Ring Chime (Standard Model)
The standard Ring Chime is the easiest to install. No wiring required—just plug it in and connect via the app.
Plug in the Chime
Find a nearby electrical outlet, ideally in a central location like a hallway or living room. Plug in the Ring Chime. The LED light on the front will flash white, indicating it’s in setup mode.
Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the same account used for your Ring Doorbell.
Start the Setup Process
Tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top-left corner, then select “Set Up a Device.” Choose “Chime” from the list. The app will search for your device.
Connect to Wi-Fi
Follow the on-screen prompts to connect the Chime to your home Wi-Fi network. You’ll need to enter your Wi-Fi password. The Chime uses 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only, so make sure your network supports it.
Name Your Chime
Give your chime a name, like “Front Door Chime” or “Living Room Chime.” This helps if you plan to add multiple chimes later.
Test the Sound
Once connected, the app will play a test tone. Adjust the volume using the slider in the app. You can also choose from several chime sounds, like “Classic,” “Wind Chime,” or “Ding Dong.”
Finalize Setup
Tap “Done” to complete the setup. Your Ring Chime is now active and will ring whenever your doorbell is pressed.
Step 4: Install the Ring Chime Pro (Wired Setup)
The Ring Chime Pro offers more features but requires a bit more work. It can be installed in two ways: plugged in (like the standard Chime) or wired directly into your doorbell circuit. We’ll cover the wired method for a cleaner, permanent solution.
Mount the Chime Pro
The Chime Pro comes with a mounting bracket. Use the included screws to attach it to the wall near your existing chime box or in a central location. Make sure it’s within reach of your doorbell wires.
Connect the Wires
Take the two wires you disconnected earlier (from the “Front” and “Trans” terminals). Strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from the ends if needed. Insert them into the corresponding terminals on the Chime Pro: “Front” and “Transformer.” Tighten the screws to secure.
Secure the Unit
Slide the Chime Pro onto the mounting bracket until it clicks into place. Make sure it’s level and secure.
Restore Power
Go back to your breaker panel and turn the power back on. The Chime Pro should power up, and the LED will flash white.
Set Up via the Ring App
Open the Ring app and follow the same steps as the standard Chime: “Set Up a Device” > “Chime Pro” > connect to Wi-Fi > name your device > test sound.
Enable Wi-Fi Extender Mode
One of the Chime Pro’s best features is its Wi-Fi extender. In the app, go to Device Settings > Chime Pro > Extender Settings. Toggle on “Extend Wi-Fi.” The Chime Pro will now boost your network signal for your Ring Doorbell and other devices.
Step 5: Pair the Chime with Your Ring Doorbell
Once your chime is installed and connected to Wi-Fi, it needs to “talk” to your Ring Doorbell. This happens automatically in most cases, but here’s how to ensure a smooth pairing:
Check Device Linking in the App
In the Ring app, go to the menu > select your Ring Doorbell > Device Settings > Linked Chimes. Your new chime should appear in the list. If not, tap “Add Chime” and follow the prompts.
Test the Connection
Press your Ring Doorbell button. The chime should play the selected tone. If it doesn’t, check the following:
- Is the chime powered on?
- Is it connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your doorbell?
- Is the volume turned up in the app?
Adjust Chime Settings
You can customize your chime experience in the app:
- Volume: Set from silent to loud (great for large homes or hearing-impaired users)
- Chime Sound: Choose from 15+ tones, including seasonal options
- Do Not Disturb: Schedule quiet hours (e.g., 10 PM to 7 AM)
- Motion Alerts: Decide whether the chime rings for motion or only doorbell presses
Step 6: Optimize Placement for Best Performance
Where you place your chime affects both sound quality and Wi-Fi performance (especially for the Chime Pro).
Choose a Central Location
Place the chime in a hallway, living room, or kitchen—somewhere you’ll hear it from multiple areas. Avoid basements or attics unless necessary.
Avoid Interference
Keep the chime away from:
- Microwaves and cordless phones (they can disrupt Wi-Fi)
- Thick walls or metal objects (they block signal)
- Outlets behind large furniture (limits sound projection)
Use Multiple Chimes for Large Homes
If your home is large or has multiple floors, consider adding a second chime upstairs or in a bedroom. You can link up to 10 chimes to one Ring Doorbell.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful setup, you might run into a few hiccups. Here’s how to fix the most common problems.
Chime Doesn’t Ring
- Check power: Is the chime plugged in? Is the outlet working? Try a different outlet.
- Wi-Fi connection: Ensure the chime is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network. Reconnect via the app if needed.
- Volume settings: Open the Ring app and confirm the volume isn’t muted or too low.
- Linked devices: Verify the chime is linked to your doorbell in the app.
Chime Rings Randomly
This could be due to:
- Motion alerts: If motion alerts are enabled, the chime may ring when someone walks by. Turn off motion chimes in the app.
- Wi-Fi interference: Other devices may cause false triggers. Move the chime away from electronics.
- Faulty doorbell button: If the button is sticking or damaged, it may send repeated signals. Inspect and clean the button.
Weak Wi-Fi Signal (Chime Pro)
If your Ring Doorbell still has connectivity issues:
- Reposition the Chime Pro: Move it closer to your router or the doorbell.
- Update firmware: Ensure both your doorbell and Chime Pro are running the latest software via the app.
- Reduce interference: Turn off unused Wi-Fi devices or switch to a less congested channel.
Chime Sound Is Distorted or Quiet
- Volume too high: Lower the volume in the app to prevent distortion.
- Obstructed speaker: Make sure nothing is blocking the chime’s speaker grille.
- Faulty unit: If the problem persists, contact Ring Support for a replacement.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
To get the most out of your Ring Chime, keep these tips in mind:
- Update the app regularly: Ring frequently releases updates with new features and bug fixes.
- Use Do Not Disturb wisely: Set quiet hours to avoid late-night disruptions, but leave motion alerts on if security is a concern.
- Label your chimes: If you have multiple, name them clearly (e.g., “Front Door,” “Back Door”) to avoid confusion.
- Test monthly: Press your doorbell once a month to ensure everything is working.
- Keep firmware updated: Enable automatic updates in the app settings.
Conclusion
Adding a chime to your Ring Doorbell is one of the easiest and most effective ways to enhance your home security system. Whether you choose the standard Ring Chime for simplicity or the Chime Pro for extended range and reliability, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ll always hear when someone’s at your door.
The installation process is straightforward, even for beginners. With just a few tools and the Ring app, you can have your chime up and running in under 30 minutes. And with customizable sounds, volume control, and smart scheduling, your chime adapts to your lifestyle—not the other way around.
So don’t wait for the next missed delivery or unexpected visitor. Follow this guide, install your Ring Chime today, and turn your smart doorbell into a truly smart home experience.