Pairing your Arlo doorbell to a chime ensures you never miss a visitor. This guide walks you through setup, troubleshooting, and tips for a seamless connection between your Arlo doorbell and chime device.
Key Takeaways
- Check compatibility first: Not all Arlo doorbells work with every chime model. Verify your devices are compatible before starting.
- Use the Arlo app for setup: The official Arlo app is the easiest and most reliable way to pair your doorbell and chime.
- Ensure strong Wi-Fi signal: A weak connection can prevent pairing. Place your doorbell and chime within range of your router.
- Power both devices properly: Make sure your doorbell has a charged battery or is wired correctly, and the chime is plugged in.
- Follow step-by-step instructions: Rushing can lead to errors. Take your time and follow each step carefully.
- Test after pairing: Always test the chime after setup to confirm it’s working as expected.
- Troubleshoot common issues: If pairing fails, check Wi-Fi, power, and app updates before seeking help.
How to Pair Arlo Doorbell to Chime: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve got your shiny new Arlo doorbell and a compatible Arlo chime—great choice! Now, you’re probably wondering: How do I get these two devices talking to each other? Don’t worry. Pairing your Arlo doorbell to a chime is easier than it sounds, and once it’s done, you’ll enjoy instant audio alerts whenever someone rings your doorbell—even if your phone is on silent or in another room.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of pairing your Arlo doorbell to a chime, from checking compatibility to troubleshooting common issues. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a smart home pro, we’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll have a fully functional doorbell-chime system that keeps you connected and secure.
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
Visual guide about How to Pair Arlo Doorbell to Chime
Image source: images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com
Before diving into the setup, it’s important to make sure you have everything in place. Skipping this step might lead to frustration later, so take a moment to gather the essentials.
Compatible Arlo Doorbell and Chime
First and foremost, confirm that your Arlo doorbell and chime are compatible. Not all models work together, so check the product packaging or Arlo’s official website for compatibility details. For example:
– Arlo Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell works with the Arlo Chime (sold separately).
– Arlo Video Doorbell (wired) also pairs with the Arlo Chime.
– The Arlo Chime 2 is compatible with most newer Arlo doorbells.
If you’re unsure, visit Arlo’s support page or check the model numbers on the back of your devices.
Smartphone with Arlo App Installed
You’ll need a smartphone (iOS or Android) with the latest version of the Arlo app installed. The app is free and available on the App Store and Google Play. It’s the central hub for managing all your Arlo devices, including pairing your doorbell and chime.
Stable Wi-Fi Connection
Both your doorbell and chime rely on Wi-Fi to communicate with each other and the app. Make sure your home Wi-Fi network is stable and strong, especially near the doorbell location. A weak signal can cause pairing failures or delayed alerts.
Power for Both Devices
– If your doorbell is battery-powered, ensure the battery is fully charged.
– If it’s wired, confirm the wiring is secure and the power is on.
– The Arlo Chime must be plugged into a power outlet using the included adapter.
Access to Your Wi-Fi Network Name and Password
During setup, the app will ask for your Wi-Fi credentials. Have your network name (SSID) and password ready.
Step 1: Install and Set Up Your Arlo Doorbell
Before you can pair your doorbell to the chime, you need to make sure the doorbell itself is properly installed and connected to your Arlo account.
Mount the Doorbell
If you haven’t already, install your Arlo doorbell at your desired location. This usually involves:
– Removing your old doorbell (if applicable).
– Mounting the Arlo doorbell bracket using screws.
– Attaching the doorbell to the bracket.
– Connecting wires (for wired models) or inserting the battery (for wire-free models).
Follow the instructions that came with your doorbell for detailed mounting steps.
Download and Open the Arlo App
If you haven’t already, download the Arlo app from your phone’s app store. Open it and log in to your Arlo account. If you don’t have one, tap “Create Account” and follow the prompts.
Add the Doorbell to Your Account
1. Tap the “+” icon in the app.
2. Select “Add Device.”
3. Choose “Doorbell” from the list.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the QR code on your doorbell (usually found on the back or in the battery compartment).
5. The app will guide you through connecting the doorbell to your Wi-Fi network. Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted.
6. Wait for the app to confirm the doorbell is online.
Once your doorbell is successfully added, you’ll see it listed in the app with a green “Online” status.
Step 2: Set Up Your Arlo Chime
Now that your doorbell is ready, it’s time to set up the chime.
Plug in the Chime
Take your Arlo Chime and plug it into a power outlet using the included power adapter. The chime should light up, indicating it’s receiving power.
Add the Chime to the Arlo App
1. In the Arlo app, tap the “+” icon again.
2. Select “Add Device.”
3. Choose “Chime” from the list.
4. The app will search for nearby chimes. Make sure your chime is plugged in and within range of your Wi-Fi.
5. When the chime appears, tap it to add.
6. Follow the prompts to connect the chime to your Wi-Fi network. You’ll need to enter your Wi-Fi password again.
7. Wait for the app to confirm the chime is online.
Once added, the chime will appear in your device list with a green “Online” status.
Step 3: Pair Arlo Doorbell to Chime
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for—pairing your doorbell and chime so they work together.
Open the Arlo App and Select Your Doorbell
1. Go to the home screen of the Arlo app.
2. Tap on your doorbell from the device list.
3. This opens the doorbell’s live view and settings.
Navigate to Chime Settings
1. Tap the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner to access settings.
2. Scroll down and look for “Chime” or “Doorbell Chime” in the menu.
3. Tap on it.
Select Your Chime Device
1. The app will show a list of compatible chimes that are already set up on your account.
2. Tap the name of the chime you want to pair with your doorbell.
3. Confirm the selection.
Test the Connection
After pairing, the app will usually prompt you to test the chime. Tap “Test Chime” or “Ring Now” to see if the chime sounds when the doorbell is pressed.
If the chime rings, congratulations—you’ve successfully paired your Arlo doorbell to your chime!
Step 4: Customize Your Chime Settings
Now that your devices are paired, you can personalize how and when the chime sounds.
Adjust Volume
In the chime settings, you’ll find a volume slider. You can set it to low, medium, or high, depending on your preference. For example, if you have a large house, you might want it louder so you can hear it from the backyard.
Choose a Chime Sound
Some Arlo chimes offer multiple sound options—like a classic doorbell tone, a chime melody, or even a custom sound. Browse the available options and pick one that suits your style.
Set Quiet Hours
If you don’t want the chime to ring during certain times (like late at night), you can set “Quiet Hours.” During this period, the chime won’t sound, but you’ll still receive push notifications on your phone.
To set quiet hours:
1. Go to the chime settings.
2. Tap “Quiet Hours.”
3. Choose the start and end times.
4. Save your changes.
Enable or Disable Chime for Specific Users
If you have multiple users on your Arlo account, you can choose who gets chime alerts. For example, you might want the chime to ring for you but not for your teenager.
1. In the chime settings, look for “User Access” or “Notification Settings.”
2. Toggle the chime on or off for each user.
Troubleshooting Common Pairing Issues
Even with careful setup, things don’t always go smoothly. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Chime Doesn’t Ring When Doorbell Is Pressed
If your chime isn’t sounding, try these steps:
– **Check power:** Make sure the chime is plugged in and the outlet is working. Try a different outlet.
– **Verify pairing:** Go back to the doorbell settings and confirm the chime is still selected.
– **Restart devices:** Unplug the chime for 10 seconds, then plug it back in. Restart your doorbell by removing and reinserting the battery (if wireless) or turning off the power at the breaker (if wired).
– **Re-pair the devices:** Sometimes, re-pairing solves the issue. Remove the chime from the doorbell settings and pair it again.
Weak or Unstable Wi-Fi Connection
A poor Wi-Fi signal is one of the most common causes of pairing problems.
– **Move the chime closer to the router:** If possible, plug the chime into an outlet near your Wi-Fi router.
– **Use a Wi-Fi extender:** If your doorbell or chime is far from the router, consider using a Wi-Fi extender to boost the signal.
– **Check for interference:** Appliances like microwaves or cordless phones can interfere with Wi-Fi. Move the chime away from such devices.
App Shows “Offline” or “Connection Failed”
If your doorbell or chime shows as offline:
– **Update the app:** Make sure you’re using the latest version of the Arlo app.
– **Check for firmware updates:** In the app, go to device settings and look for “Firmware Update.” Install any available updates.
– **Reset the device:** For the chime, unplug it, wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in. For the doorbell, follow the reset instructions in the user manual (usually involves holding a button for 10 seconds).
Chime Rings Randomly or Without Doorbell Press
This could be due to a false trigger or a glitch.
– **Check for motion sensitivity:** If your doorbell has motion detection, it might be triggering the chime. Lower the motion sensitivity in the app.
– **Update firmware:** Outdated firmware can cause erratic behavior. Update both devices.
– **Re-pair the devices:** Sometimes, re-pairing resolves random ringing.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
To get the most out of your Arlo doorbell and chime setup, keep these tips in mind:
Keep Devices Updated
Arlo regularly releases firmware updates to improve performance and fix bugs. Check for updates monthly in the app under device settings.
Use a Dedicated Wi-Fi Network
If you have a lot of smart devices, consider setting up a separate Wi-Fi network (like a guest network) just for your Arlo devices. This reduces congestion and improves reliability.
Test Regularly
Every few weeks, press your doorbell to make sure the chime still works. This helps catch issues early.
Secure Your Account
Use a strong password for your Arlo account and enable two-factor authentication (if available) to protect your privacy.
Consider Multiple Chimes
If you have a large home, you can pair your doorbell to more than one chime. For example, place one in the living room and another in the bedroom. Just repeat the pairing steps for each chime.
Conclusion
Pairing your Arlo doorbell to a chime is a simple process that greatly enhances your home security and convenience. With just a few taps in the Arlo app, you can ensure that you’re always alerted when someone’s at your door—even if your phone is out of reach or on silent.
By following this guide, you’ve learned how to check compatibility, set up both devices, pair them together, customize settings, and troubleshoot common issues. Remember to keep your devices updated, maintain a strong Wi-Fi connection, and test your system regularly.
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ll never miss a visitor again. Your Arlo doorbell and chime are working together like a dream—just like they should.