Changing the ringer on your Ring Doorbell is simple and can be done using the Ring app or by adjusting settings on your physical chime. This guide walks you through every step, whether you’re using a Ring Chime, Chime Pro, or a third-party mechanical doorbell.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app to customize your doorbell sound: You can select from multiple built-in tones or upload custom sounds directly from your phone.
- Adjust volume and melody on Ring Chime devices: The Ring Chime and Chime Pro allow you to change the sound, volume, and even add festive themes.
- Mechanical doorbells require wiring checks: If using a traditional chime, ensure your Ring Doorbell is properly wired and compatible.
- Test after every change: Always press the doorbell button to confirm the new ringer works correctly.
- Update your Ring app regularly: Software updates often include new ringer options and bug fixes.
- Troubleshoot connectivity issues first: If the ringer won’t change, check Wi-Fi, power, and device sync status.
- Custom sounds require specific file formats: Only MP3 or M4A files under 10 seconds work for custom ringtones.
How to Change Ringer on Ring Doorbell: A Complete Guide
So, you’ve installed your Ring Doorbell and it’s working great—except every time someone rings it, that default “ding-dong” makes you jump. Or maybe you just want something more fun, like a classic Westminster chime or even your dog barking. Good news: changing the ringer on your Ring Doorbell is easier than you think. Whether you’re using a Ring Chime, a Ring Chime Pro, or a traditional mechanical doorbell, this guide will walk you through every step to personalize your doorbell sound.
In this comprehensive how-to, you’ll learn how to:
– Change the ringer using the Ring app
– Adjust settings on Ring Chime and Chime Pro devices
– Work with mechanical doorbells and compatibility
– Upload custom sounds
– Troubleshoot common issues
Let’s get started!
Understanding Your Ring Doorbell Setup
Before you change the ringer, it’s important to understand how your Ring Doorbell connects to your home’s audio system. Ring Doorbells don’t make sound on their own—they send a signal to a chime or speaker that plays the actual ring.
There are three main setups:
- Ring Chime or Chime Pro: A wireless plug-in device that plays the doorbell sound. It connects to your Wi-Fi and syncs with your Ring Doorbell.
- Mechanical Doorbell Chime: A traditional wired chime inside your wall that rings when the doorbell button is pressed.
- Ring Doorbell with Echo Device: If you have an Amazon Echo, you can use it as a chime through the Ring app.
Knowing which setup you have will help you choose the right method to change the ringer.
Changing the Ringer Using the Ring App
The easiest and most flexible way to change your Ring Doorbell ringer is through the Ring app. This method works for all Ring Doorbells paired with a Ring Chime, Chime Pro, or Echo device.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account linked to your Ring Doorbell.
Visual guide about How to Change Ringer on Ring Doorbell
Image source: i.ytimg.com
Step 2: Select Your Device
Tap on the Devices tab at the bottom of the screen. Then, select your Ring Doorbell from the list.
Step 3: Go to Chime Settings
Scroll down and tap on Chime Settings. If you’re using a Ring Chime or Chime Pro, this section will show options for sound, volume, and more.
Step 4: Choose a New Ringer Sound
Tap on Sound or Melody. You’ll see a list of built-in ringtones, such as:
- Classic Ding Dong
- Westminster Chime
- Fog Horn
- School Bell
- Door Knock
- Holiday themes (seasonal)
Tap on any sound to preview it. Once you find one you like, select it and tap Save.
Step 5: Adjust Volume (Optional)
While in Chime Settings, you can also adjust the volume. Slide the volume bar to your preferred level. We recommend setting it high enough to hear from anywhere in your home, but not so loud it’s startling.
Step 6: Test the New Ringer
Press the doorbell button to test the new sound. If you don’t hear it, check your Wi-Fi connection and make sure the Chime is plugged in and online.
Using Ring Chime or Chime Pro to Change the Ringer
If you have a Ring Chime or Chime Pro, you can also change the ringer directly from the device—no phone needed.
Step 1: Locate the Chime Device
Find your Ring Chime or Chime Pro plugged into an outlet near your front door or in a central location.
Step 2: Press the Action Button
On the side of the Chime, press and hold the Action Button (the circular button with a ring icon) for about 3 seconds.
Step 3: Listen for the Sound Menu
The Chime will play a series of tones. Each tone represents a different ringer option. Keep holding the button until you hear the sound you want.
Step 4: Release to Select
Once you hear your preferred sound, release the button. The Chime will play the selected tone twice to confirm your choice.
Step 5: Test the Doorbell
Press your Ring Doorbell button to make sure the new ringer plays correctly.
Pro Tip: The Chime Pro also acts as a Wi-Fi extender, so placing it between your router and doorbell can improve signal strength.
Changing the Ringer on a Mechanical Doorbell
If you’re using a traditional mechanical doorbell chime (the kind with two metal bars that strike when powered), your options are more limited—but still possible.
Step 1: Check Compatibility
Most Ring Doorbells (like the Ring Video Doorbell 2, 3, 4, or Pro) are designed to work with mechanical chimes. However, some older or low-voltage systems may not be compatible. Check the Ring compatibility tool on their website if you’re unsure.
Step 2: Ensure Proper Wiring
Your Ring Doorbell must be wired correctly to trigger the mechanical chime. If the chime doesn’t ring at all, the issue might be wiring, not the sound.
- Turn off power at the breaker before checking wires.
- Make sure the transformer provides 8–24 volts AC.
- Confirm the doorbell wires are securely connected to the terminals.
Step 3: Understand Sound Limitations
Mechanical chimes have fixed sounds—usually a “ding” and “dong.” You can’t change the melody through the Ring app. However, you can:
- Replace the entire chime unit with a different model (e.g., one with a Westminster sound).
- Install a Ring Chime alongside your mechanical chime for customizable sounds.
Step 4: Use a Ring Chime for Custom Sounds
Even if you have a mechanical chime, you can plug in a Ring Chime in another room (like the kitchen or bedroom) to play a different sound. This way, you get both the traditional chime and a modern tone.
Uploading Custom Ringtones
Want to play “Here Comes the Bride” when your mother-in-law visits? Or maybe a clip from your favorite movie? Ring allows custom ringtones—with a few rules.
Step 1: Prepare Your Audio File
Your custom sound must meet these requirements:
- File format: MP3 or M4A
- Duration: 10 seconds or less
- Size: Under 1 MB
- Clear audio with no background noise
Use a free audio editor like Audacity or GarageBand to trim and convert your file.
Step 2: Save the File to Your Phone
Save the edited file to your phone’s music library or files app. Make sure it’s easily accessible.
Step 3: Open the Ring App
Go to Devices > select your Ring Doorbell > Chime Settings > Sound.
Step 4: Select “Custom Sound”
Tap on Custom Sound at the bottom of the sound list. Then tap Choose File or Browse.
Step 5: Pick Your Audio File
Navigate to your saved audio file and select it. The app will upload and process the sound.
Step 6: Save and Test
Once uploaded, tap Save. Press your doorbell button to test the new custom ringer.
Note: Custom sounds only work with Ring Chime or Chime Pro. They won’t play on mechanical chimes.
Using an Amazon Echo as a Doorbell Chime
If you have an Amazon Echo (like an Echo Dot or Echo Show), you can use it to play your doorbell sound.
Step 1: Enable the Ring Skill
Open the Alexa app, go to Skills & Games, search for “Ring,” and enable the Ring skill. Link your Ring account.
Step 2: Set Up Announcements
In the Ring app, go to Devices > your doorbell > Chime Settings > Echo Devices. Toggle on the Echo you want to use.
Step 3: Choose a Sound
You can select from Ring’s built-in tones or use Alexa’s default notification sound. Unfortunately, custom sounds aren’t supported on Echo devices yet.
Step 4: Test the Setup
Press your doorbell button. Your Echo should announce, “Someone is at the front door,” followed by the selected tone.
Troubleshooting Common Ringer Issues
Sometimes, changing the ringer doesn’t work as expected. Here’s how to fix the most common problems.
Issue: No Sound After Changing Ringer
Solution: Check if your Ring Chime is online. Open the Ring app, go to Devices, and see if the Chime shows a green dot (online) or red dot (offline). If offline, unplug and replug it, or move it closer to your router.
Issue: Sound Plays but Is Too Quiet
Solution: Increase the volume in the Ring app under Chime Settings. Also, make sure the Chime isn’t blocked by furniture or inside a cabinet.
Issue: Custom Sound Won’t Upload
Solution: Double-check the file format and size. Convert the file to MP3 using a tool like Online Audio Converter. Ensure your phone has enough storage and a stable internet connection.
Issue: Mechanical Chime Doesn’t Ring
Solution: Verify wiring and voltage. Use a multimeter to test the transformer. If the voltage is too low, replace the transformer. Also, ensure your Ring model supports mechanical chimes (most do, but Ring Doorbell Elite requires professional installation).
Issue: Delay Between Press and Sound
Solution: This is usually a Wi-Fi issue. Move your router closer, use a Wi-Fi extender, or upgrade to a Ring Chime Pro for better range.
Tips for the Best Ringer Experience
- Use multiple Chimes: Place a Ring Chime in the bedroom, kitchen, and garage so you never miss a visitor.
- Seasonal themes: Ring adds holiday sounds (like jingle bells or spooky tones) during special times of year. Check the app in December or October for new options.
- Volume by time of day: While Ring doesn’t support automatic volume scheduling yet, you can manually lower the volume at night to avoid disturbing sleep.
- Keep firmware updated: Open the Ring app regularly and check for device updates under Device Health.
- Label your Chimes: If you have multiple Chimes, rename them in the app (e.g., “Front Door Chime,” “Back Door Chime”) to avoid confusion.
Conclusion
Changing the ringer on your Ring Doorbell is a simple way to personalize your smart home and make your doorbell truly yours. Whether you prefer a classic chime, a funny sound effect, or a custom recording, the Ring app and compatible devices make it easy to switch things up.
Remember:
– Use the Ring app for the most control
– Ring Chime and Chime Pro offer the best sound customization
– Mechanical chimes have fixed sounds but can be supplemented
– Always test after making changes
– Troubleshoot connectivity and power issues first
With this guide, you’re ready to say goodbye to boring doorbell sounds and hello to a more fun, functional entryway. So go ahead—pick your favorite tone, upload that goofy sound, and enjoy the little joys of smart home living.