This guide walks you through how to change the cover on Ring Doorbell 2 safely and correctly. You’ll learn the tools needed, step-by-step instructions, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Key Takeaways
- Turn off power first: Always disconnect power at the breaker or remove batteries before removing the cover to prevent electrical shock or damage.
- Handle the cover gently: The Ring Doorbell 2 cover is made of durable but brittle plastic—avoid forcing it to prevent cracks.
- Choose the right replacement: Only use official Ring covers or verified third-party options designed specifically for the Ring Doorbell 2 model.
- Check alignment during reinstallation: Misaligned covers can cause gaps, water ingress, or poor camera visibility—ensure a snug fit.
- Test functionality after reassembly: Always test motion detection, video quality, and Wi-Fi connection once the new cover is installed.
- Keep screws organized: Use a magnetic tray or small container to avoid losing tiny screws during the process.
How to Change the Cover on Ring Doorbell 2: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve got a Ring Doorbell 2, and maybe your current cover is looking a little worse for wear—scratched, faded, or maybe you just want a fresh new look. Changing the cover on your Ring Doorbell 2 is a simple DIY task that doesn’t require professional help. Whether you’re upgrading to a new color, replacing a damaged cover, or just giving your smart doorbell a makeover, this guide will walk you through the entire process safely and efficiently.
In this comprehensive how-to guide, you’ll learn exactly how to change the cover on Ring Doorbell 2 without damaging your device or voiding your warranty. We’ll cover everything from safety precautions and tools needed to step-by-step removal and installation, plus troubleshooting tips and answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll have a sleek, secure, and fully functional Ring Doorbell 2 with a brand-new cover.
Let’s get started!
Why Change the Cover on Your Ring Doorbell 2?
Visual guide about How to Change the Cover on Ring Doorbell 2
Image source: i.ytimg.com
Before diving into the how-to, it’s worth understanding why you might want to change the cover in the first place. The cover on your Ring Doorbell 2 isn’t just for aesthetics—it plays a functional role in protecting internal components from weather, dust, and tampering.
Over time, exposure to sun, rain, snow, and temperature changes can cause the plastic cover to fade, crack, or become brittle. Scratches from cleaning or accidental bumps can also affect visibility, especially if they’re near the camera lens. Additionally, if you’ve recently moved or redecorated your front door area, a new cover color (like black, white, or bronze) can help your doorbell blend in or stand out, depending on your preference.
Some users also change the cover after a break-in attempt or if the security screw has been tampered with. Replacing the cover ensures your device remains secure and tamper-resistant.
Finally, Ring offers a variety of official cover colors, and swapping them out is a quick and affordable way to refresh your home’s exterior without replacing the entire unit.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Using the correct equipment will make the process smoother and reduce the risk of damaging your doorbell.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ring Doorbell 2 (obviously!)
- Replacement cover – Make sure it’s compatible with the Ring Doorbell 2. Official Ring covers are recommended, but some third-party options work if they’re specifically designed for this model.
- Small Phillips-head screwdriver – For removing the mounting screws.
- Ring security screwdriver (or compatible Torx T6 screwdriver) – This is used to remove the security screw on the bottom of the doorbell. If you don’t have the original Ring tool, a standard T6 Torx bit will work.
- Magnetic screw tray or small container – To keep screws from getting lost.
- Soft cloth or microfiber towel – For cleaning the doorbell and cover before reinstallation.
- Optional: Voltage tester – If your doorbell is hardwired, use this to confirm power is off before starting.
Having these tools ready will save you time and frustration. Avoid using excessive force or improvised tools—this can strip screws or crack the plastic.
Safety First: Powering Down Your Ring Doorbell 2
Safety is critical when working with any electronic device, especially one connected to your home’s wiring. The Ring Doorbell 2 can be powered in two ways: by batteries or by hardwiring to your existing doorbell circuit. Depending on your setup, you’ll need to take different steps to ensure the device is safely powered down.
If Your Doorbell Is Battery-Powered
For battery-powered models, the process is simpler. Simply remove the batteries before starting. Here’s how:
- Locate the battery compartment on the back of the doorbell.
- Press the release tab and slide the battery cover off.
- Remove the two rechargeable batteries.
- Store them in a safe place so they don’t get lost or damaged.
Once the batteries are out, the device is completely powered down. You can now proceed with removing the cover.
If Your Doorbell Is Hardwired
Hardwired Ring Doorbell 2 units are connected to your home’s electrical system, so you must turn off the power at the breaker before touching any components. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Go to your home’s electrical panel (breaker box).
- Locate the circuit breaker that controls your doorbell. It’s often labeled “Doorbell,” “Chime,” or something similar. If unsure, turn off the main breaker to be safe.
- Switch the breaker to the “OFF” position.
- Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm that power is off at the doorbell location. Touch the tester to the wires—if it doesn’t beep or light up, power is off.
Important: Never assume the power is off just because the breaker is switched. Always test with a voltage tester to avoid electrical shock.
Once power is confirmed off, you can safely remove the doorbell from the wall.
Step-by-Step: Removing the Old Cover
Now that your Ring Doorbell 2 is safely powered down, it’s time to remove the old cover. Follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging the device.
Step 1: Remove the Doorbell from the Mounting Bracket
The Ring Doorbell 2 attaches to a mounting bracket secured to your wall. To access the cover, you’ll need to detach the doorbell from this bracket.
- Locate the security screw at the bottom of the doorbell. This is a small Torx-style screw that prevents tampering.
- Insert the Ring security screwdriver (or T6 Torx bit) and turn it counterclockwise to loosen and remove the screw.
- Once the screw is removed, gently pull the bottom of the doorbell away from the wall. The top will pivot out, allowing you to lift the entire unit off the bracket.
Tip: Have a friend help hold the doorbell if it’s heavy or awkwardly positioned. You don’t want it to drop and damage the wires or casing.
Step 2: Disconnect the Wires (If Hardwired)
If your doorbell is hardwired, you’ll see two wires connected to the back of the unit. These are typically labeled “Front” and “Trans” or similar.
- Take a photo of the wire connections before disconnecting them. This will help you reconnect them correctly later.
- Gently pull the wire connectors straight out. Do not yank or twist them—this can damage the terminals.
- If the wires are tight, use needle-nose pliers to gently wiggle them loose.
Note: Battery-only models won’t have wires, so you can skip this step.
Step 3: Remove the Old Cover
With the doorbell removed from the wall, you can now access the cover.
- Hold the doorbell firmly in one hand.
- Locate the four small tabs around the edges of the cover. These snap into place and hold the cover securely.
- Gently press inward on each tab while pulling the cover away from the body. Start at one corner and work your way around.
- Once all tabs are released, the cover should come off easily.
Warning: Do not use a knife, screwdriver, or other sharp tool to pry the cover off. This can scratch or crack the plastic and damage the internal components.
If the cover feels stuck, double-check that all tabs are fully released. Sometimes dirt or debris can make the fit tighter—wipe the edges with a soft cloth if needed.
Installing the New Cover
Now that the old cover is off, it’s time to install the new one. This process is essentially the reverse of removal, but with a few important checks to ensure a proper fit.
Step 1: Clean the Doorbell Body
Before attaching the new cover, take a moment to clean the doorbell’s outer surface.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away dust, dirt, or fingerprints.
- If there’s stubborn grime, lightly dampen the cloth with water—never spray liquid directly on the device.
- Make sure the camera lens and motion sensor are clean and unobstructed.
A clean surface ensures the new cover fits snugly and doesn’t trap debris.
Step 2: Align the New Cover
Take your new Ring Doorbell 2 cover and inspect it for any defects or damage. Ensure it’s the correct model and color.
- Hold the cover over the doorbell body, aligning the camera lens, motion sensor, and button with the corresponding openings.
- Check that the screw hole at the bottom lines up with the threaded insert on the doorbell.
- Gently press the cover onto the body, starting at the top and working your way down.
The cover should snap into place with light pressure. You’ll hear a soft click as each tab engages.
Tip: If the cover doesn’t fit easily, don’t force it. Double-check the alignment and make sure you’re using the correct cover for the Ring Doorbell 2 (not the Pro or 3 models).
Step 3: Reattach the Doorbell to the Mounting Bracket
With the new cover securely in place, it’s time to reinstall the doorbell.
- If hardwired, reconnect the two wires to the terminals on the back of the doorbell. Match them to the photo you took earlier.
- Push the doorbell back onto the mounting bracket, starting with the top hook and then pivoting the bottom into place.
- Press firmly until you hear a click, indicating it’s securely attached.
- Reinsert the security screw at the bottom and tighten it with the Torx screwdriver. Do not overtighten—this can strip the screw or crack the plastic.
Step 4: Restore Power
Now that everything is reassembled, restore power to the doorbell.
- Battery models: Reinsert the batteries and close the compartment.
- Hardwired models: Return to the breaker box and turn the power back on.
Wait a few moments for the doorbell to boot up. The LED light on the front should flash, indicating it’s reconnecting to your Wi-Fi network.
Testing Your Ring Doorbell 2 After Cover Replacement
Once power is restored, it’s essential to test your doorbell to ensure everything is working correctly.
Check the Camera and Video Quality
Open the Ring app on your smartphone and view the live feed.
- Make sure the video is clear and not obstructed by the new cover.
- Check for glare, shadows, or blurriness around the edges.
- If the image looks distorted, the cover may not be seated properly—remove and reinstall it.
Test Motion Detection
Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion detection.
- The app should send a notification within a few seconds.
- Review the recorded clip to ensure motion zones are working.
If motion isn’t detected, check the settings in the app and ensure the sensor isn’t blocked.
Verify Wi-Fi Connection
Check the signal strength in the Ring app.
- A strong connection (2-3 bars) means reliable performance.
- If the signal is weak, consider moving your router or using a Wi-Fi extender.
Test the Doorbell Button
Press the doorbell button to ensure it chimes and sends a notification.
- If it doesn’t work, double-check the wiring (for hardwired models) or battery level.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, you might run into a few hiccups. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Problem: The Cover Doesn’t Snap On Properly
Solution: This usually means the cover is misaligned or not designed for the Ring Doorbell 2. Double-check the model number and ensure all four tabs are engaged. If it still won’t fit, the cover may be defective—contact the seller for a replacement.
Problem: Doorbell Won’t Power On
Solution: For battery models, check that the batteries are inserted correctly and charged. For hardwired models, verify the breaker is on and the wires are securely connected. Use a voltage tester to confirm power at the terminals.
Problem: Poor Video Quality or Glare
Solution: This can happen if the cover is loose or not fully seated. Remove and reinstall the cover, ensuring a tight fit. Also, clean the camera lens and avoid installing the doorbell in direct sunlight if possible.
Problem: Motion Detection Not Working
Solution: Check the motion settings in the Ring app. Make sure motion zones are enabled and the sensitivity is set appropriately. Also, ensure the PIR sensor (located near the camera) isn’t blocked by the cover.
Problem: Security Screw Won’t Tighten
Solution: The screw hole may be stripped. Try using a slightly larger screw or applying a small amount of thread locker. If the issue persists, contact Ring support for assistance.
Tips for Maintaining Your Ring Doorbell 2 Cover
To keep your new cover looking great and functioning well, follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean regularly: Wipe the cover with a soft, damp cloth every few weeks to remove dirt and grime.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Use only water or mild soap—never ammonia-based cleaners, which can damage the plastic.
- Inspect for cracks: Check the cover periodically for signs of wear or damage, especially after storms or extreme weather.
- Replace when needed: If the cover becomes cloudy, cracked, or loose, replace it promptly to protect the internal components.
Conclusion
Changing the cover on your Ring Doorbell 2 is a quick and easy way to refresh your smart doorbell’s appearance or replace a damaged part. By following this guide, you’ve learned how to safely remove the old cover, install a new one, and test your device to ensure everything works perfectly.
Remember to always power down your doorbell before starting, use the right tools, and handle the cover gently to avoid damage. Whether you’re switching to a new color or fixing a crack, this simple upgrade can make a big difference in your home’s curb appeal and your doorbell’s performance.
With your new cover securely in place, you can enjoy clear video, reliable motion detection, and peace of mind knowing your Ring Doorbell 2 is protected and looking its best.