How to Change the Ring Doorbell

Optional but Helpful Items

• Ring Chime or Chime Pro: If your existing doorbell chime isn’t compatible with Ring, or if you want louder alerts.
• Mounting bracket (if not included): Some models come with universal brackets, but you may need a specific one for angled surfaces.
• Wire nuts: For securing wire connections if you’re splicing or extending wires.
• Ladder: If your doorbell is mounted high, use a stable ladder—safety is key.

Check Your New Ring Doorbell Model

Ring offers several doorbell models, each with slightly different installation requirements. Here’s a quick overview:

• Ring Video Doorbell (battery): Easy to install, no wiring needed. Uses a rechargeable battery.
• Ring Video Doorbell Wired: Connects to existing doorbell wires. Requires power from your home’s electrical system.
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro / Pro 2: Wired only, requires a transformer (16–24V AC). Offers advanced features like pre-roll and enhanced motion zones.
• Ring Video Doorbell Elite: Hardwired with Ethernet connection. Best for homes with strong network infrastructure.

Make sure your new model is compatible with your home’s wiring and mounting setup. If you’re unsure, check Ring’s compatibility tool on their website.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Safety is the most important part of changing your Ring Doorbell—especially if you’re dealing with wired models. Electricity and water don’t mix, and even low-voltage doorbell circuits can give a nasty shock.

Locate Your Circuit Breaker

Go to your home’s electrical panel (usually in the basement, garage, or utility closet). Look for the breaker labeled “Doorbell,” “Chime,” or something similar. If it’s not labeled, you may need to test breakers one by one.

Turn Off the Correct Breaker

Switch the breaker to the “OFF” position. To confirm the power is off, use a non-contact voltage tester near the doorbell wires. Touch the tester to the wires—if it beeps or lights up, the power is still on. Try another breaker.

Test the Doorbell

Press your existing doorbell button. If the chime doesn’t sound, the power is likely off. If it still rings, double-check your breaker or consult an electrician.

Pro Tip: Take a photo of your breaker panel before turning anything off. This helps you remember which breaker controls the doorbell.

Step 2: Remove the Old Ring Doorbell

Now that the power is off, it’s time to remove the old unit.

Unscrew the Faceplate

Use your Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws on the front of the doorbell. Most Ring models have two screws at the bottom. Gently pull the faceplate away from the wall.

Disconnect the Wires

You’ll see two wires connected to the back of the doorbell (usually labeled “Front” and “Trans”). These are low-voltage wires that carry power from your transformer.

Carefully loosen the terminal screws and pull the wires free. If the wires are tight, wiggle them gently while pulling.

Important: Don’t let the wires fall back into the wall. Use electrical tape to tape them to the wall or hold them with a clip.

Remove the Mounting Bracket

If you’re replacing the doorbell with a different model, you may need to remove the old mounting bracket. Unscrew it from the wall using your screwdriver.

If the new Ring Doorbell uses the same bracket (check the manual), you can leave it in place.

Inspect the Wiring

Take a moment to check the condition of the wires. Are they frayed? Too short? Corroded? If so, you may need to strip fresh ends or extend the wires.

Use wire strippers to remove about 1/2 inch of insulation from each wire end. This ensures a clean connection.

Step 3: Prepare for the New Installation

Before installing the new doorbell, make sure the area is ready.

Clean the Mounting Surface

Wipe down the wall or doorframe where the doorbell will go. Remove dust, dirt, or old adhesive. A clean surface helps the new bracket adhere better.

Check Wire Length and Position

Ensure the wires reach the new mounting location. If they’re too short, you may need to extend them using wire nuts and additional low-voltage wire.

Also, confirm the wires are positioned where the new doorbell’s terminals will be. You don’t want to stretch or strain the connections.

Choose the Right Mounting Bracket

Ring Doorbells come with different brackets for flat, angled, or recessed surfaces. Choose the one that best fits your wall.

If you’re mounting on brick or concrete, you may need to drill pilot holes and use wall anchors.

Use a Level

Place a level on the bracket to ensure it’s straight. A crooked doorbell looks unprofessional and can affect the camera’s field of view.

Step 4: Install the New Ring Doorbell

Now for the fun part—installing your new smart doorbell!

Attach the Mounting Bracket

Hold the bracket against the wall, aligning it with the wires. Use your level to make sure it’s straight.

Mark the screw holes with a pencil, then drill pilot holes if needed. Secure the bracket with screws.

Connect the Wires

Thread the wires through the bracket and into the doorbell housing.

Loosen the terminal screws on the back of the new Ring Doorbell. Insert the wires into the appropriate terminals (usually “Front” and “Trans”). Tighten the screws securely.

Note: The polarity doesn’t matter for Ring Doorbells—you can connect the wires either way.

Attach the Doorbell to the Bracket

Slide the new Ring Doorbell onto the bracket until it clicks into place. Some models have a security screw at the bottom to prevent theft—don’t forget to tighten it!

Secure the Faceplate

If your model has a separate faceplate, snap or screw it on. Make sure it’s flush with the wall.

Step 5: Turn the Power Back On

Once the doorbell is securely mounted and wired, it’s time to restore power.

Go back to your circuit breaker and flip the doorbell breaker to the “ON” position.

Wait about 30 seconds for the system to power up.

Check for Lights

Most Ring Doorbells have an LED light that indicates power. For example:

• Solid blue: Device is powered and ready to connect.
• Blinking blue: Ready for setup in the app.
• Solid white: Firmware update in progress.

If the light doesn’t turn on, double-check your wiring and breaker.

Step 6: Set Up the Ring Doorbell in the App

Now it’s time to connect your new doorbell to your Wi-Fi and customize settings.

Open the Ring App

Download the Ring app from the App Store or Google Play if you don’t already have it. Log in with your Ring account.

Tap “Set Up a Device”

Select “Doorbells” and choose your model from the list.

Scan the QR Code

Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell or in the app. This links the device to your account.

Connect to Wi-Fi

Follow the prompts to connect your doorbell to your home Wi-Fi network. Enter your password when prompted.

Tip: Use a 2.4 GHz network for best compatibility. Most Ring Doorbells don’t support 5 GHz.

Name Your Doorbell

Give your doorbell a name, like “Front Door” or “Back Porch,” so you can identify it easily.

Adjust Settings

Customize motion zones, alerts, video quality, and recording preferences. You can also enable features like:

• Motion Alerts: Get notifications when motion is detected.
• Live View: See who’s at the door in real time.
• Two-Way Talk: Speak to visitors remotely.
• Pre-Roll (Pro models): See a few seconds of video before motion was detected.

Test the Chime

Press the doorbell button. Your indoor chime should ring. If it doesn’t, check compatibility or consider adding a Ring Chime.

Step 7: Test Everything

Before calling the job done, test all features to ensure everything works.

Test Video and Audio

Open the Ring app and tap “Live View.” Check that the video is clear and the audio is working.

Test Motion Detection

Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion. You should receive a notification and see a recording in the app.

Test Two-Way Talk

Speak through the app and listen for your voice on the doorbell’s speaker.

Check Night Vision

Turn off the lights and check if the infrared night vision activates. You should still see a clear image.

Verify Chime Sound

If you have a mechanical chime, make sure it rings. If not, the Ring app will notify you—consider adding a Ring Chime for louder alerts.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful installation, problems can arise. Here’s how to fix the most common issues.

Doorbell Won’t Power On

• Check the breaker—make sure it’s on.
• Test the voltage at the doorbell wires with a multimeter. You should see 16–24V AC for wired models.
• Ensure wires are securely connected and not touching each other.
• If using a battery model, charge the battery fully before installation.

No Video or Poor Video Quality

• Check Wi-Fi signal strength. Move your router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
• Ensure the camera lens is clean—wipe it with a soft cloth.
• Update the Ring app and doorbell firmware.
• Adjust video quality settings in the app (higher quality uses more bandwidth).

Motion Alerts Not Working

• Check motion zones in the app—make sure they cover the desired area.
• Ensure motion sensitivity is set appropriately (too low = missed alerts).
• Clean the motion sensor (usually near the camera).
• Verify the doorbell is not facing direct sunlight or heat sources, which can cause false triggers.

Chime Not Ringing

• Confirm your mechanical chime is compatible with Ring (check Ring’s compatibility list).
• If incompatible, install a Ring Chime or Chime Pro.
• Check wiring connections at the chime unit inside your home.

App Not Connecting to Doorbell

• Restart your phone and the doorbell (remove and reinsert battery or power cycle).
• Forget the Wi-Fi network on your phone and reconnect.
• Ensure your phone and doorbell are on the same Wi-Fi network.
• Reset the doorbell by holding the setup button for 20 seconds.

Tips for a Smooth Installation

Here are some expert tips to make changing your Ring Doorbell even easier:

• Take photos during removal: Snap pictures of the wiring and mounting setup before disconnecting anything. This helps if you need to reinstall or troubleshoot later.
• Label the wires: Use tape to label “Front” and “Trans” wires so you don’t mix them up.
• Use a doorbell transformer checker: If your doorbell isn’t getting enough power, a transformer checker can help diagnose the issue.
• Install during daylight: Natural light makes it easier to see wires and alignment.
• Keep the old doorbell: Store it in case you need to return or troubleshoot the new one.
• Update firmware regularly: Ring releases updates that improve performance and security. Enable auto-updates in the app.

When to Call a Professional

While most homeowners can change a Ring Doorbell themselves, some situations call for professional help:

• You’re uncomfortable working with electricity.
• The wiring is damaged, outdated, or doesn’t meet voltage requirements.
• You need to install a new transformer or run new wires.
• Your home has complex wiring or multiple chimes.
• You’re mounting on stone, brick, or uneven surfaces and lack the right tools.

If in doubt, consult a licensed electrician. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion

Changing your Ring Doorbell might seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation and step-by-step guidance, it’s a manageable DIY project. Whether you’re upgrading, replacing, or reinstalling, following this guide ensures a safe, successful installation.

Remember to turn off the power, use the right tools, follow the app setup, and test everything thoroughly. And don’t forget to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a working smart doorbell—knowing who’s at your door, even when you’re not home.

With your new Ring Doorbell in place, you’re all set to enhance your home security, stay connected, and make your front door smarter than ever.