Charging your Ring Doorbell Plus is simple but requires the right steps to ensure safety and longevity. This guide walks you through removing the device, connecting the charger, monitoring progress, and reattaching it—plus tips to avoid common mistakes.
Key Takeaways
- Always use the official Ring charger: Third-party cables or adapters may damage the battery or void your warranty.
- Remove the battery before charging: The Ring Doorbell Plus has a removable battery that must be taken out to charge safely.
- Charge in a dry, indoor environment: Never charge the battery outdoors or in wet conditions to prevent electrical hazards.
- Full charge takes 5–8 hours: Plan ahead—charging overnight ensures your doorbell is ready for the next day.
- Check battery health in the Ring app: Monitor performance and get alerts when it’s time to recharge.
- Clean contacts regularly: Dust or debris on battery terminals can interfere with charging—wipe them gently with a dry cloth.
- Use a solar charger for convenience: Consider a Ring Solar Charger to reduce manual charging frequency.
Introduction: Why Charging Your Ring Doorbell Plus Matters
Your Ring Doorbell Plus is more than just a doorbell—it’s your home’s first line of defense against unwanted visitors, package thieves, and unexpected guests. But like any smart device, it needs power to work. When the battery runs low, your doorbell stops recording, sending alerts, or even connecting to Wi-Fi. That’s why knowing how to charge a Ring Doorbell Plus properly is essential for keeping your home secure and your system running smoothly.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through every step of charging your Ring Doorbell Plus—from safely removing the battery to reattaching it and troubleshooting common issues. Whether you’re a first-time Ring user or just need a refresher, this guide will help you maintain your device with confidence. We’ll also share expert tips to extend battery life and avoid common mistakes that can shorten your doorbell’s lifespan.
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to charge your Ring Doorbell Plus the right way, how long it takes, and how to keep it powered for months at a time. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need to Charge Your Ring Doorbell Plus
Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools and equipment. Charging your Ring Doorbell Plus is straightforward, but using the wrong gear can cause problems.
Official Ring Charging Cable
The Ring Doorbell Plus comes with a proprietary micro-USB charging cable. This isn’t your average phone charger—it’s specifically designed for Ring’s rechargeable battery. Using third-party cables might seem convenient, but they can deliver inconsistent power, overheat, or even damage the battery over time. Always use the official Ring cable to ensure safe and efficient charging.
Visual guide about How to Charge a Ring Doorbell Plus
Image source: lifehacker.com
USB Power Adapter
You’ll also need a USB power adapter to plug the charging cable into a wall outlet. Ring recommends using a standard 5V/1A or 5V/2A adapter. Avoid fast-charging adapters (like those used for smartphones), as they can generate excess heat and degrade the battery faster. A basic phone charger or the one that came with your Ring device is perfect.
Clean, Dry Workspace
Find a clean, dry area indoors to charge your battery. Moisture, dust, or extreme temperatures can affect charging performance and safety. A kitchen counter, desk, or nightstand works well. Avoid garages, patios, or basements where humidity or temperature swings are common.
Soft Cloth (Optional)
It’s a good idea to have a soft, dry microfiber cloth on hand. You can use it to gently wipe the battery contacts and the inside of the doorbell before reinserting the battery. This removes dust or debris that might interfere with charging or connectivity.
Ring App on Your Phone
Download the Ring app (available on iOS and Android) if you haven’t already. The app lets you check battery level, receive low-battery alerts, and monitor charging status. It’s also where you’ll manage settings and view footage.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Charge a Ring Doorbell Plus
Now that you’re prepared, let’s go through the charging process step by step. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure a safe and successful charge.
Step 1: Check the Battery Level in the Ring App
Before you start, check how much charge your battery has left. Open the Ring app on your phone and tap on your Ring Doorbell Plus. Look for the battery icon—usually in the top-right corner of the device screen. The app will show a percentage (e.g., 20%) or a visual battery bar.
If the battery is below 20%, it’s time to charge. The app may also send a push notification saying “Low Battery” or “Time to Recharge.” Don’t wait until the doorbell dies completely—charging at 20% helps preserve battery health.
Step 2: Turn Off the Doorbell (Optional but Recommended)
While not strictly necessary, turning off your Ring Doorbell Plus before removing the battery can prevent accidental triggers or false alerts. To do this, open the Ring app, go to Device Settings, and toggle “Motion Detection” and “Live View” to off. This reduces power usage and gives you a cleaner shutdown.
Note: The doorbell will still receive power from the battery until it’s removed, so this step is more about convenience than safety.
Step 3: Remove the Ring Doorbell Plus from the Mount
Now it’s time to take the doorbell off the wall. The Ring Doorbell Plus is secured with a mounting bracket and a security screw at the bottom.
- Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen the security screw at the base of the doorbell. Turn it counterclockwise until it’s loose enough to lift the device.
- Gently pull the doorbell away from the wall. It should slide out of the mounting bracket with a slight upward motion.
- Be careful not to pull too hard—there’s a small wire connecting the doorbell to the mounting plate (for hardwired models). If your model is battery-only, there’s no wire, and you can remove it completely.
Tip: If you have a hardwired Ring Doorbell Plus, the wire provides backup power but doesn’t charge the battery. You still need to remove the battery to charge it properly.
Step 4: Remove the Rechargeable Battery
The Ring Doorbell Plus uses a removable lithium-ion battery pack. Here’s how to take it out:
- Flip the doorbell over so the back is facing up.
- Locate the battery compartment—it’s a rectangular slot on the back, usually marked with a small icon.
- Press the small release button or tab on the side of the compartment. The battery should pop out slightly.
- Gently pull the battery out by the handle or edge. Avoid touching the metal contacts with your fingers—oils from your skin can interfere with charging.
Important: Never force the battery out. If it’s stuck, double-check that the release tab is fully pressed. Forcing it can damage the battery or the doorbell.
Step 5: Connect the Charging Cable
Now that the battery is out, it’s time to plug it in.
- Take the official Ring micro-USB charging cable.
- Insert the micro-USB end into the charging port on the battery. It only fits one way—don’t force it.
- Plug the USB end into your power adapter, then connect the adapter to a wall outlet.
You’ll know the battery is charging when a small LED light on the battery turns red. This light will stay red while charging and turn green when fully charged.
Step 6: Monitor the Charging Process
Charging a Ring Doorbell Plus battery takes between 5 and 8 hours, depending on how depleted it was. Here’s what to expect:
- Red LED: Battery is charging.
- Green LED: Battery is fully charged.
- No light: Check connections—cable may be loose or adapter not powered.
You can leave the battery charging overnight for convenience. The battery has built-in protection to prevent overcharging, so it’s safe to leave it plugged in once full.
Tip: Use this time to clean the battery contacts with a dry cloth. Wipe gently to remove any dust or residue.
Step 7: Reinsert the Battery
Once the LED turns green, it’s time to put the battery back.
- Unplug the charging cable from the battery.
- Align the battery with the compartment on the back of the doorbell.
- Slide it in until it clicks into place. You should feel it lock securely.
- Make sure the battery is fully seated—loose batteries can cause power issues.
Double-check that the battery is inserted correctly. If it’s upside down or misaligned, it won’t make contact and the doorbell won’t turn on.
Step 8: Reattach the Doorbell to the Mount
Now it’s time to put your Ring Doorbell Plus back on the wall.
- Align the doorbell with the mounting bracket on the wall.
- Slide it down into place until it clicks.
- Tighten the security screw at the bottom with your screwdriver. Don’t over-tighten—just snug enough to prevent theft.
Once mounted, the doorbell should power on automatically. You’ll hear a chime or see lights flash, indicating it’s reconnecting to Wi-Fi.
Step 9: Test the Doorbell
Before you walk away, test your doorbell to make sure everything is working.
- Open the Ring app and check the battery level—it should now show 100% or close to it.
- Tap “Live View” to see the camera feed.
- Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion detection.
- Press the doorbell button to test the chime and notification.
If everything works, you’re all set! If not, check the troubleshooting section below.
How Long Does It Take to Charge a Ring Doorbell Plus?
The charging time for a Ring Doorbell Plus battery depends on several factors, including the initial battery level, the power adapter used, and environmental conditions.
On average, a fully depleted battery takes 5 to 8 hours to charge completely. Here’s a breakdown:
- 0% to 50%: ~3 hours
- 50% to 100%: ~2 to 5 hours (slower as it nears full capacity)
Using a higher-quality 2A adapter may reduce charging time slightly, but avoid fast chargers. The battery is designed for steady, safe charging—not speed.
Charging overnight is the most practical approach. Plug it in before bed, and it’ll be ready by morning.
Tips to Extend Battery Life and Reduce Charging Frequency
Charging your Ring Doorbell Plus every few weeks can be a hassle. Here are proven tips to make the battery last longer:
Adjust Motion Sensitivity
High motion sensitivity causes the doorbell to record constantly—even for leaves or shadows. This drains the battery fast. In the Ring app, go to Device Settings > Motion Settings and lower the sensitivity. You can also set motion zones to focus only on your walkway or porch.
Reduce Live View Usage
Opening Live View frequently uses a lot of power. Only use it when necessary. If you check your doorbell often, consider enabling “Snapshot Capture” instead—it takes still images every few minutes without draining the battery.
Enable Smart Alerts
Use the Ring app’s “Smart Alerts” feature to filter out non-human motion. This reduces unnecessary recordings and saves battery. You can also schedule “Do Not Disturb” hours when you don’t need alerts.
Keep the Doorbell Clean
Dirt, spider webs, or snow on the lens or sensors can cause false triggers. Clean the doorbell monthly with a soft cloth and mild cleaner. A clean device works more efficiently.
Use a Solar Charger (Optional Upgrade)
For a hands-off solution, consider the Ring Solar Charger. This accessory attaches to your doorbell and uses sunlight to keep the battery topped up. It’s ideal for sunny climates and reduces manual charging to once or twice a year.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Heat and cold affect battery performance. In winter, batteries drain faster. If possible, install your doorbell in a sheltered area. In summer, avoid direct sunlight on the device.
Troubleshooting Common Charging Issues
Even with proper care, you might run into problems. Here’s how to fix the most common issues.
Battery Won’t Charge
If the LED doesn’t light up when plugged in:
- Check that the charging cable is fully inserted into the battery.
- Try a different USB adapter or wall outlet.
- Test the cable with another device to confirm it works.
- Clean the battery contacts with a dry cloth.
If none of these work, the battery may be faulty. Contact Ring support for a replacement.
Battery Drains Too Fast
If your battery dies in just a few days:
- Check for firmware updates in the Ring app.
- Reduce motion sensitivity and disable unnecessary features.
- Ensure your Wi-Fi signal is strong—weak signals cause the doorbell to work harder.
- Look for firmware bugs—Ring occasionally releases updates to fix battery drain issues.
Doorbell Won’t Turn On After Charging
If the doorbell doesn’t power up after reinserting the battery:
- Make sure the battery is fully charged (green LED).
- Reinsert the battery firmly—listen for a click.
- Check that the security screw isn’t too tight, which can disconnect internal components.
- Reset the doorbell by holding the setup button for 20 seconds.
Charging Cable Gets Hot
A warm cable is normal, but if it’s hot to the touch:
- Unplug it immediately.
- Stop using the cable—it may be damaged.
- Use only the official Ring cable and a compatible adapter.
Conclusion: Keep Your Ring Doorbell Plus Powered and Protected
Charging your Ring Doorbell Plus doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the steps in this guide—using the right cable, charging in a safe environment, and monitoring the process—you can keep your doorbell running smoothly for years. Remember to check the battery regularly, adjust settings to save power, and consider a solar charger for added convenience.
A well-maintained Ring Doorbell Plus means fewer charging sessions, better performance, and more peace of mind. Whether you’re home or away, you’ll always know who’s at your door.
Now that you know how to charge a Ring Doorbell Plus like a pro, share this guide with friends or family who use Ring devices. And if you ever run into issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ring’s customer support or consult the app’s help section.
Stay safe, stay connected, and keep your home secure—one charge at a time.