This guide walks you through how to charge your Ring Doorbell 2020 release with clear, easy-to-follow steps. You’ll learn the best charging practices, troubleshooting tips, and how to maintain battery health for long-term performance.
Key Takeaways
- Use the official Ring USB cable and power adapter: Third-party chargers may damage the battery or void your warranty.
- Charge only when the battery is below 20%: Frequent full discharges can shorten battery lifespan over time.
- Remove the doorbell from its mount before charging: This ensures safe and easy access to the charging port.
- Allow 4–6 hours for a full charge: Rushing the process with fast chargers can overheat the battery.
- Reinstall securely after charging: Make sure the doorbell clicks into place to maintain weather resistance.
- Monitor battery health in the Ring app: Check for firmware updates and battery status regularly.
- Avoid extreme temperatures during charging: Charge indoors between 32°F and 104°F (0°C and 40°C) for best results.
How to Charge Ring Doorbell 2020 Release: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve recently installed your Ring Doorbell 2020 release or noticed it’s running low on battery, you’re in the right place. Charging your Ring Doorbell is simple, but doing it correctly ensures long-term performance and safety. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step—from removing the device to reattaching it after a full charge. You’ll also learn best practices, troubleshooting tips, and how to keep your doorbell running smoothly all year long.
Whether you’re a first-time Ring user or just need a refresher, this guide covers everything you need to know about charging your Ring Doorbell 2020 model. We’ll keep things clear, friendly, and easy to follow—no tech jargon, just practical advice.
What You’ll Learn
Visual guide about How to Charge Ring Doorbell 2020 Release
Image source: img.lazcdn.com
By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to:
- Safely remove your Ring Doorbell 2020 from its mounting bracket
- Charge the battery using the correct equipment
- Monitor charging progress and battery health
- Reinstall the doorbell securely
- Troubleshoot common charging issues
- Extend your battery’s lifespan with smart charging habits
Let’s get started!
Understanding Your Ring Doorbell 2020 Release
Before we dive into charging, it’s helpful to understand how your Ring Doorbell 2020 works. This model—officially called the Ring Video Doorbell 2—uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. Unlike wired doorbells, it operates on battery power, which means you’ll need to charge it periodically.
The battery is designed to last several months under normal use, depending on factors like motion detection frequency, video quality settings, and climate. In colder temperatures, battery life may decrease, so you might need to charge it more often in winter.
The Ring Doorbell 2020 release features a removable battery pack, making it easy to take out and charge indoors. It also has a built-in charging port, so you don’t need to remove the battery every time—just plug in the USB cable directly. However, for safety and convenience, most users prefer removing the entire unit.
Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
To charge your Ring Doorbell 2020, you’ll need the following:
- The Ring Doorbell 2020 unit
- Official Ring USB charging cable (included with purchase)
- USB power adapter (5V/2A recommended; also included)
- A micro-USB cable (if using an alternative power source)
- A small Phillips-head screwdriver (for removing the security screw)
- A clean, dry cloth (optional, for wiping the device)
Important: Always use the official Ring charging accessories. While third-party USB cables and adapters may work, they can cause overheating, slow charging, or even damage the battery. Ring recommends using only their certified equipment to maintain warranty coverage and device safety.
Step 1: Check the Battery Level
Before you start charging, check how much battery is left. This helps you decide whether a quick top-up is enough or if a full charge is needed.
How to Check Battery Level
- Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Tap the Devices tab at the bottom of the screen.
- Select your Ring Doorbell 2020 from the list.
- Look for the battery icon near the top of the screen. It will show a percentage (e.g., 45%) or a visual bar.
If the battery is below 20%, it’s time to charge. Ring recommends charging before the battery drops to 0%, as deep discharges can reduce long-term battery health.
What If the Doorbell Won’t Turn On?
If your doorbell is completely dead and won’t respond, it may have a fully drained battery. In this case, proceed with charging immediately. If it still doesn’t turn on after a few hours, see the troubleshooting section below.
Step 2: Remove the Ring Doorbell from the Mount
To charge safely and comfortably, you’ll need to remove the doorbell from its mounting bracket. This gives you full access to the charging port and prevents accidental damage.
Locate the Security Screw
On the bottom of the Ring Doorbell 2020, you’ll find a small security screw. This screw prevents theft and keeps the doorbell securely attached.
Unscrew the Security Screw
- Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to turn the screw counterclockwise.
- Remove the screw completely and set it aside in a safe place.
Tip: Keep the screw in a small container or magnetic tray so you don’t lose it. You’ll need it to reattach the doorbell later.
Lift the Doorbell Off the Mount
Once the screw is removed:
- Gently lift the top of the doorbell away from the mounting bracket.
- Slide the entire unit upward and out of the bracket.
- Be careful not to pull too hard—there’s a short wire connecting the doorbell to the mounting plate (this is normal).
Note: The wire is designed to disconnect automatically when you lift the doorbell. You don’t need to unplug anything manually.
Handle with Care
Place the doorbell on a clean, flat surface. Avoid dropping it or exposing it to moisture. If the device is dirty, wipe it gently with a dry cloth.
Step 3: Connect the Charging Cable
Now that the doorbell is removed, it’s time to plug it in.
Locate the Charging Port
On the back of the Ring Doorbell 2020, near the bottom, you’ll find a small micro-USB port. This is where you’ll connect the charging cable.
Plug in the USB Cable
- Take the official Ring USB cable.
- Insert the micro-USB end into the charging port on the back of the doorbell.
- Make sure it’s fully seated—there should be a slight click or snug fit.
Connect to a Power Source
- Plug the USB-A end of the cable into the included Ring power adapter.
- Plug the adapter into a wall outlet.
Alternative Power Sources: You can also charge using a computer USB port, power bank, or other 5V/2A USB charger. However, wall outlets provide the most consistent power and fastest charging.
Check the Charging Indicator
When connected correctly, a small LED light on the front of the doorbell will turn solid red. This means charging has begun.
– Solid red: Charging in progress
– Flashing red: Charging error (see troubleshooting)
– No light: Not charging (check connections)
Step 4: Monitor the Charging Process
Charging your Ring Doorbell 2020 takes time—typically 4 to 6 hours for a full charge from empty. Here’s how to monitor progress and ensure everything is working.
How Long Does It Take to Charge?
The charging time depends on:
- The current battery level
- The power source (wall adapter is fastest)
- Ambient temperature (cold slows charging)
On average:
– 0% to 100%: 4–6 hours
– 20% to 100%: 3–4 hours
– Quick top-up (e.g., 50% to 80%): 1–2 hours
Can You Overcharge the Battery?
No. The Ring Doorbell 2020 has built-in battery management that stops charging once the battery reaches 100%. You can leave it plugged in overnight without risk.
Check Charging Status in the App
While the doorbell is charging, you can monitor progress in the Ring app:
- Open the Ring app.
- Go to Devices > your doorbell.
- Look for the battery percentage. It will update in real time.
Note: The app may not show updates if the doorbell is completely offline (e.g., dead battery). Once charging begins and the device powers on, the app will reconnect.
What If the Light Doesn’t Turn On?
If the red LED doesn’t appear:
- Check that the USB cable is fully inserted.
- Try a different outlet or power adapter.
- Test the cable with another device to confirm it works.
- Inspect the charging port for dust or debris.
See the troubleshooting section below for more help.
Step 5: Reinstall the Doorbell After Charging
Once the battery is fully charged (100%), it’s time to put your Ring Doorbell back in place.
Disconnect the Charging Cable
- Unplug the USB cable from the doorbell.
- Gently wiggle it if it feels stuck—don’t force it.
Reattach to the Mounting Bracket
- Hold the doorbell with the Ring logo facing forward.
- Align the bottom of the unit with the mounting bracket.
- Slide the doorbell downward into the bracket until it clicks into place.
- Press firmly to ensure a secure fit.
Reinsert the Security Screw
- Use your Phillips-head screwdriver to reinsert the security screw.
- Tighten it clockwise until snug—don’t overtighten.
Test the Installation
- Open the Ring app and check that the device is online.
- Tap the live view to confirm the camera is working.
- Test the motion detection by walking in front of the doorbell.
Tip: If the app shows “Device Offline,” wait a few minutes. The doorbell may need time to reconnect to Wi-Fi.
Best Practices for Charging Your Ring Doorbell 2020
To get the most out of your battery and extend its lifespan, follow these smart charging habits.
Charge Before It’s Fully Drained
Avoid letting the battery drop to 0% regularly. Lithium-ion batteries last longer when kept between 20% and 80%. Try to charge when the battery hits 20–30%.
Charge Indoors in Moderate Temperatures
Extreme cold or heat can damage the battery. Charge your doorbell indoors where the temperature is between 32°F and 104°F (0°C and 40°C).
Use the Official Charging Kit
Third-party cables and adapters may not meet Ring’s safety standards. Stick with the included USB cable and adapter to avoid overheating or slow charging.
Avoid Fast Chargers
While tempting, fast chargers (like those for smartphones) can overheat the battery. Use a standard 5V/2A adapter for safe, steady charging.
Keep the Charging Port Clean
Dust and debris can block the charging port. Use a dry toothbrush or compressed air to clean it gently every few months.
Update Firmware Regularly
Ring releases updates that improve battery efficiency. Check the app for updates under Device Health > Firmware Version.
Troubleshooting Common Charging Issues
Even with proper care, you might run into charging problems. Here’s how to fix the most common issues.
Issue: Doorbell Won’t Charge
- Check the cable: Try a different USB cable or power source.
- Inspect the port: Look for dirt, bent pins, or damage.
- Test the outlet: Plug in another device to confirm the outlet works.
- Restart the doorbell: Hold the side button for 20 seconds to reset it.
Issue: Battery Drains Too Fast
- Adjust motion settings: Reduce motion zones or sensitivity in the app.
- Lower video quality: Switch from HD to standard definition.
- Check for false alerts: Trees or pets may trigger frequent recordings.
- Update firmware: Outdated software can cause battery drain.
Issue: Doorbell Gets Hot While Charging
- Unplug immediately: Overheating can damage the battery.
- Check the charger: Use only the official Ring adapter.
- Move to a cooler location: Avoid direct sunlight or enclosed spaces.
Issue: App Shows “Low Battery” After Charging
- Wait 10–15 minutes: The app may take time to update.
- Reconnect to Wi-Fi: Poor signal can delay sync.
- Restart the app: Close and reopen the Ring app.
- Recharge fully: The battery may not have reached 100%.
How to Maintain Battery Health Over Time
A well-maintained battery can last 2–3 years before needing replacement. Here’s how to care for it.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Cold weather slows chemical reactions in the battery, reducing capacity. In winter, consider bringing the doorbell inside during severe cold snaps (below 14°F/-10°C).
Don’t Leave It Plugged In Forever
While overcharging isn’t a risk, leaving the doorbell connected to power for weeks can stress the battery. Unplug it once fully charged.
Charge Every 2–3 Months in Storage
If you’re not using the doorbell (e.g., on vacation), charge it to 50% and check every few months.
Replace the Battery When Needed
After 2–3 years, you may notice shorter battery life. Ring sells replacement battery packs (sold separately). Follow the same charging steps with the new battery.
Conclusion
Charging your Ring Doorbell 2020 release is a simple process that takes just a few minutes—but doing it right makes a big difference. By following this guide, you’ll keep your doorbell powered, secure, and ready to protect your home.
Remember to:
- Use the official charging equipment
- Charge before the battery gets too low
- Remove and reinstall the doorbell carefully
- Monitor battery health in the app
- Avoid extreme temperatures
With these tips, your Ring Doorbell will deliver reliable performance for years to come. Stay safe, stay connected, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a fully charged smart doorbell.