Charging your Ring Doorbell 2020 is simple and essential for uninterrupted security. This guide walks you through every step—from removing the device to recharging and reinstalling—with clear instructions and expert tips to keep your smart doorbell running smoothly year-round.
Key Takeaways
- Know your model: The Ring Doorbell 2020 (2nd Gen) uses a removable rechargeable battery, making charging easy and convenient.
- Charge every 3–6 months: Depending on usage and climate, most users need to recharge their Ring Doorbell every few months.
- Use the right charger: Always use the included USB cable and a compatible power adapter (5V/2A recommended) for safe, efficient charging.
- Remove the battery properly: Unlock the security screw, slide out the battery, and avoid forcing components to prevent damage.
- Check charging status: The LED light on the battery turns green when fully charged—don’t rely solely on the app.
- Reinstall securely: After charging, reinsert the battery, lock the screw, and test motion and live view to ensure everything works.
- Troubleshoot common issues: If the battery won’t charge or the doorbell won’t turn on, try resetting, checking connections, or contacting Ring support.
How to Charge Ring Doorbell 2020: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Keeping your Ring Doorbell 2020 charged is one of the most important parts of maintaining your home’s smart security system. Whether you’re a first-time user or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through the entire charging process—safely, efficiently, and without frustration. You’ll learn how to remove the battery, charge it properly, reinstall it, and troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll feel confident managing your Ring Doorbell’s power needs like a pro.
The Ring Doorbell 2020 (also known as the 2nd Generation Ring Video Doorbell) is a popular choice for homeowners who want reliable video monitoring, motion alerts, and two-way talk. Unlike wired models, this version runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which means you’ll need to charge it periodically. The good news? It’s designed for easy removal and charging—no tools required beyond the included security screwdriver.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything from how often to charge your doorbell to what to do if it won’t power on after charging. We’ll also share practical tips to extend battery life and keep your doorbell working smoothly through all seasons. Let’s get started!
Why Charging Your Ring Doorbell 2020 Matters
Visual guide about How to Charge Ring Doorbell 2020
Image source: cravingtech.com
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand why charging your Ring Doorbell 2020 is so crucial. A dead battery means no live view, no motion alerts, and no way to see who’s at your door. That defeats the whole purpose of having a smart doorbell!
The Ring Doorbell 2020 uses a 3.7V lithium-ion battery that typically lasts between 3 to 6 months on a single charge. However, this depends on several factors:
– How often motion is detected
– How frequently you use live view
– The climate in your area (cold weather drains batteries faster)
– Whether you have a Ring Chime or Chime Pro connected
If you live in a busy neighborhood or have frequent visitors, your doorbell may drain faster. Similarly, if you check the live feed often or live in a cold climate, you might need to charge it every 2–3 months. Ignoring low battery warnings can lead to unexpected shutdowns, leaving your home unprotected.
Regular charging not only keeps your doorbell functional but also helps maintain battery health over time. Lithium-ion batteries perform best when they’re not fully drained before recharging. So, charging your Ring Doorbell 2020 before it dies completely is a smart habit.
What You’ll Need to Charge Your Ring Doorbell 2020
Charging your Ring Doorbell 2020 is straightforward, but having the right tools on hand makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ring Doorbell 2020 (2nd Gen) – Make sure you have the correct model. The 2020 version has a removable battery, unlike older wired models.
- Rechargeable battery – This comes with your doorbell. If you’ve lost it, you can purchase a replacement from Ring or authorized retailers.
- Micro-USB charging cable – Included in the box. Avoid using damaged or low-quality cables.
- USB power adapter – Use a 5V/2A adapter for faster, safer charging. The one that came with your phone or tablet usually works well.
- Security screwdriver (Torx T6) – Also included. You’ll need this to unlock the battery compartment.
- Optional: Ring Charging Cable (sold separately) – A longer, weather-resistant cable for charging without removing the battery (only works if your doorbell is hardwired).
Having these items ready before you start saves time and prevents frustration. Keep the security screwdriver in a safe place—it’s small and easy to lose!
Step-by-Step: How to Remove the Battery from Your Ring Doorbell 2020
The first step in charging your Ring Doorbell 2020 is removing the battery. Don’t worry—it’s designed to be user-friendly. Follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging your device.
Step 1: Turn Off Live View and Motion Alerts
Before removing the battery, open the Ring app on your phone and turn off live view and motion alerts. This isn’t strictly necessary, but it prevents false notifications while you’re handling the doorbell. It also gives you a clean break from the system.
Step 2: Locate the Security Screw
Look at the bottom of your Ring Doorbell. You’ll see a small security screw holding the faceplate in place. This screw prevents tampering and keeps the battery secure.
Step 3: Unlock the Security Screw
Use the included Torx T6 security screwdriver to turn the screw counterclockwise. It only needs a quarter turn to unlock. Once loose, you can lift the faceplate slightly.
Step 4: Slide Out the Battery
Gently pull the faceplate away from the mounting bracket. You’ll see the battery housed in a plastic tray. Slide the battery straight out—don’t twist or force it. The battery should come out easily with a slight tug.
Step 5: Disconnect the Battery (If Needed)
In most cases, the battery is already disconnected when you remove it. But if you’re replacing it or cleaning the contacts, gently unplug the small connector on the side of the battery. Be careful—this connector is delicate.
Now that the battery is out, you’re ready to charge it. Keep the doorbell faceplate nearby so you don’t lose it.
How to Charge the Ring Doorbell 2020 Battery
Charging the battery is simple, but doing it correctly ensures safety and longevity. Here’s how to charge your Ring Doorbell 2020 battery the right way.
Step 1: Connect the Charging Cable
Take the micro-USB cable and plug the small end into the port on the battery. The port is located on the side of the battery pack. Make sure it’s inserted fully but gently—don’t force it.
Step 2: Plug Into a Power Source
Connect the other end of the cable to a USB power adapter. Then plug the adapter into a wall outlet. Avoid using computers, laptops, or low-power USB hubs—they may charge too slowly or not at all.
For best results, use a 5V/2A adapter. This provides enough power to charge the battery efficiently without overheating. If you’re unsure, check the label on your phone charger—many modern chargers meet this standard.
Step 3: Monitor the Charging Status
Once connected, the LED light on the battery will turn solid red, indicating it’s charging. As the battery fills up, the light will eventually turn green, meaning it’s fully charged. This usually takes 3 to 6 hours, depending on the current charge level.
Don’t rely solely on the Ring app to tell you when it’s done. The app only updates when the doorbell is reconnected. Always check the LED light on the battery itself.
Step 4: Avoid Overcharging
While lithium-ion batteries have built-in protection against overcharging, it’s still a good idea to unplug the battery once it’s fully charged. Leaving it plugged in for extended periods can reduce long-term battery health.
If you’re charging overnight, set a timer or use a smart plug to cut power after 6 hours. Most users charge during the day so they can reinstall the battery right away.
How to Reinstall the Battery in Your Ring Doorbell 2020
Once your battery is fully charged, it’s time to put everything back together. Reinstalling the battery is just as easy as removing it—just follow these steps in reverse.
Step 1: Reconnect the Battery (If Disconnected)
If you unplugged the battery connector earlier, gently plug it back in. Make sure it’s secure but don’t force it. A loose connection can cause power issues.
Step 2: Slide the Battery Back Into the Tray
Hold the battery with the connector facing the correct direction (usually toward the back of the doorbell). Slide it into the plastic tray until it clicks into place. It should fit snugly without resistance.
Step 3: Reattach the Faceplate
Align the faceplate with the mounting bracket and gently press it back into position. Make sure it’s flush and secure.
Step 4: Lock the Security Screw
Use the Torx T6 screwdriver to turn the security screw clockwise until it’s tight. Don’t overtighten—just snug it up to prevent tampering.
Step 5: Test the Doorbell
Open the Ring app and check the device status. You should see the battery level update within a few minutes. Test the live view and motion detection to ensure everything is working.
If the doorbell doesn’t turn on, double-check that the battery is fully seated and the connector is secure. Sometimes a loose connection can prevent power from flowing.
Tips to Extend Your Ring Doorbell 2020 Battery Life
Charging your Ring Doorbell 2020 is important, but you can reduce how often you need to do it with a few smart habits. Here are some practical tips to maximize battery life:
- Adjust motion zones: Limit motion detection to high-traffic areas like your front walkway. Avoid covering driveways or streets where cars and animals trigger false alerts.
- Lower motion sensitivity: In the Ring app, reduce sensitivity to medium or low. This prevents the doorbell from recording every leaf that blows by.
- Use scheduled modes: Set your doorbell to “Do Not Disturb” or “Home” mode during times when you don’t need alerts, like when you’re home all day.
- Enable pre-roll: This feature captures a few seconds before motion is detected, so you don’t miss anything—without needing constant recording.
- Keep firmware updated: Ring regularly releases updates that improve battery efficiency. Make sure your doorbell is running the latest software.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: If possible, install your doorbell in a sheltered location. Cold weather slows chemical reactions in the battery, reducing performance.
- Use a Ring Solar Charger (optional): For a hands-free solution, consider the Ring Solar Charger. It attaches to your doorbell and uses sunlight to keep the battery topped up.
These small changes can add weeks—or even months—to your battery life. Over time, they’ll save you time and keep your doorbell running reliably.
Troubleshooting Common Charging Issues
Even with proper care, you might run into problems when charging your Ring Doorbell 2020. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.
Battery Won’t Charge
If the LED light doesn’t turn red when you plug in the cable, check the following:
– Is the cable damaged? Look for frayed wires or bent connectors.
– Is the power adapter working? Try plugging it into another device.
– Is the battery completely dead? Sometimes a deeply drained battery needs a few minutes to “wake up” before charging begins.
If none of these work, try a different cable or adapter. If the battery still won’t charge, it may be defective and need replacement.
Doorbell Won’t Turn On After Charging
If the battery is fully charged but the doorbell won’t power on:
– Make sure the battery is properly seated in the tray.
– Check that the connector is fully plugged in.
– Try removing and reinserting the battery.
– Reset the doorbell by holding the orange button on the back for 20 seconds.
If it still doesn’t work, the battery or doorbell may be faulty. Contact Ring support for assistance.
Charging Takes Too Long
A full charge should take 3–6 hours. If it’s taking much longer:
– Use a higher-quality 5V/2A adapter.
– Avoid charging in cold environments (like a garage in winter).
– Replace old or damaged cables.
Battery Drains Too Fast
If your battery is dying in just a few weeks:
– Review your motion settings and reduce sensitivity.
– Check for firmware updates.
– Consider installing a Ring Solar Charger for continuous power.
LED Light Stays Red
If the light stays red for more than 6 hours, the battery may not be charging properly. Unplug it, wait 10 minutes, and try again. If the issue persists, the battery may need replacement.
When to Replace Your Ring Doorbell 2020 Battery
Even the best lithium-ion batteries degrade over time. Most Ring Doorbell batteries last 2–3 years with regular use. Signs it’s time for a replacement include:
– Battery drains in less than a month
– Doorbell shuts off randomly
– Battery won’t hold a charge
– Swelling or physical damage
You can buy a genuine Ring replacement battery from the Ring website or authorized retailers. Avoid third-party batteries—they may not meet safety standards and could void your warranty.
Replacing the battery is just like charging: remove the old one, insert the new one, and recharge as needed. With a fresh battery, your doorbell will perform like new.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Ring Doorbell 2020 Powered and Protected
Charging your Ring Doorbell 2020 doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right tools, a little know-how, and some smart habits, you can keep your smart doorbell running smoothly all year long. Remember to charge every 3–6 months, use the included cable and adapter, and always check the LED light to confirm a full charge.
By following this guide, you’ll avoid common pitfalls, extend your battery life, and ensure your home stays secure. Whether you’re charging for the first time or the tenth, these steps will help you do it safely and efficiently.
Your Ring Doorbell 2020 is more than just a camera—it’s your first line of defense. Keep it charged, keep it updated, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re always connected to your front door.