This guide walks you through how to charge Ring Doorbell Gen 2 using the built-in rechargeable battery or optional hardwired setup. You’ll learn safe charging practices, how to monitor battery life, and troubleshoot common issues to keep your smart doorbell running smoothly.
Key Takeaways
- Use the official Ring USB cable and charger: Always charge your Ring Doorbell Gen 2 with the included USB cable and a compatible power adapter to avoid damage or slow charging.
- Remove the battery for charging: The Ring Doorbell Gen 2 has a removable battery that must be taken out of the device to charge via USB.
- Charge in a dry, indoor environment: Never charge the battery outdoors or in wet conditions to prevent electrical hazards or damage.
- Monitor battery level in the Ring app: Check your doorbell’s battery status regularly through the Ring app to know when it needs charging.
- Full charge takes 5–10 hours: Depending on the battery level, a full charge typically takes between 5 and 10 hours using a standard 5V/2A adapter.
- Consider hardwiring for continuous power: If frequent charging is inconvenient, hardwiring your Ring Doorbell Gen 2 to existing doorbell wires eliminates the need for battery charging.
- Store spare batteries for quick swaps: Keep a fully charged spare battery on hand to minimize downtime during recharging.
How to Charge Ring Doorbell Gen 2: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
If you own a Ring Doorbell Gen 2, you know how convenient it is to see who’s at your door—even when you’re not home. But like any battery-powered smart device, it needs regular charging to stay operational. Whether you’re a new Ring user or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through how to charge Ring Doorbell Gen 2 safely, efficiently, and correctly.
In this comprehensive how-to guide, you’ll learn everything from removing the battery to monitoring charge levels in the Ring app. We’ll also cover best practices, troubleshooting tips, and alternative power options like hardwiring. By the end, you’ll be confident in maintaining your Ring Doorbell Gen 2 so it’s always ready to protect your home.
Let’s get started!
Understanding Your Ring Doorbell Gen 2 Power Options
Visual guide about How to Charge Ring Doorbell Gen 2
Image source: images.ctfassets.net
Before diving into the charging process, it’s important to understand how your Ring Doorbell Gen 2 gets its power. The Gen 2 model offers two power options:
- Battery-powered operation: Uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that you remove and charge via USB.
- Hardwired setup: Connects to existing doorbell wiring for continuous power, with the battery acting as a backup.
Most users start with the battery-powered option because it’s easier to install and doesn’t require electrical work. However, if you already have doorbell wires in place, hardwiring can save you the hassle of frequent charging.
Regardless of your setup, knowing how to charge Ring Doorbell Gen 2 is essential—especially if you rely on the battery as your primary power source.
What You’ll Need to Charge Your Ring Doorbell Gen 2
Charging your Ring Doorbell Gen 2 is simple, but you’ll need a few things to do it properly:
- Ring Doorbell Gen 2 with removable battery
- Official Ring USB charging cable (included with purchase)
- Compatible USB power adapter (5V/2A recommended)
- Microfiber cloth (optional, for cleaning)
- Indoor, dry charging location
Avoid using third-party cables or chargers, as they may not deliver the correct voltage or current, which can damage the battery or slow down charging. Stick with the official Ring cable and a reliable adapter—like the one that came with your phone or tablet.
Step-by-Step: How to Charge Ring Doorbell Gen 2
Now that you have everything ready, let’s go through the charging process step by step.
Step 1: Check the Battery Level in the Ring App
Before removing the battery, check how much charge is left. This helps you decide whether a quick top-up is enough or if a full charge is needed.
- Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Tap the Devices tab at the bottom.
- Select your Ring Doorbell Gen 2 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. If it’s above 50%, you might be able to wait a few more days—but don’t let it drop too low, as deep discharges can shorten battery life over time.
Step 2: Safely Remove the Ring Doorbell from the Mount
To access the battery, you’ll need to remove the entire doorbell from its mounting bracket.
- Locate the release tab at the bottom of the doorbell. It’s a small, rectangular button.
- Press and hold the release tab firmly.
- While holding the tab, gently pull the doorbell straight down from the mount.
- Set the doorbell on a clean, flat surface—preferably indoors.
Be careful not to drop it. The doorbell is weather-resistant but not indestructible. Also, avoid touching the camera lens or sensors with dirty fingers.
Step 3: Remove the Rechargeable Battery
The battery is housed inside the doorbell and must be removed for charging.
- Flip the doorbell over so the back is facing up.
- Locate the battery compartment—it’s a rectangular slot with a small latch.
- Slide the latch to the side to unlock the compartment.
- Gently pull the battery out by the handle or edge.
The battery is lightweight and easy to handle. If it feels stuck, double-check that the latch is fully released. Never force it.
Step 4: Connect the Battery to the Charging Cable
Now it’s time to plug in the battery.
- Take the official Ring USB charging cable (it has a special connector designed for the battery).
- Align the connector with the port on the battery. It only fits one way—don’t force it.
- Gently push the connector in until it clicks or feels secure.
- Plug the USB end of the cable into a compatible power adapter (5V/2A is ideal).
- Plug the adapter into a wall outlet.
A small LED light on the battery will turn red when charging begins. Once fully charged, it will turn green. This is your visual confirmation that charging is complete.
Step 5: Wait for the Battery to Fully Charge
Charging time depends on how depleted the battery is and the power output of your adapter.
- With a 5V/2A adapter: Full charge takes about 5–6 hours.
- With a lower-output adapter (e.g., 5V/1A): Charging can take 8–10 hours or more.
Avoid using fast chargers (like those for laptops or high-wattage devices), as they can overheat the battery. Stick to standard phone or tablet chargers.
While charging, keep the battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not charge it outdoors, in a car, or near water.
Step 6: Reinsert the Battery and Reattach the Doorbell
Once the LED turns green, your battery is ready to go.
- Unplug the charging cable from the battery.
- Slide the battery back into the compartment in the doorbell. Make sure it’s seated properly.
- Push the compartment door closed until it clicks.
- Hold the doorbell and align it with the mounting bracket on your wall.
- Push the doorbell upward until you hear a click—this means it’s securely locked in place.
Give it a gentle tug to confirm it’s attached. If it moves, reattach it more firmly.
Step 7: Verify Charging Success in the Ring App
After reattaching the doorbell, open the Ring app to confirm everything is working.
- Go to the Devices tab.
- Select your Ring Doorbell Gen 2.
- Check the battery percentage—it should now show a higher level (e.g., 100%).
- Test the live view to ensure the camera and microphone are functioning.
If the battery percentage doesn’t update right away, wait a few minutes. The app syncs periodically, so it may take a moment to reflect the new charge level.
Tips for Efficient and Safe Charging
To get the most out of your Ring Doorbell Gen 2 battery and extend its lifespan, follow these best practices:
Charge Before It Dies Completely
Avoid letting the battery drop to 0%. Lithium-ion batteries last longer when kept between 20% and 80%. Try to charge your doorbell when it reaches 20–30% to prevent deep discharges.
Use the Right Charger
While the Ring cable works with most USB adapters, a 5V/2A adapter provides the best balance of speed and safety. Avoid cheap, uncertified chargers that may deliver inconsistent power.
Keep the Charging Port Clean
Dust or debris in the battery’s charging port can interfere with connections. Use a dry toothbrush or compressed air to gently clean the port every few months.
Store Spare Batteries Properly
If you have a spare Ring battery, store it at around 50% charge in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it fully charged or completely drained for long periods.
Charge Indoors Only
Never charge the battery outside, in a garage, or in humid environments. Moisture and extreme temperatures can damage the battery or create safety risks.
Alternative: Hardwiring Your Ring Doorbell Gen 2
If you’re tired of removing and charging the battery every few weeks, consider hardwiring your Ring Doorbell Gen 2. This setup connects your doorbell to existing doorbell wires, providing continuous power.
Benefits of Hardwiring
- No more battery charging: The doorbell runs on household power.
- Battery acts as backup: Still works during power outages.
- More reliable performance: No risk of missing alerts due to a dead battery.
How to Hardwire (Overview)
- Turn off power to your doorbell at the breaker.
- Remove the old doorbell.
- Connect the Ring mounting bracket to the wires.
- Attach the Ring Doorbell Gen 2 and secure it.
- Turn the power back on and follow the in-app setup.
Hardwiring requires basic electrical knowledge. If you’re unsure, hire a licensed electrician. Never work on live wires.
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
- Check the cable and adapter: Try a different USB cable or power source.
- Clean the charging port: Dust or dirt may block the connection.
- Test the battery: If it still won’t charge, the battery may be faulty. Contact Ring support.
LED Light Doesn’t Turn On
If the LED doesn’t light up when plugged in:
- Ensure the cable is fully inserted.
- Try a different outlet or adapter.
- Check for physical damage to the battery or cable.
If none of these work, the battery may need replacement.
Doorbell Doesn’t Turn On After Charging
- Make sure the battery is fully charged (LED is green).
- Reinsert the battery firmly.
- Restart the doorbell by removing and reattaching it.
- Check the app for error messages.
Battery Drains Too Fast
If your battery dies in just a few days:
- Reduce motion sensitivity: High sensitivity triggers more recordings, draining the battery.
- Limit live view usage: Frequent live streaming uses extra power.
- Check for firmware updates: Ring often releases updates that improve battery efficiency.
- Inspect for obstructions: Snow, dirt, or spider webs can trigger false motion alerts.
How Often Should You Charge Your Ring Doorbell Gen 2?
Battery life varies based on usage, climate, and settings. On average:
- Moderate use: Charge every 3–6 months.
- High use (frequent motion alerts, live view): Charge every 1–2 months.
- Cold weather: Batteries drain faster in winter—check levels more often.
Use the Ring app to monitor usage patterns and set reminders to check the battery monthly.
Conclusion
Knowing how to charge Ring Doorbell Gen 2 is key to keeping your smart doorbell reliable and ready. By following the steps in this guide—removing the battery, using the correct charger, and monitoring charge levels—you’ll ensure your device stays powered and functional.
Remember to charge in a safe, dry environment, avoid deep discharges, and consider hardwiring if you want uninterrupted power. With proper care, your Ring Doorbell Gen 2 will provide years of security and convenience.
Stay safe, stay connected, and never miss a visitor again!