This guide walks you through safely connecting a traditional mechanical or digital chime to your Arlo doorbell, even if it’s wire-free. You’ll learn wiring basics, compatibility checks, and troubleshooting tips to ensure your doorbell chimes reliably every time.
Key Takeaways
- Check compatibility first: Not all Arlo doorbells support traditional chimes—verify your model before starting.
- Turn off power at the breaker: Always shut off electricity to avoid shocks or damage to your doorbell system.
- Use the Arlo Chime Connector (if needed): Some Arlo models require this accessory to interface with existing chimes.
- Follow wiring diagrams carefully: Incorrect connections can damage your chime or doorbell.
- Test after installation: Always test the chime and live video feed to confirm everything works.
- Troubleshoot common issues: No sound? Check wires, power, and app settings.
- Consider a professional if unsure: If wiring feels overwhelming, hire an electrician for safety.
Introduction: Why Connect a Traditional Chime to Your Arlo Doorbell?
So, you’ve installed your sleek new Arlo doorbell—great choice! It gives you live video, motion alerts, and two-way talk right on your phone. But here’s the thing: if you’re like many homeowners, you still want that classic *ding-dong* from your existing doorbell chime inside the house. Maybe your family is used to hearing it, or maybe not everyone checks their phone when someone’s at the door.
That’s where connecting a traditional chime to your Arlo doorbell comes in. Even though Arlo offers wireless doorbells (like the Arlo Essential Wire-Free Doorbell), they can still work with your old mechanical or digital chime—if you set it up correctly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to connect a traditional chime to an Arlo doorbell safely and effectively. Whether you have a wired Arlo model or a wire-free one, we’ve got you covered. You’ll learn what tools you need, how to check compatibility, step-by-step wiring instructions, and how to fix common problems.
By the end, your Arlo doorbell will not only send alerts to your phone but also ring your familiar indoor chime—just like the old days, but smarter.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Visual guide about How to Connect Traditional Chime to Arlo Doorbell
Image source: diysmarthomehub.com
Before you touch any wires, gather these essentials:
- Voltage tester: To confirm power is off.
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead): For removing plates and terminals.
- Wire strippers: To prep existing doorbell wires.
- Electrical tape: For insulating connections.
- Arlo Chime Connector (if required): Needed for certain wire-free models.
- Ladder: To safely reach your doorbell and chime box.
- Smartphone with Arlo app: For setup and testing.
Pro tip: Take a photo of your current wiring before disconnecting anything. It’ll save you headaches later!
Step 1: Check Your Arlo Doorbell Model and Compatibility
Not all Arlo doorbells are created equal when it comes to traditional chime support.
Wired vs. Wire-Free Arlo Doorbells
Arlo offers two main types:
- Wired models: Like the Arlo Video Doorbell (wired version). These typically connect directly to your existing doorbell wiring and can often trigger your chime without extra hardware.
- Wire-free models: Like the Arlo Essential Wire-Free Doorbell. These run on batteries and don’t connect directly to your chime—so they usually need an Arlo Chime Connector to work with traditional chimes.
How to Identify Your Model
Check the back of your doorbell or look in the Arlo app under “Device Settings.” Common models include:
- Arlo Video Doorbell (Wired)
- Arlo Essential Wire-Free Doorbell
- Arlo Pro 4 Doorbell (wired or wire-free options)
Does Your Chime Work with Arlo?
Most mechanical chimes (the ones with physical bells or strikers) and digital chimes (with electronic tones) are compatible—but only if your Arlo model supports them.
Important: If you have a smart chime (like Ring or Nest), you may not need to connect it physically—Arlo can often sync via Wi-Fi. But this guide focuses on traditional chimes.
Step 2: Turn Off Power at the Breaker
This cannot be stressed enough: always turn off power before working on doorbell wiring.
Why Safety Matters
Doorbell circuits usually run on low voltage (8–24V AC), but they’re still connected to your home’s electrical system. A short circuit could damage your doorbell, chime, or even cause a fire.
How to Safely Shut Off Power
- Go to your main electrical panel (breaker box).
- Look for a labeled “Doorbell,” “Chime,” or “Low Voltage” circuit. If unsure, turn off the main breaker temporarily.
- Use a non-contact voltage tester at the doorbell and chime terminals to confirm no power is flowing.
- Place a note on the breaker box so others don’t accidentally turn it back on.
Reminder: Never assume the power is off just because the doorbell isn’t ringing!
Step 3: Remove Your Old Doorbell (If Applicable)
If you’re replacing an old doorbell with an Arlo, you’ll need to remove it first.
Steps to Remove the Old Unit
- Unscrew the faceplate of your existing doorbell.
- Carefully pull it away from the wall to expose the wires.
- Take a photo of how the wires are connected (seriously—do this!).
- Loosen the terminal screws and disconnect the wires.
- Tuck the wires back into the wall box for now.
Note: If you’re keeping your old doorbell as a backup, label the wires (e.g., “Front,” “Trans”) with tape.
Step 4: Locate and Access Your Indoor Chime Box
Your chime is usually mounted near the front door, often in a hallway or living room.
How to Find It
Look for a small rectangular box with buttons labeled “Front,” “Rear,” or “Master.” It may be behind a decorative cover.
Opening the Chime Box
- Remove the front cover (usually held by screws or clips).
- Identify the terminals: typically labeled “Front,” “Trans,” and sometimes “Rear.”
- Again, take a photo of the current wiring!
Understanding Chime Terminals
- Front: Connects to the front doorbell button.
- Trans: Connects to the transformer (power source).
- Rear: Optional—for a second doorbell (e.g., back door).
Your Arlo doorbell will connect to the “Front” and “Trans” terminals—either directly or via the Chime Connector.
Step 5: Install the Arlo Chime Connector (For Wire-Free Models)
If you have a wire-free Arlo doorbell, you’ll need the Arlo Chime Connector (sold separately) to bridge the gap between your battery-powered doorbell and your wired chime.
What Is the Arlo Chime Connector?
It’s a small device that plugs into your existing chime wiring and communicates wirelessly with your Arlo doorbell. When someone presses the button, the connector sends a signal to trigger your chime.
How to Install It
- With power still off, disconnect the wires from the “Front” and “Trans” terminals on your chime.
- Connect those same wires to the corresponding terminals on the Chime Connector (usually labeled “CHIME” and “TRANSFORMER”).
- Mount the Chime Connector inside or near the chime box (it needs to be within range of your doorbell).
- Power it on by restoring electricity (we’ll test soon).
Tip: The Chime Connector requires Wi-Fi and must be set up in the Arlo app before use.
Step 6: Connect Wired Arlo Doorbells Directly to Your Chime
If you have a wired Arlo doorbell, you can often connect it directly—no extra hardware needed.
Wiring Steps
- Run the two wires from your doorbell location to the chime box (or use existing wires).
- At the chime, connect one wire to the “Front” terminal and the other to the “Trans” terminal.
- At the doorbell, connect the same two wires to the Arlo’s terminals (usually labeled “Front” and “Common” or “C”).
- Secure all connections with screw terminals—don’t just twist wires together!
Double-Check Polarity
Doorbell circuits are AC (alternating current), so polarity doesn’t matter—but make sure wires are tight and insulated.
Step 7: Restore Power and Test the System
Now for the moment of truth!
Turn Power Back On
Go to your breaker box and restore power to the doorbell circuit.
Test the Chime
- Press your Arlo doorbell button.
- Listen for the chime inside.
- Check your phone for a live video alert.
If the chime rings and you get a notification—congrats! You’re done.
If not, don’t panic. Move to troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems.
Chime Doesn’t Ring
- Check power: Use a voltage tester at the chime terminals. You should see 8–24V AC.
- Verify wiring: Ensure wires are connected to the correct terminals (“Front” and “Trans”).
- Test the chime itself: Bypass the doorbell by touching the two wires together. If it rings, the issue is with the doorbell or signal.
- For wire-free models: Make sure the Chime Connector is powered, connected to Wi-Fi, and paired in the Arlo app.
Chime Rings But No Video Alert
- Open the Arlo app and check if the doorbell is online.
- Ensure motion and button-press alerts are enabled in settings.
- Restart your Wi-Fi router and the doorbell (remove/reinsert battery or power cycle).
Intermittent or Weak Chime Sound
- This could mean low voltage. Check your transformer—it may be underpowered or failing.
- Replace the transformer if it’s below 16V AC under load.
Arlo App Says “Doorbell Offline”
- For wired models: Check wire connections and power.
- For wire-free: Replace batteries or ensure it’s charged.
- Re-sync the doorbell in the app under “Device Settings.”
Advanced Tips for a Clean Installation
Want your setup to look professional? Try these tips:
- Use wire nuts or terminal blocks: For extra security in the chime box.
- Label all wires: Especially if you have multiple doors.
- Hide the Chime Connector: Mount it behind the chime cover or in a nearby junction box.
- Update firmware: Keep your Arlo doorbell and app updated for best performance.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re uncomfortable with electrical work, don’t guess. Hire a licensed electrician. They can:
- Verify your transformer is adequate.
- Run new wires if needed.
- Ensure code compliance and safety.
It’s better to spend $100 on a pro than risk damage or injury.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Best of Both Worlds
Connecting a traditional chime to your Arlo doorbell lets you enjoy modern smart features without losing that comforting, familiar sound. Whether you’re using a wired Arlo model or a wire-free one with the Chime Connector, the process is straightforward—if you follow safety steps and double-check your connections.
Remember: turn off the power, verify compatibility, and test thoroughly. With this guide, you’ve got everything you need to make your doorbell system smarter, safer, and more convenient.
Now go enjoy that satisfying *ding-dong*—and the peace of mind that comes with seeing who’s at your door, even when you’re not home.