How to Deactivate a Ring Doorbell

This guide walks you through how to deactivate a Ring doorbell for moving, troubleshooting, or account changes. You’ll learn app-based steps, physical removal tips, and what to do after deactivation.

Key Takeaways

• Deactivating vs. Removing: Deactivating stops the device from working and removes it from your account, while physical removal is optional unless moving or replacing.
• Use the Ring App: Most deactivation is done through the Ring app—no need to unplug or disassemble unless necessary.
• Backup Your Data: Save recordings and settings before deactivating to avoid losing important footage.
• Power Matters: Ensure your doorbell has enough battery or is hardwired before starting the process.
• Reactivation is Easy: You can re-add your doorbell to your account anytime if you change your mind.
• Factory Reset for Resale: If selling or giving away your device, perform a factory reset to protect your privacy.
• Contact Support if Stuck: Ring’s customer service can help if you encounter errors during deactivation.

How to Deactivate a Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’ve decided it’s time to deactivate your Ring doorbell. Maybe you’re moving to a new home, upgrading to a newer model, or simply taking a break from smart home tech. Whatever the reason, deactivating your Ring doorbell doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. In fact, with the right steps, it’s a quick and straightforward process.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to deactivate a Ring doorbell—whether you’re doing it temporarily or permanently. We’ll cover deactivation via the Ring app, physical removal (if needed), data backup tips, troubleshooting common issues, and what to do after deactivation. By the end, you’ll feel confident handling the process like a pro.

Let’s get started.

Why You Might Want to Deactivate Your Ring Doorbell

Before jumping into the steps, it’s helpful to understand why someone would want to deactivate their Ring doorbell in the first place. Here are the most common reasons:

• Moving to a New Home: If you’re relocating, you may want to take your Ring doorbell with you. Deactivating it ensures it’s no longer linked to your old address or account.
• Switching Devices: Upgrading to a newer Ring model? Deactivate the old one before setting up the new one to avoid confusion.
• Technical Issues: If your doorbell is malfunctioning—like not connecting to Wi-Fi or failing to record—deactivating and re-adding it can sometimes fix the problem.
• Privacy Concerns: Temporarily turning off your doorbell during private events or renovations can give you peace of mind.
• Selling or Gifting the Device: If you’re passing your Ring doorbell to someone else, deactivating and factory resetting it protects your personal data.

Understanding your reason helps determine whether you need a simple deactivation or a full factory reset. We’ll cover both.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Deactivating your Ring doorbell is mostly done through the app, but having a few things ready will make the process smoother:

• Your smartphone or tablet with the Ring app installed and logged into your account.
• A stable internet connection so the app can communicate with your device.
• Access to your Ring doorbell—either physically (if removing it) or remotely (if just deactivating).
• Your Wi-Fi network name and password (in case you need to reconnect later).
• A screwdriver (if you plan to remove the doorbell from the wall).

If your doorbell is battery-powered, make sure it has enough charge. A low battery can interrupt the deactivation process. For hardwired models, ensure the power is still on unless you’re removing it completely.

Step 1: Back Up Your Data

Before deactivating your Ring doorbell, it’s smart to save any important recordings or settings. Once deactivated, your device will no longer upload new footage, and depending on your settings, old recordings may eventually be deleted.

Save Important Recordings

If you have motion alerts or doorbell presses you want to keep—like a package delivery or a visitor—download them first:

1. Open the Ring app.
2. Tap the Menu (three lines) in the top-left corner.
3. Select History.
4. Find the recording you want to save.
5. Tap the three dots (⋮) next to the video and choose Save to Phone or Share.

You can also email the video to yourself or save it to cloud storage like Google Drive or iCloud.

Note Your Settings

Take a screenshot or write down your current settings, such as:

• Motion zones
• Motion sensitivity
• Notification preferences
• Chime settings (if using a Ring Chime)

This makes reactivation easier if you plan to use the doorbell again.

Step 2: Deactivate Your Ring Doorbell via the App

Now for the main event: deactivating your doorbell through the Ring app. This removes the device from your account and stops it from sending alerts or recording.

Open the Ring App

Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account that owns the doorbell.

Navigate to Device Settings

1. Tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-left corner.
2. Select Devices.
3. Choose your doorbell from the list.
4. Tap the Settings gear icon in the top-right corner.

Remove the Device

1. Scroll down and tap Device Health.
2. Look for the option that says Remove Device or Deactivate Device.
3. Confirm your choice when prompted.

The app will send a command to your doorbell to disconnect from your account. This may take a few seconds. Once complete, your doorbell will no longer appear in your device list, and it won’t record or send notifications.

Tip: If you don’t see the “Remove Device” option, make sure your doorbell is online. If it’s offline, try refreshing the app or checking your Wi-Fi connection.

Step 3: Physically Remove the Doorbell (Optional)

Deactivating via the app stops the device from working, but the hardware may still be mounted on your door. If you’re moving or replacing the doorbell, you’ll want to remove it from the wall.

Turn Off Power (For Hardwired Models)

If your Ring doorbell is hardwired:

1. Go to your home’s circuit breaker.
2. Turn off the power to the doorbell circuit.
3. Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the power is off.

Safety first! Never remove a hardwired doorbell while it’s still connected to electricity.

Unscrew the Doorbell

1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the two screws on the bottom of the doorbell faceplate.
2. Gently pull the doorbell away from the mounting bracket.
3. If it’s battery-powered, simply lift it off the bracket.
4. For hardwired models, disconnect the wires by loosening the terminal screws.

Tip: Label the wires (e.g., “Front Door” or “Transformer”) so you can reconnect them later if needed.

Remove the Mounting Bracket

If you’re not replacing the doorbell immediately, you can leave the bracket in place. But if you want a clean look:

1. Unscrew the bracket from the wall.
2. Fill the screw holes with spackle or wall filler.
3. Touch up with paint to match your wall.

Step 4: Perform a Factory Reset (For Resale or Gifting)

If you’re selling your Ring doorbell or giving it to someone else, a factory reset is essential. This erases all personal data and returns the device to its original settings.

How to Factory Reset a Ring Doorbell

The method varies slightly depending on your model, but here’s the general process:

1. Press and hold the orange button on the back of the doorbell for 20 seconds.
2. The light on the front will flash, then turn solid white.
3. Release the button.
4. The doorbell will reboot and enter setup mode.

Note: On newer models like the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, you may need to use the Ring app to initiate the reset. Go to Device Settings > Device Health > Remove Device, then follow the on-screen instructions.

After the reset, the doorbell is ready for a new owner to set up as if it were brand new.

Step 5: What to Do After Deactivation

Once your Ring doorbell is deactivated, there are a few things you might want to do next.

Reactivate Later

Changed your mind? You can easily re-add your doorbell to your account:

1. Open the Ring app.
2. Tap the + icon to add a new device.
3. Follow the setup steps as if it were new.
4. Reconnect to Wi-Fi and restore your settings.

Your previous recordings won’t return, but your device will function normally again.

Install at a New Location

If you’re moving, take your doorbell with you! Just make sure:

• The new location has strong Wi-Fi.
• You have the right mounting hardware.
• You re-register the device under your account.

Recycle or Donate Responsibly

If you’re not reusing the doorbell, consider donating it to a school, community center, or friend. Just make sure it’s factory reset first. If recycling, check with local e-waste programs—Ring devices contain batteries and electronics that shouldn’t go in regular trash.

Troubleshooting Common Deactivation Issues

Even with clear steps, things don’t always go smoothly. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.

“Remove Device” Option is Grayed Out

If you can’t tap the “Remove Device” button, it’s usually because:

• The doorbell is offline. Check your Wi-Fi and power source.
• The app needs an update. Go to your app store and install the latest version.
• Your account has restrictions. Make sure you’re the owner, not a shared user.

Try restarting your phone and reopening the app. If that doesn’t work, contact Ring Support.

Doorbell Still Sending Alerts After Deactivation

This is rare, but if your doorbell continues to notify you:

1. Check if it’s still connected to your account. Go to Devices and confirm it’s removed.
2. Restart your router to refresh the connection.
3. Perform a factory reset to ensure it’s fully disconnected.

Can’t Access the App

If you’ve lost access to your Ring account:

• Use the “Forgot Password” feature to reset your login.
• Contact Ring Support with proof of ownership (like a receipt or serial number).
• If you’re moving and the new owner needs access, they can set up their own account—no need for you to stay logged in.

Battery Drains Quickly After Deactivation

If your battery-powered doorbell dies fast even when “off,” it might still be trying to connect. A factory reset usually fixes this.

Tips for a Smooth Deactivation Process

To make deactivating your Ring doorbell as easy as possible, keep these tips in mind:

• Do it during the day: Better lighting makes physical removal safer and easier.
• Charge your phone: The app process uses data and battery—don’t let your phone die mid-process.
• Take photos: Snap pictures of your wiring setup before disconnecting hardwired models.
• Keep the manual: If you have the original box or manual, store it with the device for future use.
• Check local laws: Some areas have rules about video recording at entrances—know your rights before reactivating.

Final Thoughts: Deactivating Your Ring Doorbell Made Simple

Deactivating your Ring doorbell doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether you’re moving, upgrading, or just taking a break, the process is designed to be user-friendly. By following the steps in this guide—backing up data, using the app to remove the device, optionally removing it physically, and performing a factory reset if needed—you can do it confidently and correctly.

Remember, deactivation is not the end. Your Ring doorbell can be reactivated anytime, and with the right care, it’ll serve you well for years to come. And if you ever run into trouble, Ring’s customer support team is there to help.

So go ahead—take control of your smart home setup. Whether you’re deactivating temporarily or for good, you’ve got this.