This guide walks you through how to delete Ring Doorbell completely—from the app, your account, and your home network. Whether you’re upgrading, moving, or troubleshooting, we’ll help you remove your device safely and securely.
Key Takeaways
- Deleting a Ring Doorbell requires both app and device steps: You must remove the device from the Ring app and physically disconnect it from power and Wi-Fi.
- Unlinking prevents future access: Removing the device from your account ensures no one else can view your camera feeds or recordings.
- Factory reset is essential for resale or gifting: Always perform a factory reset before giving away your Ring Doorbell to protect your privacy.
- Wi-Fi disconnection stops data transmission: Turning off the device’s Wi-Fi access halts live streaming and motion alerts immediately.
- Subscription plans are not automatically canceled: If you have Ring Protect, you must cancel it separately to avoid continued charges.
- Physical removal protects your home’s wiring: Properly uninstalling the doorbell prevents damage to your doorframe or electrical system.
- Troubleshooting tips resolve common issues: If the app freezes or the device won’t reset, try force-closing the app or using the physical reset button.
How to Delete Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re wondering how to delete Ring Doorbell, you’re not alone. Whether you’re moving to a new home, upgrading to a newer model, or simply no longer need your smart doorbell, removing it properly is important for your privacy, security, and peace of mind. Deleting your Ring Doorbell isn’t just about unplugging it—it involves several steps to ensure the device is fully disconnected from your account, your network, and your personal data.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from removing the device in the Ring app to performing a factory reset and physically uninstalling it from your door. We’ll also cover what to do with your Ring Protect subscription, how to handle shared users, and what to do if you run into problems. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to delete your Ring Doorbell safely and completely.
Let’s get started.
Why You Might Want to Delete Your Ring Doorbell
Before diving into the steps, it’s helpful to understand why someone would want to delete their Ring Doorbell. Common reasons include:
- Moving to a new home: You may not want to leave your smart doorbell behind, especially if it’s linked to your personal account.
- Upgrading to a newer model: Ring frequently releases updated doorbells with better cameras, longer battery life, or improved motion detection.
- Privacy concerns: Some users worry about data collection or prefer not to have cameras near their entrance.
- Technical issues: If your doorbell is malfunctioning and can’t be fixed, removing it may be the best option.
- Selling or gifting the device: If you’re passing your Ring Doorbell to a friend or selling it, you must delete it from your account first.
No matter your reason, the process is straightforward—but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid leaving your data exposed or causing issues for the next user.
Step 1: Remove the Ring Doorbell from the App
The first and most important step in how to delete Ring Doorbell is removing it from the Ring app. This disconnects the device from your account and stops it from sending alerts, recordings, or live feeds to your phone.
Open the Ring App
Start by opening the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account that owns the doorbell. If you have multiple devices, confirm you’re viewing the correct one.
Navigate to Device Settings
Tap on the three horizontal lines (the menu icon) in the top-left corner of the screen. From the menu, select “Devices.” You’ll see a list of all your Ring devices—doorbell, cameras, alarms, etc.
Select Your Doorbell
Find your Ring Doorbell in the list and tap on it. This will open the device’s control panel, where you can view live video, check battery life, and adjust settings.
Access Device Health
Scroll down and tap on “Device Health.” This section shows the status of your doorbell, including Wi-Fi signal strength, battery level, and firmware version.
Remove the Device
At the bottom of the Device Health screen, you’ll see a red button labeled “Remove Device.” Tap it. The app will ask you to confirm—select “Remove” again. This permanently deletes the doorbell from your Ring account.
Tip: Once removed, the device will no longer appear in your app, and you won’t receive any notifications from it. However, the doorbell itself may still be powered on and connected to Wi-Fi unless you take further steps.
Step 2: Perform a Factory Reset
Removing the device from the app is crucial, but it doesn’t erase the doorbell’s internal memory. To fully delete your data and prepare the device for a new owner (or to ensure it can’t be reactivated), you must perform a factory reset.
Locate the Reset Button
The reset button is a small, recessed button usually found on the back or side of the Ring Doorbell. You’ll need a paperclip, SIM tool, or similar thin object to press it.
Press and Hold the Reset Button
With the doorbell powered on, press and hold the reset button for at least 15 seconds. You’ll see the LED light on the front flash or change color—this indicates the reset is in progress.
Wait for the Reset to Complete
After about 30 seconds, the LED will turn solid white or green, signaling that the factory reset is complete. The device will now be restored to its original factory settings, just like when you first unboxed it.
Important: A factory reset erases all stored data, including Wi-Fi credentials, motion zones, and user settings. This step is essential if you’re selling or giving away the doorbell.
Step 3: Disconnect from Power and Wi-Fi
Even after removing the device from the app and performing a factory reset, your Ring Doorbell may still be connected to power and Wi-Fi. To fully delete it, you need to disconnect it from both.
Turn Off the Power
If your Ring Doorbell is hardwired, turn off the power at the circuit breaker. This ensures no electricity is flowing to the device during removal. For battery-powered models, simply remove the battery.
Disconnect from Wi-Fi
Although the factory reset removes the Wi-Fi password, it’s a good idea to remove the device from your router’s connected devices list. Log into your router’s admin panel (usually via a web browser) and look for “Connected Devices” or “Device List.” Find your Ring Doorbell and remove it.
Tip: Some routers allow you to block specific devices. If you’re concerned about the doorbell reconnecting, consider blocking its MAC address.
Step 4: Physically Remove the Doorbell
Now that the device is digitally deleted, it’s time to remove it from your door. This step protects your home’s wiring and ensures the doorbell is completely gone.
Remove the Faceplate
Most Ring Doorbells have a faceplate that snaps off. Use a screwdriver or your fingers to gently pry it away from the mounting bracket.
Unscrew the Mounting Bracket
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the mounting bracket to your doorframe. Be careful not to damage the surrounding area.
Disconnect Wires (If Hardwired)
If your doorbell is hardwired, carefully disconnect the wires from the back of the mounting bracket. Use electrical tape to cap the exposed ends to prevent short circuits.
Patch and Paint (Optional)
If you’re not replacing the doorbell immediately, consider patching the screw holes with wood filler and repainting the area for a clean look.
Note: If you’re installing a new doorbell, you can reuse the existing wiring—just make sure the power is off before connecting anything.
Step 5: Cancel Your Ring Protect Subscription (If Applicable)
Deleting your Ring Doorbell doesn’t automatically cancel your Ring Protect plan. If you’re no longer using any Ring devices, you should cancel your subscription to avoid unnecessary charges.
Open the Ring App
Go back to the Ring app and tap the menu icon. Select “More” and then “Protect Plan.”
Manage Your Subscription
Tap on your current plan and select “Cancel Plan.” Follow the prompts to confirm cancellation.
Check for Refunds
If you paid annually, you may be eligible for a partial refund. Ring typically prorates refunds based on unused time.
Tip: If you’re keeping other Ring devices (like indoor cameras), you can downgrade to a single-device plan instead of canceling entirely.
Step 6: Remove Shared Users (If Any)
If you’ve shared access to your Ring Doorbell with family members or neighbors, they’ll still have access unless you remove them.
Go to Shared Users
In the Ring app, go to “More” > “Shared Users.” You’ll see a list of people who can view your doorbell.
Remove Each User
Tap on each user and select “Remove Access.” Confirm when prompted.
Note: Shared users will lose access immediately, even if the doorbell is still physically installed.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, the process of deleting your Ring Doorbell doesn’t go smoothly. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
The App Won’t Let Me Remove the Device
If the “Remove Device” button is grayed out or unresponsive, try the following:
- Force-close the Ring app and reopen it.
- Restart your phone or tablet.
- Ensure you’re logged into the owner account—shared users can’t remove devices.
- Update the Ring app to the latest version.
The Factory Reset Doesn’t Work
If the LED doesn’t flash or the reset fails:
- Make sure the doorbell has sufficient battery or is connected to power.
- Press the reset button firmly and hold it for at least 15 seconds.
- Try resetting it while connected to Wi-Fi—some models require an internet connection.
The Doorbell Reconnects After Reset
If your Ring Doorbell reconnects to your Wi-Fi after a reset, it may have saved credentials in its memory. To prevent this:
- Remove the device from your router’s connected devices list.
- Change your Wi-Fi password after removing the doorbell.
- Perform the factory reset again, ensuring you hold the button long enough.
I Can’t Access the Ring App
If you’ve lost access to your account:
- Use the “Forgot Password” feature to reset your login.
- Contact Ring Support for help recovering your account.
- If you no longer have the email or phone number linked to the account, you may need to prove ownership of the device.
What to Do After Deleting Your Ring Doorbell
Once your Ring Doorbell is fully deleted, consider these next steps:
- Sell or donate it: If the device is in good condition, you can sell it online or give it to a friend. Just make sure it’s factory reset.
- Recycle responsibly: If the doorbell is broken, check with local e-waste programs for safe disposal.
- Install a new doorbell: If you’re upgrading, follow the setup instructions for your new model.
- Review your home security: Consider other smart security options, like cameras, alarms, or motion sensors.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to delete Ring Doorbell is an important part of owning a smart home device. It’s not just about unplugging it—it’s about protecting your privacy, securing your data, and ensuring a smooth transition whether you’re moving, upgrading, or simply taking a break from smart tech.
By following the steps in this guide—removing the device from the app, performing a factory reset, disconnecting from power and Wi-Fi, and physically uninstalling it—you can delete your Ring Doorbell completely and confidently. Don’t forget to cancel your Ring Protect plan and remove shared users to avoid any lingering access.
With the right approach, deleting your Ring Doorbell is quick, easy, and stress-free. And if you ever decide to reinstall it or try a different model, you’ll be ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I delete my Ring Doorbell without the app?
No, you must use the Ring app to remove the device from your account. However, you can perform a factory reset using the physical button, which helps protect your data if you no longer have app access.
Will deleting my Ring Doorbell stop motion alerts?
Yes. Once you remove the device from the app, it will no longer send motion alerts, live views, or recordings to your phone.
Do I need to delete my Ring Doorbell if I’m moving?
It’s highly recommended. Leaving it behind could allow the new homeowners to access your account if it’s not properly removed and reset.
Can I reinstall my Ring Doorbell after deleting it?
Yes, as long as you perform a factory reset first. You can then set it up again using the Ring app as if it were new.
Does deleting the doorbell cancel my Ring Protect plan?
No. You must cancel your subscription separately in the app under “Protect Plan” to stop billing.
What if I forgot to remove shared users?
Go back to the Ring app, navigate to “Shared Users,” and remove them manually. They will lose access immediately.
Is it safe to sell a used Ring Doorbell?
Yes, as long as you’ve performed a factory reset and removed it from your account. This ensures the new owner can’t access your data.
How long does it take to delete a Ring Doorbell?
The entire process—app removal, factory reset, and physical uninstall—takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your setup.