How to Instal Ring Doorbell Wired

Included in the Box

• Ring Doorbell Wired unit
• Mounting bracket (angled and flat options)
• Screws and anchors
• Wire nuts
• Security screw and tool
• User guide and quick start card

Optional but Helpful

• Smartphone with Ring app installed: Download it from the App Store or Google Play before starting.
• Ladder: If your doorbell is high up, safety first!
• Helper: Someone to hold the doorbell while you connect wires can be a big help.

Step 1: Check Compatibility and Power Requirements

Not all doorbells are created equal. The Ring Doorbell Wired needs a specific type of power to function properly. Here’s how to verify your setup is compatible.

Check Your Existing Doorbell Wiring

Most homes with a traditional doorbell have low-voltage wiring (8–24V AC) running from a transformer (usually near your electrical panel or furnace) to the doorbell button. This is exactly what the Ring Wired model needs.

To confirm:

• Remove your current doorbell button by unscrewing it from the wall.
• Gently pull it away to expose the two wires.
• Use a voltage tester (non-contact or multimeter) to check the voltage. If it reads between 8 and 24 volts AC, you’re good to go.

Pro Tip: If your tester shows 0V, the transformer may be faulty or the circuit breaker might be off. Check your breaker panel and ensure the doorbell circuit is live.

What If Your Voltage Is Too Low or Too High?

• Below 8V: The doorbell won’t power on. You’ll need to upgrade your transformer. Ring sells a compatible 16V transformer if needed.
• Above 24V: This can damage the device. Consult an electrician to install a proper transformer.

Never assume your old doorbell wiring is compatible. Testing saves you from frustration—and potential damage—later.

Step 2: Turn Off the Power

Safety can’t be overstated. Even though doorbell wires carry low voltage, they’re still connected to your home’s electrical system. A shock is unlikely, but short-circuiting the transformer can ruin your new doorbell or cause a fire hazard.

How to Safely Shut Off Power

1. Go to your main electrical panel (breaker box).
2. Locate the breaker labeled “Doorbell,” “Chime,” or “Transformer.” If unsure, turn off the main breaker temporarily.
3. Flip the breaker to the OFF position.
4. Return to your doorbell and test the wires again with your voltage tester to confirm no power is flowing.

Important: Never skip this step. Even experienced DIYers have learned the hard way that “low voltage” doesn’t mean “no risk.”

Step 3: Remove Your Old Doorbell

Now that the power is off, it’s time to remove the existing doorbell button.

Unscrew and Disconnect

• Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the old doorbell to the wall.
• Gently pull the unit away to expose the two wires.
• Loosen the terminal screws or remove the wire nuts to free the wires.
• Twist the wires together temporarily to prevent them from slipping back into the wall.

Pro Tip: Take a photo of the wiring before disconnecting. This helps if you need to reference it later or troubleshoot.

Inspect the Wires

Check the ends of the wires. If they’re frayed, corroded, or too short, trim them back about ¼ inch and strip the insulation to expose fresh copper. This ensures a solid connection with your new doorbell.

Step 4: Install the Mounting Bracket

The mounting bracket holds your Ring Doorbell securely and allows for adjustable angles. Ring includes both a flat and a 5-degree angled bracket—choose based on your door and wall layout.

Choose the Right Bracket

• Flat bracket: Use if your doorbell mounts directly against a flat surface (like wood or siding).
• Angled bracket: Ideal for corners, uneven walls, or if you want a better view of your walkway.

Mark and Drill

1. Hold the bracket against the wall where you want to install the doorbell. Use a level to ensure it’s straight.
2. Mark the screw holes with a pencil.
3. If mounting into drywall, use the included anchors. For brick, stucco, or concrete, drill pilot holes with a masonry bit.
4. Screw the bracket into place using the provided screws. Make sure it’s tight and secure—no wobbling!

Pro Tip: If your wires come out of the wall in a tight spot, bend them gently into a “U” shape so they don’t get pinched when you attach the doorbell.

Step 5: Connect the Wires to the Ring Doorbell

This is the moment of truth—connecting power to your new smart doorbell.

Prepare the Wires

• Untwist the two doorbell wires.
• If needed, strip about ¼ inch of insulation from each wire end.

Attach to the Doorbell

1. Locate the two terminal screws on the back of the Ring Doorbell Wired (labeled “Front” and “Trans”).
2. Loosen the screws slightly.
3. Insert one wire under each screw head. It doesn’t matter which wire goes where—Ring is non-polarized.
4. Tighten the screws securely to hold the wires in place.

Important: Do not wrap the wires around the screws. Insert them straight under the screw head for the best connection.

Secure the Doorbell to the Bracket

• Align the doorbell with the mounting bracket.
• Slide it down until it clicks into place.
• Use the included security screw and tool to lock it in. This prevents theft and tampering.

Step 6: Restore Power and Test

With everything connected, it’s time to bring your doorbell to life.

Turn the Power Back On

• Return to your breaker panel.
• Flip the doorbell breaker back to ON.
• Wait about 30 seconds for the system to power up.

Check for Power

Look at your doorbell. You should see a small light on the front (usually white or blue) indicating it’s receiving power. If not, double-check your wiring and breaker.

Test the Chime (Optional)

If you have an indoor chime, press the doorbell button. It should ring. If not, your chime may not be compatible with digital doorbells. Ring offers a Ring Chime or Chime Pro for wireless indoor alerts.

Step 7: Set Up the Ring Doorbell in the App

The final step is connecting your doorbell to your Wi-Fi network and customizing settings via the Ring app.

Download and Open the Ring App

• Install the Ring app on your smartphone (iOS or Android).
• Create a Ring account or log in if you already have one.

Add Your Device

1. Tap the “+” icon in the top right corner.
2. Select “Set up a device.”
3. Choose “Doorbells” and then “Ring Doorbell Wired.”
4. Follow the on-screen prompts.

Scan the QR Code

• The app will ask you to scan the QR code on the back of your doorbell or the quick start card.
• Hold your phone steady until it recognizes the code.

Connect to Wi-Fi

• Select your home Wi-Fi network.
• Enter your password.
• Wait for the doorbell to connect. This may take 1–2 minutes.

Pro Tip: For best performance, ensure your doorbell is within range of your Wi-Fi router. If signal is weak, consider a Wi-Fi extender or the Ring Chime Pro, which boosts signal.

Customize Settings

Once connected, personalize your experience:

• Motion Zones: Define areas where you want alerts (e.g., driveway but not street).
• Motion Sensitivity: Adjust how easily motion triggers a recording.
• Notifications: Choose when and how you receive alerts.
• Linked Devices: Connect to Alexa for voice announcements or Ring cameras for full coverage.