Installing the Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation is easier than you think—this guide walks you through every step, from checking compatibility to final app setup. You’ll get clear instructions, pro tips, and troubleshooting help to ensure a smooth, successful installation.
Key Takeaways
- Check compatibility first: Ensure your existing doorbell wiring meets voltage requirements (16–24V AC) and that your Wi-Fi supports 2.4 GHz networks.
- Turn off power safely: Always shut off the circuit breaker before removing your old doorbell to prevent electrical shock.
- Use the right tools: A screwdriver, voltage tester, and possibly a drill are essential for a clean, secure installation.
- Follow the Arlo app closely: The app guides you through syncing, mounting, and testing—don’t skip any steps.
- Test before finalizing: Confirm the chime rings, motion detection works, and video streams clearly before finishing up.
- Troubleshoot common issues: If the doorbell won’t connect or the chime doesn’t ring, check wiring, Wi-Fi signal, or reset the device.
- Consider a chime kit if needed: Homes without a mechanical chime may require the Arlo Chime Kit for audio alerts.
How to Install Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation
Upgrading to a smart doorbell like the Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation brings convenience, security, and peace of mind right to your front door. Whether you’re replacing an old wired doorbell or installing one for the first time, this guide will walk you through the entire process—step by step—so you can get your Arlo doorbell up and running smoothly.
In this comprehensive how-to guide, you’ll learn everything from checking your home’s compatibility to mounting the device, syncing it with the Arlo app, and troubleshooting common issues. We’ll keep things simple, friendly, and practical, so even if you’re not a DIY expert, you’ll feel confident tackling this project. By the end, you’ll have a fully functional smart doorbell that sends real-time alerts, crisp video, and two-way audio straight to your phone.
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
Before you unbox your Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation, it’s important to gather the right tools and confirm your setup is ready. Rushing into installation without preparation can lead to frustration—or worse, damage to your device or home wiring.
Visual guide about How to Install Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation
Image source: blog.arlo.com
Tools and Materials
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Voltage tester (non-contact type recommended)
- Drill and drill bits (if mounting on brick, stucco, or concrete)
- Wall anchors (if needed for your surface)
- Smartphone or tablet with the Arlo app installed
- Wi-Fi network name and password
- Optional: Arlo Chime Kit (if your home doesn’t have a mechanical chime)
Compatibility Check
Not all homes are ready for a wired smart doorbell. The Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation requires:
- Existing doorbell wiring: You must have low-voltage wires (typically two) running from your doorbell button to the chime inside your home.
- Voltage range: Your doorbell transformer should output between 16V and 24V AC. Most older homes fall within this range, but it’s best to verify.
- Wi-Fi network: The doorbell connects via 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only—5 GHz networks are not supported.
- Mechanical chime (optional but recommended): If you have a digital or electronic chime, you may need the Arlo Chime Kit to ensure the doorbell rings inside your home.
To check your voltage, turn off the power, remove your current doorbell button, and use a voltage tester on the wires. If you’re unsure, consult an electrician—better safe than sorry!
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
Safety first! Working with electrical wiring can be dangerous if you don’t take proper precautions. Even though doorbell systems use low voltage, there’s still a risk of shock or short-circuiting your device.
Locate Your Circuit Breaker
Find your home’s main electrical panel. Look for a breaker labeled “doorbell,” “chime,” or something similar. If you can’t find it, turn off the main breaker to be extra safe—just remember your lights and appliances will go off too.
Test the Power
After turning off the breaker, go back to your doorbell and press the button. If the chime doesn’t ring, the power is off. For extra certainty, use a non-contact voltage tester on the wires at the doorbell location. The tester should not light up or beep if the power is truly off.
Pro Tip: Take a photo of your current wiring setup before disconnecting anything. This will help you remember how the wires were connected if you need to troubleshoot later.
Step 2: Remove Your Old Doorbell
Now that the power is off, it’s time to remove your existing doorbell button. This step is straightforward but requires a bit of care to avoid damaging the wall or wires.
Unscrew the Old Button
Use your screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the old doorbell button in place. Gently pull the button away from the wall. You should see two wires connected to the back—usually labeled “Front” and “Trans” or just two bare ends.
Disconnect the Wires
Loosen the terminal screws or release the wire clips to disconnect the wires. Don’t cut them—just disconnect them so they’re free. Let the wires rest inside the wall for now; you’ll reconnect them to the Arlo doorbell shortly.
Important: Keep the wires from touching each other or the wall. If they short out, it could damage your new doorbell or transformer. You can use electrical tape to wrap the ends temporarily.
Step 3: Prepare the Arlo Doorbell
Now that your old doorbell is out of the way, it’s time to get your Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation ready for installation. The device comes with a mounting plate, screws, and wire connectors—everything you need for a secure fit.
Unbox and Inspect
Open the box and make sure all components are included:
- Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation unit
- Mounting plate
- Screws and wall anchors
- Wire connectors (if needed)
- Quick start guide
Check the doorbell for any visible damage. If something looks off, contact Arlo support before proceeding.
Attach the Mounting Plate
The mounting plate is the backbone of your installation. It holds the doorbell securely and routes the wires neatly.
- Hold the mounting plate against the wall where you want to install the doorbell. Make sure it’s level using a spirit level or the leveling tool in your smartphone.
- Mark the screw holes with a pencil.
- If you’re mounting on drywall, use the included wall anchors for extra support. For brick or concrete, drill pilot holes and use appropriate anchors.
- Screw the mounting plate into place using the provided screws.
Pro Tip: If your wall is uneven or you want to angle the doorbell for better motion detection, use the included wedge mount. It allows you to tilt the doorbell up to 15 degrees for optimal coverage.
Step 4: Connect the Wires
This is the most critical part of the installation—connecting the wires correctly ensures your doorbell gets power and communicates with your chime.
Strip the Wire Ends (If Needed)
If the ends of your existing wires are frayed or too short, use wire strippers to expose about 1/4 inch of copper. Be careful not to cut too much—just enough to make a solid connection.
Connect to the Mounting Plate
The Arlo mounting plate has two terminal screws labeled “Front” and “Trans.” It doesn’t matter which wire goes where—Arlo doorbells are polarity-insensitive, meaning the wires can be swapped without issue.
- Loosen the terminal screws on the mounting plate.
- Insert one wire under each screw.
- Tighten the screws securely to hold the wires in place.
Note: If your wires are too short or damaged, you can use the included wire extenders or solder new wires. Just make sure all connections are insulated with electrical tape or wire nuts.
Step 5: Mount the Doorbell
With the wires connected and the mounting plate secure, it’s time to attach the Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation to the wall.
Align and Snap Into Place
Hold the doorbell unit so the back aligns with the mounting plate. Gently press it toward the wall until you hear a click—this means it’s securely locked in place.
Secure with the Security Screw
Use the small security screw (included) to fasten the doorbell to the mounting plate. This prevents theft and ensures the device stays put, even in windy conditions.
Pro Tip: Don’t overtighten the security screw—just snug it enough to hold the doorbell firmly. Over-tightening can crack the plastic.
Step 6: Turn the Power Back On
Now that everything is connected, it’s time to restore power and see if your doorbell powers up.
Flip the Breaker
Go back to your electrical panel and turn the doorbell breaker back on. Wait about 30 seconds for the system to stabilize.
Check for Power
Look at your Arlo doorbell. You should see a light ring around the button. It may flash blue, white, or orange depending on the status:
- Solid blue: Ready to connect
- Blinking blue: Connecting to Wi-Fi
- Blinking orange: Needs setup or has an issue
If the light doesn’t come on, double-check your wiring and breaker. If the problem persists, refer to the troubleshooting section below.
Step 7: Set Up the Arlo App
The Arlo app is your control center for the doorbell. It guides you through setup, lets you customize settings, and sends alerts to your phone.
Download and Open the App
If you haven’t already, download the Arlo app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Open it and log in to your Arlo account. If you don’t have one, create a free account—it only takes a minute.
Add a New Device
Tap the “+” icon or “Add Device” button. Select “Doorbell” and then “Arlo Doorbell (2nd Gen).” The app will prompt you to scan the QR code on the back of your doorbell or enter the serial number manually.
Connect to Wi-Fi
The app will ask you to connect the doorbell to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. Make sure your phone is on the same network. Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted.
Note: The doorbell cannot connect to 5 GHz networks or guest networks. If your router broadcasts both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz under the same name, temporarily rename the 2.4 GHz network (e.g., “HomeWiFi_2.4”) to avoid confusion.
Test the Connection
Once connected, the app will run a series of tests:
- Check video quality
- Test motion detection
- Verify two-way audio
- Confirm chime activation
If any test fails, the app will suggest fixes. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
Step 8: Customize Your Settings
Now that your doorbell is online, it’s time to personalize it to fit your lifestyle.
Motion Zones
In the app, go to “Device Settings” > “Motion Settings” > “Motion Zones.” You can draw zones on the camera view to focus alerts on specific areas—like your driveway or front walk—and ignore others, like a busy street.
Notification Preferences
Choose when and how you want to be alerted. You can set quiet hours, enable package detection, or turn off alerts during certain times of day.
Chime Settings
If you have a mechanical chime, the doorbell will trigger it when pressed. If you’re using the Arlo Chime Kit, you can choose from multiple sounds and adjust the volume directly in the app.
Video Quality and Recording
Adjust video resolution, enable HDR, and set recording length. Note that higher quality uses more data and battery (if using battery mode), so balance quality with performance.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, problems can arise. Here’s how to fix the most common issues with the Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation.
Doorbell Won’t Power On
- Check the breaker: Make sure the doorbell circuit is on.
- Test voltage: Use a multimeter to confirm 16–24V AC at the wires.
- Inspect connections: Ensure wires are securely attached and not touching each other.
Wi-Fi Connection Fails
- Signal strength: The doorbell needs a strong 2.4 GHz signal. Move your router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Network congestion: Too many devices on the network can cause issues. Restart your router.
- Incorrect password: Double-check your Wi-Fi password in the app.
Chime Doesn’t Ring
- Mechanical chime required: Digital chimes often don’t work with smart doorbells. Use the Arlo Chime Kit instead.
- Wiring issue: Ensure the wires are connected to the correct terminals at the chime unit inside your home.
- Volume too low: Check the chime’s volume settings or replace old chime modules.
Video is Blurry or Laggy
- Wi-Fi interference: Move the doorbell away from metal objects or large appliances.
- Low bandwidth: Pause other devices using the network during setup.
- Firmware update: Check the app for available updates and install them.
Motion Alerts Not Working
- Motion zones disabled: Enable and adjust motion zones in the app.
- Sensitivity too low: Increase motion sensitivity in settings.
- Obstructions: Make sure the lens isn’t blocked by dirt, spiderwebs, or overgrown plants.
Final Tips for Long-Term Success
Once your Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation is installed and working, a few simple habits will keep it running smoothly for years.
Keep It Clean
Wipe the lens and motion sensor with a soft, dry cloth every few weeks. Avoid harsh chemicals—water and a microfiber cloth work best.
Update Firmware Regularly
The Arlo app will notify you when updates are available. These improve performance, fix bugs, and add new features. Install them promptly.
Monitor Battery (If Applicable)
If you’re using the optional battery mode, check the battery level in the app. Recharge or replace it before it dies completely to avoid downtime.
Review Recordings
Check your recorded clips periodically to ensure the doorbell is capturing what it should. Adjust angles or settings if needed.
Conclusion
Installing the Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation is a smart upgrade that enhances your home’s security and convenience. With the right preparation, tools, and attention to detail, the process is straightforward and rewarding. From checking compatibility to final app setup, each step brings you closer to a smarter, safer front door.
Remember to prioritize safety, follow the app’s guidance, and don’t hesitate to troubleshoot if something goes wrong. Most issues are fixable with a little patience and the tips in this guide. Once installed, you’ll enjoy instant alerts, crystal-clear video, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing who’s at your door—even when you’re not home.
Now go ahead, install your Arlo Doorbell 2nd Generation, and start enjoying the benefits of modern smart home technology!