Installing an Arlo doorbell with your existing chime is easier than you think. This guide walks you through every step—from checking compatibility to final testing—so you can enjoy smart features without replacing your current doorbell system.
Key Takeaways
- Check compatibility first: Not all mechanical or digital chimes work with Arlo doorbells—verify your chime type before starting.
- Turn off power at the breaker: Safety is critical—always shut off electricity before handling wires.
- Use the right tools: A voltage tester, screwdriver, and wire strippers make installation smoother and safer.
- Follow Arlo’s app guidance: The Arlo app provides real-time setup instructions and helps sync your device properly.
- Test the chime after install: Ensure both the Arlo doorbell and existing chime ring correctly before finishing.
- Troubleshoot common issues: No sound? Loose wires or incompatible transformers are often the culprits.
- Keep your old doorbell as backup: Store it safely in case you need to revert during troubleshooting.
Introduction: Why Upgrade to an Arlo Doorbell?
Smart doorbells are no longer just a luxury—they’re a practical upgrade for home security, convenience, and peace of mind. The Arlo Video Doorbell offers HD video, two-way audio, motion detection, and instant alerts straight to your phone. But what if you already have a working doorbell chime you love? You don’t need to ditch it!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you exactly how to install an Arlo doorbell with your existing chime. Whether you have a traditional mechanical chime or a newer digital one, we’ll walk you through compatibility checks, wiring steps, app setup, and troubleshooting. By the end, you’ll have a fully functional smart doorbell that works seamlessly with your current system—no rewiring nightmares or expensive electrician fees required.
This guide is designed for DIYers of all skill levels. We use simple language, clear visuals (in your mind!), and practical tips to make the process stress-free. So grab your tools, turn off the power, and let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Before you begin, gather these essential tools and materials. Having everything ready saves time and prevents mid-installation trips to the hardware store.
Visual guide about How to Install Arlo Doorbell with Existing Chime
Image source: i.ytimg.com
Tools & Materials Checklist
- Arlo Video Doorbell (wired version)
- Existing doorbell chime (mechanical or digital)
- Voltage tester (non-contact type recommended)
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
- Wire strippers
- Electrical tape
- Smartphone with Arlo app installed
- Ladder (if your doorbell is high up)
- Optional: Wire nuts, electrical connectors, or terminal screws
Pro Tip: If your existing doorbell wires are frayed or too short, consider purchasing a doorbell wire extension kit. These are inexpensive and widely available online or at hardware stores.
Step 1: Check Compatibility with Your Existing Chime
Not all doorbell chimes are compatible with the Arlo wired doorbell. Installing it on an incompatible system can result in no sound, intermittent ringing, or even damage to your devices. So, before you touch a single wire, let’s make sure your setup will work.
Understand Your Chime Type
There are two main types of doorbell chimes:
- Mechanical Chimes: These use an electromagnet to strike a physical bell or bar. They’re common in older homes and typically produce a classic “ding-dong” sound.
- Digital Chimes: These use electronic circuits to play recorded sounds. They often have multiple tones and are found in newer homes.
Arlo doorbells are designed to work with most mechanical chimes and many digital ones—but not all. The key factor is the transformer voltage and whether the chime can handle the low-voltage signal from the Arlo device.
Check Your Transformer Voltage
The transformer steps down your home’s 120V power to a safer 8–24V for the doorbell circuit. Arlo recommends a transformer rated between 16V and 24V AC with at least 10VA (volt-amperes) of power.
To check your transformer:
- Locate your doorbell transformer. It’s usually near your electrical panel, in the basement, attic, or garage.
- Look for a label that lists voltage (V) and VA. For example: “16V 10VA” or “24V 20VA.”
- If it’s within the 16–24V range and at least 10VA, you’re good to go.
Warning: If your transformer is below 16V or above 24V, do not proceed without upgrading it. Using an incompatible transformer can damage your Arlo doorbell or prevent it from working.
Test Your Existing Chime
Press your current doorbell button and listen carefully. Does it ring clearly and consistently? If it’s weak, intermittent, or silent, there may already be wiring or power issues that need fixing before installing Arlo.
Also, check if your chime has a “front” and “rear” terminal. Most mechanical chimes do. The Arlo doorbell connects to the same terminals as your old button, so this matters for wiring.
Compatibility Note: Some digital chimes with complex circuitry (like those with Wi-Fi or multiple zones) may not work reliably with Arlo. If your chime has a display, app control, or unusual wiring, consult Arlo’s compatibility list or contact support before installing.
Step 2: Turn Off Power and Remove Old Doorbell
Safety first! Working with electricity—even low-voltage doorbell wires—can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Always turn off the power at the source.
Shut Off the Circuit Breaker
Go to your main electrical panel and locate the breaker that controls your doorbell circuit. It may be labeled “Doorbell,” “Chime,” or simply “Lighting.” If unsure, turn off the main breaker to be safe.
Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the power is off. Touch the tester to the doorbell wires at the button location. If it doesn’t beep or light up, you’re safe to proceed.
Remove the Old Doorbell Button
Now, carefully remove your existing doorbell button:
- Unscrew the mounting plate from the wall.
- Gently pull the button away to expose the two wires connected to it.
- Take a photo of the wiring setup for reference.
- Loosen the terminal screws and disconnect the wires.
- Cap the exposed wire ends with wire nuts or electrical tape to prevent shorting.
Pro Tip: Label the wires (e.g., “Front” and “Transformer”) with tape so you know which goes where when installing the Arlo doorbell.
Step 3: Prepare the Arlo Doorbell for Installation
With the old button removed and wires safely capped, it’s time to get your Arlo doorbell ready. The Arlo wired doorbell comes with a mounting plate, screws, and a wire connector. Let’s prep it for mounting.
Assemble the Mounting Plate
The Arlo doorbell uses a special mounting plate that holds the device securely and hides the wires. Here’s how to set it up:
- Place the mounting plate against the wall where you want to install the doorbell.
- Use a level to ensure it’s straight.
- Mark the screw holes with a pencil.
- Drill pilot holes if needed (especially for brick or stucco).
- Secure the plate with the provided screws.
Note: The Arlo doorbell can be installed vertically or at a slight angle for better camera coverage. If your door is recessed or you want a wider view, consider using the optional angled mounting wedge (sold separately).
Connect the Wires to the Arlo Doorbell
Now, connect your existing doorbell wires to the Arlo device:
- Strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from each wire end if needed.
- Insert the wires into the terminal slots on the back of the Arlo doorbell.
- Tighten the terminal screws to secure the connections.
- Ensure no bare wire is exposed outside the terminals.
Important: The Arlo doorbell is not polarity-sensitive, so it doesn’t matter which wire goes to which terminal. However, keep them separate to avoid shorting.
If your wires are too short or damaged, use the included wire connector to extend them. Simply twist the wires together, insert them into the connector, and snap it shut.
Step 4: Mount the Arlo Doorbell and Restore Power
With the wires connected and the mounting plate in place, it’s time to attach the Arlo doorbell and restore power.
Attach the Doorbell to the Mounting Plate
Align the Arlo doorbell with the mounting plate and slide it down until it clicks into place. You should hear a secure snap. Gently tug on the device to ensure it’s firmly attached.
Pro Tip: If the fit feels loose, double-check that the plate is level and the screws are tight. A wobbly doorbell can affect video quality and motion detection.
Restore Power and Test the Chime
Go back to your electrical panel and turn the breaker back on. Wait about 30 seconds for the system to power up.
Now, press the Arlo doorbell button. You should hear your existing chime ring. If it does, great! The wiring is correct and the chime is compatible.
If the chime doesn’t ring, don’t panic—we’ll troubleshoot that in a moment. First, let’s set up the Arlo app.
Step 5: Set Up the Arlo App and Connect to Wi-Fi
The Arlo app is your control center for the doorbell. It handles setup, notifications, video recording, and more. Let’s get it configured.
Download and Open the Arlo App
If you haven’t already, download the Arlo Secure app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Create an account or log in if you have one.
Add Your Doorbell to the App
Follow these steps in the app:
- Tap the “+” icon to add a new device.
- Select “Video Doorbell” and then “Wired Doorbell.”
- Scan the QR code on the back of your Arlo doorbell or enter the serial number manually.
- The app will search for the device. Make sure your phone is connected to your home Wi-Fi.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to connect the doorbell to your network.
Wi-Fi Tip: Arlo doorbells require a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. They do not support 5 GHz. If your router broadcasts both, ensure your phone is on the 2.4 GHz band during setup.
Complete the Setup
Once connected, the app will guide you through:
- Setting up motion zones
- Adjusting notification preferences
- Enabling two-way audio
- Configuring video recording (cloud or local)
Take your time with these settings. You can always change them later, but it’s best to get them right the first time.
Step 6: Test Everything and Fine-Tune
Now that your Arlo doorbell is installed and connected, it’s time to test all features and make adjustments.
Test the Doorbell and Chime
Press the button again. Confirm that:
- The chime rings clearly
- You receive a notification on your phone
- The live video feed opens in the app
- Two-way audio works (speak and listen)
If any of these fail, check the troubleshooting section below.
Adjust Motion Sensitivity
By default, Arlo doorbells are very sensitive to motion. You may get alerts for passing cars, wind-blown leaves, or even shadows. To reduce false alarms:
- Open the Arlo app.
- Go to your doorbell settings.
- Tap “Motion Settings” and adjust the sensitivity slider.
- Define motion zones to focus on your walkway or porch.
Pro Tip: Test motion detection by walking in front of the doorbell. Watch the app to see when alerts trigger. Fine-tune until you get reliable, relevant notifications.
Check Night Vision and Video Quality
Test the doorbell at night or in low light. The Arlo doorbell has infrared night vision, so you should see clear black-and-white video even in total darkness.
If the image is grainy or too dark, ensure the lens is clean and there are no obstructions (like a screen door or overhang) blocking the view.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, problems can happen. Here’s how to fix the most common issues when installing an Arlo doorbell with an existing chime.
Chime Doesn’t Ring
Possible Causes:
- Loose or incorrect wiring
- Incompatible transformer
- Faulty chime
- Arlo doorbell not receiving power
Solutions:
- Double-check wire connections at both the doorbell and chime.
- Use a voltage tester to confirm power at the doorbell terminals.
- Test the chime with your old doorbell button. If it still doesn’t work, the chime or transformer may be faulty.
- Replace the transformer if it’s below 16V or above 24V.
Arlo App Can’t Find the Doorbell
Possible Causes:
- Wi-Fi signal is weak
- Phone is on 5 GHz network
- Doorbell isn’t powered on
Solutions:
- Move closer to your router or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Ensure your phone is connected to the 2.4 GHz network.
- Check that the breaker is on and the doorbell has power (look for a small LED light).
Video Freezes or Buffers
This is usually a Wi-Fi issue. Try:
- Rebooting your router
- Moving the doorbell closer to the router
- Reducing interference from other devices
- Upgrading to a mesh Wi-Fi system for better coverage
Two-Way Audio Doesn’t Work
Check your phone’s volume and microphone permissions. Also, ensure the doorbell isn’t muted in the app. If problems persist, reinstall the app or contact Arlo support.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Smart Doorbell Setup
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed your Arlo doorbell with your existing chime. You now have the best of both worlds: the reliability of your current chime system and the advanced features of a smart doorbell.
Remember, the key to a smooth installation is preparation—checking compatibility, turning off power, and following the steps carefully. If you run into issues, don’t hesitate to revisit the troubleshooting section or reach out to Arlo’s customer support.
With your new setup, you’ll enjoy instant alerts, crystal-clear video, and the ability to see and speak to visitors from anywhere. Whether you’re home or away, your front door is now smarter and more secure.
So go ahead—ring that bell, test the camera, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a properly installed Arlo doorbell. Welcome to the future of home security!