How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell

Installing your Arlo Video Doorbell is easier than you think! This guide walks you through every step—from checking compatibility to final setup—so you can enjoy smart security in under an hour. No electrician needed if you’re replacing an existing doorbell.

Key Takeaways

• Check compatibility first: Ensure your current doorbell wiring and voltage meet Arlo’s requirements (16–24V AC) to avoid damage or malfunction.
• Use the right tools: A screwdriver, voltage tester, and drill (if mounting on brick or concrete) make installation smoother and safer.
• Follow the Arlo app closely: The app guides you through syncing, Wi-Fi setup, and testing—don’t skip any steps.
• Secure the mounting plate properly: A loose plate can cause motion detection issues or false alerts.
• Test before finalizing: Always test video, audio, motion, and night vision after installation to catch problems early.
• Keep the chime kit handy: If you have a mechanical chime, the included chime kit prevents voltage spikes and ensures reliable ringing.
• Update firmware regularly: After setup, check for updates in the Arlo app to keep your doorbell secure and feature-rich.

How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’ve decided to upgrade your front door with the Arlo Video Doorbell—smart choice! Whether you’re tired of missing packages, want to screen visitors remotely, or just love the idea of seeing who’s at your door from your phone, the Arlo Video Doorbell delivers crisp HD video, two-way audio, and smart motion alerts. And the best part? You can install it yourself—no need to call an electrician (unless you’re starting from scratch).

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of installing your Arlo Video Doorbell, from unboxing to final testing. We’ll cover everything: checking your home’s compatibility, gathering the right tools, safely removing your old doorbell, mounting the new one, connecting it to your Wi-Fi, and setting it up in the Arlo app. By the end, you’ll have a fully functional smart doorbell that keeps your home secure and gives you peace of mind.

Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

Before you touch a single screw, make sure you have everything you need. Rushing into installation without the right tools or information can lead to frustration—or worse, damage to your doorbell or wiring.

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Arlo Video Doorbell kit: Includes the doorbell, mounting plate, screws, anchors, chime kit (for mechanical chimes), and quick start guide.
• Screwdriver: A Phillips head is usually sufficient, but a flathead might help with stubborn screws.
• Voltage tester: Essential for confirming your doorbell transformer outputs 16–24V AC. You can get a non-contact tester for under $10.
• Drill and drill bits (optional): Only needed if mounting on brick, concrete, or hard surfaces.
• Smartphone or tablet: With the Arlo app installed (available on iOS and Android).
• Wi-Fi network: 2.4 GHz band required (Arlo doorbells don’t support 5 GHz-only networks).
• Ladder (if needed): For reaching high-mounted doorbells.

Pro tip: If you’re replacing an existing wired doorbell, you’re in luck—most homes already meet the voltage requirements. But if you’re installing from scratch (no existing wiring), you’ll need to run wires from a transformer, which is best left to a professional.

Step 1: Check Compatibility and Power Requirements

Not all doorbells are created equal, and Arlo’s video doorbell has specific power needs. Installing it on an incompatible system can cause poor performance, frequent disconnections, or even damage the device.

Check Your Existing Doorbell Wiring

Start by turning off power to your doorbell at the circuit breaker. Safety first! Once the power is off, remove the front cover of your current doorbell to expose the wires.

You should see two wires connected—usually labeled “Front” and “Trans” or just two bare ends. These carry low-voltage AC power from your transformer.

Test the Voltage

Use your voltage tester to check the voltage across these two wires. Set your multimeter to AC voltage (V~) and touch the probes to each wire.

Arlo recommends a voltage between 16V and 24V AC. If your reading is below 16V, the doorbell may not get enough power to function properly. If it’s above 24V, you risk overloading the device.

If your voltage is too low, you may need to upgrade your doorbell transformer. These are inexpensive (around $15–$25) and can be found at hardware stores. Just make sure it’s rated for doorbell use and matches your home’s electrical system.

Check Your Chime Type

Arlo Video Doorbell works with both mechanical and digital (electronic) chimes. However, if you have a mechanical chime (the kind with a physical bell that rings), you’ll need to install the included chime kit to prevent voltage spikes that could damage the doorbell.

Digital chimes usually don’t require the kit, but it’s safe to use it anyway. The chime kit acts as a buffer, regulating the power flow.

Step 2: Remove Your Old Doorbell

Now that you’ve confirmed compatibility, it’s time to remove the old doorbell.

Turn Off Power

Double-check that the power is off at the breaker. Even low-voltage systems can give a mild shock, so don’t skip this step.

Disconnect the Wires

Unscrew the terminals holding the wires. Gently pull the wires free, but don’t let them fall back into the wall. You can tape them to the wall or use a wire nut to cap them temporarily.

Remove the Mounting Plate

Unscrew the old mounting plate from the wall. If it’s painted over or stuck, use a utility knife to score around the edges before prying it off.

Clean the area to remove dust, paint flakes, or old adhesive. A clean surface ensures a strong bond for the new mounting plate.

Step 3: Install the Arlo Mounting Plate

The mounting plate is the backbone of your installation. If it’s not secure, your doorbell could wobble, tilt, or even fall off—leading to poor video angles or false motion alerts.

Position the Plate

Hold the Arlo mounting plate against the wall where you want the doorbell. Make sure it’s level—use a spirit level or the leveling tool in your smartphone.

The ideal height is about 48 inches from the ground, which gives a good view of visitors’ faces and packages.

Mark the Screw Holes

Use a pencil to mark where the screw holes will go. If you’re mounting on drywall, you can screw directly into the wall. But for brick, concrete, or tile, you’ll need wall anchors.

Drill Pilot Holes (If Needed)

If using anchors, drill pilot holes slightly smaller than the anchor size. Tap the anchors into place with a hammer.

Secure the Plate

Line up the plate with the holes and screw it in tightly. Don’t overtighten—this can crack the plastic or strip the screw holes.

Pro tip: If your wall is uneven, use the included angled mounting plate (if your model includes one) to adjust the angle for a straight view.

Step 4: Connect the Wires to the Arlo Doorbell

Now it’s time to connect your home’s wiring to the Arlo doorbell.

Prepare the Wires

Strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from the ends of the two doorbell wires if needed. This ensures a solid connection.

Attach the Wires

On the back of the Arlo doorbell, you’ll see two terminal screws. Loosen them slightly, then insert one wire under each screw. Tighten the screws to secure the wires.

It doesn’t matter which wire goes where—Arlo doorbells are not polarity-sensitive.

Install the Chime Kit (If Needed)

If you have a mechanical chime, now’s the time to install the chime kit. This small device connects in parallel with your existing chime wiring.

Turn off power again, then disconnect the wires from your indoor chime. Connect one wire to the “Front” terminal on the chime kit, and the other to the “Trans” terminal. Then reconnect the other ends to the chime as before.

The chime kit should be installed inside your chime box, usually located near your furnace or in a basement.

Step 5: Attach the Arlo Doorbell to the Mounting Plate

With the wires connected, it’s time to mount the doorbell.

Align the Doorbell

Hold the Arlo doorbell against the mounting plate. The two should snap together securely.

Secure with the Security Screw

Once snapped in, use the included security screw to lock the doorbell in place. This prevents theft or accidental removal.

Use the small Allen wrench provided to tighten the screw. Don’t lose it—you’ll need it to remove the doorbell later if needed.

Step 6: Turn Power Back On and Test the Doorbell

Now that everything is connected, restore power at the circuit breaker.

Listen for the Chime

Press the doorbell button. You should hear your indoor chime ring. If it doesn’t, double-check your wiring and chime kit installation.

Check for Power to the Doorbell

The Arlo doorbell should light up with a solid blue or white LED. If it doesn’t power on, recheck the voltage and connections.

Step 7: Set Up the Arlo App

The Arlo app is your control center for the doorbell. It handles Wi-Fi setup, notifications, recording settings, and more.

Download and Open the Arlo App

If you haven’t already, download the Arlo app from the App Store or Google Play. Create an account or log in if you already have one.

Add a New Device

Tap the “+” icon and select “Add Device.” Choose “Video Doorbell” from the list.

Scan the QR Code

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

Connect to Wi-Fi

The app will guide you through connecting the doorbell to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. Make sure you’re close to your router for a strong signal.

Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted. The doorbell will attempt to connect—this may take a minute or two.

Complete Setup

Follow the on-screen prompts to name your doorbell (e.g., “Front Door”), set up motion zones, and choose notification preferences.

You can also enable features like:

• Package Detection: Get alerts when a package is delivered.
• Person Detection: Only notify you when a person is detected, not pets or cars.
• Night Vision: Automatically activates in low light.
• Two-Way Audio: Speak to visitors through your phone.

Step 8: Test All Features

Before you call the job done, test everything to make sure it’s working properly.

Test the Video Feed

Open the Arlo app and view the live feed. Check for clarity, field of view, and any blind spots.

Test Two-Way Audio

Press the talk button in the app and speak. Have someone near the doorbell listen—audio should be clear with minimal delay.

Test Motion Detection

Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion. You should receive a notification within a few seconds.

Adjust motion zones in the app if you’re getting too many false alerts (e.g., from passing cars or tree branches).

Test Night Vision

Turn off the lights or wait for dusk. The doorbell should switch to night vision mode automatically, showing a clear black-and-white image.

Test the Doorbell Button

Press the button again. You should hear the chime, see a notification on your phone, and be able to answer the call.

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

Even with careful installation, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.

Doorbell Won’t Power On

• Check that power is restored at the breaker.
• Verify voltage is between 16–24V AC.
• Ensure wires are securely connected and not loose.
• Try reseating the doorbell on the mounting plate.

Wi-Fi Connection Fails

• Make sure you’re using a 2.4 GHz network (not 5 GHz).
• Move closer to the router during setup.
• Restart your router and try again.
• Forget the network on your phone and reconnect.

Chime Doesn’t Ring

• Confirm the chime kit is installed correctly (for mechanical chimes).
• Check that wires are connected to the right terminals.
• Test the chime with the old doorbell to rule out a faulty chime.

Video is Blurry or Laggy

• Check your Wi-Fi signal strength at the doorbell location.
• Reduce interference by moving cordless phones or microwaves away.
• Update the Arlo app and doorbell firmware.

False Motion Alerts

• Adjust motion zones in the app to exclude busy areas.
• Lower motion sensitivity if pets or wind triggers alerts.
• Ensure the doorbell is securely mounted—vibration can cause false triggers.

Maintenance and Tips for Long-Term Use

Your Arlo Video Doorbell is built to last, but a little maintenance goes a long way.

Clean the Lens Regularly

Dust, dirt, and spiderwebs can block the camera. Wipe the lens gently with a microfiber cloth every few weeks.

Update Firmware

Arlo regularly releases updates to improve performance and security. Check for updates in the app under Device Settings > Firmware.

Check Battery (If Applicable)

Some Arlo doorbells are battery-powered. If yours is, monitor the battery level in the app and recharge or replace as needed.

Review Recordings

Set up cloud recording (via Arlo Secure plan) to save videos. Review them periodically to ensure everything is working.

Secure Your Account

Use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication in the Arlo app to protect your privacy.

Conclusion

Installing your Arlo Video Doorbell is a smart upgrade that enhances your home’s security and convenience. With the right preparation, tools, and attention to detail, you can complete the installation in under an hour—no professional help required.

From checking voltage and mounting the plate to syncing with the app and testing features, each step brings you closer to a smarter, safer front door. And if you run into issues, the troubleshooting tips above will help you get back on track.

Now that your doorbell is up and running, enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing who’s at your door—even when you’re not home. Whether it’s a delivery person, a neighbor, or a curious squirrel, your Arlo Video Doorbell has got you covered.

Welcome to the future of home security!