This guide walks you through how to install Ring Doorbell Plus Wired safely and correctly. You’ll learn everything from checking compatibility to final testing, with expert tips for a seamless experience.
Key Takeaways
- Check compatibility first: Ensure your existing doorbell wiring and voltage meet Ring’s requirements to avoid damage or poor performance.
- Gather the right tools: You’ll need a screwdriver, voltage tester, drill (optional), and the included installation kit for a smooth setup.
- Turn off power safely: Always shut off the breaker before working with electrical wiring to prevent shocks or short circuits.
- Use the Ring app for setup: The app guides you through Wi-Fi connection, device registration, and feature customization after installation.
- Secure mounting is key: Properly angle and tighten the doorbell to ensure optimal motion detection and video quality.
- Test before finishing: Verify live view, motion alerts, and chime functionality before completing the installation.
- Troubleshoot common issues: Learn how to fix Wi-Fi drops, low voltage, or syncing problems with simple fixes.
How to Install Ring Doorbell Plus Wired: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve decided to upgrade your home security with the Ring Doorbell Plus Wired—smart choice! This sleek, feature-packed doorbell offers 1080p HD video, two-way talk, motion detection, and seamless integration with the Ring app. Unlike battery-powered models, the Wired version connects directly to your existing doorbell wiring, giving you continuous power and reliable performance.
But before you start drilling holes or fiddling with wires, it’s important to know that installing a wired doorbell isn’t quite as simple as swapping out a battery. You’ll need to work with electrical components, ensure compatibility, and follow safety steps carefully. Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through every step, from preparation to final testing, so you can install your Ring Doorbell Plus Wired like a pro.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a fully functional smart doorbell that enhances your home’s security and convenience. Whether you’re a DIY beginner or a seasoned home improver, we’ve got you covered with clear instructions, helpful tips, and troubleshooting advice.
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
Visual guide about How to Install Ring Doorbell Plus Wired
Image source: i.ytimg.com
Before you touch a single screw, take a moment to gather all the tools and materials you’ll need. Having everything ready will save you time and frustration mid-installation.
Here’s your checklist:
- Ring Doorbell Plus Wired (obviously!)
- Existing doorbell wiring (must be present and accessible)
- Voltage tester (to check if power is off and verify voltage)
- Screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead)
- Drill and drill bits (optional, for mounting if needed)
- Level (to ensure your doorbell is straight)
- Pencil or marker (for marking drill points)
- Smartphone or tablet (with the Ring app installed)
- Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz required; 5 GHz not supported)
Most of these items come in the Ring installation kit, but it’s good to double-check. The Ring Doorbell Plus Wired package includes mounting screws, anchors, a screwdriver bit, a wire harness, and a leveling tool. If anything’s missing, contact Ring support before proceeding.
Step 1: Check Compatibility and Power Requirements
Not every home is ready for a wired Ring Doorbell. Before you start, you need to confirm that your current doorbell system is compatible.
Check Your Existing Doorbell Wiring
First, locate your existing doorbell. It’s usually mounted next to your front door. Carefully remove the old doorbell button by unscrewing it from the wall. You should see two wires connected to the back.
These wires carry low-voltage power from your transformer (usually located near your breaker box, furnace, or doorbell chime) to the doorbell. The Ring Doorbell Plus Wired needs these wires to stay connected to function.
If there are no wires, or if the wires are damaged or disconnected, you may need to run new wiring or consider a battery-powered Ring model instead.
Test the Voltage
This is crucial. The Ring Doorbell Plus Wired requires a power supply between 8V AC and 24V AC, with at least 16V AC recommended for optimal performance.
To test the voltage:
- Turn off the power at the breaker (we’ll cover this in detail next).
- Use a multimeter or voltage tester to measure the voltage across the two doorbell wires.
- If the reading is below 8V or above 24V, your doorbell may not work properly or could be damaged.
If your voltage is too low, you may need to upgrade your doorbell transformer. Ring sells a compatible 16V transformer if needed. If it’s too high, consult an electrician—don’t risk frying your new doorbell.
Check Your Chime Compatibility
The Ring Doorbell Plus Wired works with both mechanical (ding-dong) and digital (electronic) chimes. However, if you have a digital chime, make sure it’s compatible. Ring provides a compatibility checker on their website—just enter your chime model number.
If your chime isn’t compatible, you can still use the doorbell, but the physical chime won’t ring. Instead, you’ll rely on the Ring app notifications and optional Ring Chime or Chime Pro for indoor alerts.
Step 2: Turn Off the Power
Safety first! Working with electricity is no joke. Even though doorbell wires carry low voltage, they can still cause shocks or short circuits if mishandled.
Locate Your Breaker Box
Find your home’s main electrical panel (breaker box). It’s usually in the basement, garage, or utility closet. Look for a breaker labeled “doorbell,” “chime,” or something similar. If you can’t find it, turn off the main breaker to be safe—but this will cut power to your entire home, so plan accordingly.
Turn Off the Correct Breaker
Switch off the breaker that controls your doorbell circuit. To confirm it’s off, go back to your doorbell and press the button. If the chime doesn’t sound, the power is off.
For extra safety, use your voltage tester again on the doorbell wires to ensure no current is flowing.
Label the Wires (Optional but Helpful)
Before disconnecting anything, take a photo of the wiring setup or label the wires with tape (e.g., “Front Door” or “Transformer”). This makes reconnection easier later.
Step 3: Remove the Old Doorbell
Now that the power is off, it’s time to remove your existing doorbell.
Unscrew the Old Button
Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the old doorbell button to the wall. Gently pull the button away from the wall so you can access the wires.
Disconnect the Wires
Loosen the terminal screws on the back of the old doorbell and carefully remove the two wires. Don’t let them fall back into the wall—use tape to hold them in place if needed.
Inspect the Wiring
Check the wire ends for damage, corrosion, or fraying. If they’re in bad shape, trim them back with wire strippers to expose fresh copper. You’ll need about 1/4 inch of bare wire for a secure connection.
Step 4: Prepare the Ring Doorbell Plus Wired
Now it’s time to get your new Ring Doorbell ready for installation.
Unbox and Inspect
Open the Ring package and make sure all components are present:
- Ring Doorbell Plus Wired unit
- Mounting bracket
- Screws and wall anchors
- Wire harness (small plastic connector)
- Screwdriver bit
- Leveling tool
Attach the Wire Harness
The wire harness makes connecting your doorbell wires easier and safer. Here’s how to use it:
- Take the two wires from your wall and strip about 1/4 inch of insulation off the ends.
- Insert each wire into the corresponding slot on the wire harness (usually labeled “Front” and “Trans”).
- Tighten the screws on the harness to secure the wires.
The wire harness has two output wires with spade connectors. These will plug directly into the back of the Ring Doorbell.
Choose the Right Mounting Bracket
The Ring Doorbell Plus Wired comes with two mounting options:
- Standard bracket: For flat surfaces.
- Wedge bracket: For angled mounting (if your doorbell is on a corner or needs better camera angle).
If your doorbell is on a flat wall, use the standard bracket. If it’s on a corner or you want to angle the camera downward for better motion detection, use the wedge bracket.
Attach the chosen bracket to the back of the Ring Doorbell using the provided screws.
Step 5: Mount the Ring Doorbell
Now it’s time to secure your new doorbell to the wall.
Position the Doorbell
Hold the Ring Doorbell (with the bracket attached) against the wall where you want to install it. Use the included leveling tool or a standard level to make sure it’s straight.
The ideal height is about 48 inches from the ground—this gives the best view of visitors and packages.
Mark the Screw Holes
Once positioned, use a pencil to mark the screw holes on the wall through the mounting bracket.
Drill Pilot Holes (If Needed)
If you’re mounting into wood or a material that doesn’t require anchors, you can skip this step. But for drywall, brick, or stucco, drill pilot holes using a drill bit slightly smaller than your screws.
Insert wall anchors if needed—this provides extra support and prevents the doorbell from loosening over time.
Secure the Bracket
Line up the bracket with the pilot holes and screw it into place using the provided screws. Don’t overtighten—this can crack the bracket or damage the wall.
Connect the Wires
Now, connect the two spade connectors from the wire harness to the terminals on the back of the Ring Doorbell. It doesn’t matter which wire goes where—the doorbell is not polarity-sensitive.
Push the connectors firmly onto the terminals until they click into place.
Attach the Doorbell to the Bracket
Slide the Ring Doorbell onto the mounted bracket until it clicks securely. You should hear a satisfying snap when it’s locked in.
Step 6: Restore Power and Test
You’re almost done! Now it’s time to turn the power back on and test your installation.
Turn the Breaker Back On
Go back to your breaker box and flip the doorbell breaker back to the “on” position.
Check for Power
Look at the Ring Doorbell. You should see a light on the front—usually a white or blue LED—indicating it’s receiving power.
If the light doesn’t come on, double-check your wiring connections and breaker status.
Test the Chime
Press the doorbell button. Your indoor chime should ring (if compatible). If it doesn’t, check your chime compatibility or consider adding a Ring Chime.
Step 7: Set Up the Ring App
The final step is connecting your doorbell to your smartphone via the Ring app.
Download the Ring App
If you haven’t already, download the Ring app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Create an account or log in if you already have one.
Add Your Device
Open the app and tap the “+” icon to add a new device. Select “Doorbells” and then “Ring Video Doorbell Plus (Wired).”
Follow the on-screen instructions. The app will guide you through:
- Scanning the QR code on the back of your doorbell
- Connecting to your Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz only)
- Setting up motion zones and alerts
- Customizing notification preferences
Test Live View and Two-Way Talk
Once connected, tap the live view button in the app. You should see a real-time video feed from your doorbell.
Test the two-way talk feature by speaking through the app—you should hear your voice through the doorbell’s speaker, and visitors should hear you clearly.
Adjust Settings
Take time to customize your settings:
- Motion Zones: Define areas where you want motion alerts (e.g., driveway but not sidewalk).
- Motion Sensitivity: Adjust how sensitive the doorbell is to movement.
- Chime Settings: Choose whether the physical chime rings, app notifications only, or both.
- Night Vision: Ensure it’s enabled for clear nighttime footage.
Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
Even with careful installation, you might run into a few hiccups. Here’s how to fix the most common problems.
Doorbell Won’t Power On
- Check that the breaker is on.
- Verify wire connections are secure.
- Test voltage again—low voltage can prevent startup.
- Ensure the wire harness is properly attached.
Chime Doesn’t Ring
- Confirm your chime is compatible with Ring.
- Check wiring at the chime unit inside your home.
- Try bypassing the chime with a Ring Chime or Chime Pro.
Poor Wi-Fi Connection
- Ensure you’re using a 2.4 GHz network (5 GHz not supported).
- Move your router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Check for interference from other devices.
Blurry or Dark Video
- Clean the camera lens with a soft cloth.
- Adjust the doorbell angle for better lighting.
- Ensure night vision is enabled in the app.
Doorbell Disconnects Frequently
- Check for loose wires.
- Update the Ring app and firmware.
- Reset the doorbell by holding the setup button for 20 seconds.
Final Tips for a Successful Installation
- Take your time: Rushing can lead to mistakes. Follow each step carefully.
- Use the app’s help section: Ring’s in-app support has videos and FAQs for common issues.
- Consider professional help: If you’re unsure about electrical work, hire a licensed electrician.
- Keep your receipt: Ring offers a 1-year warranty—keep proof of purchase handy.
- Update regularly: Ring frequently releases firmware updates for improved performance and security.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed your Ring Doorbell Plus Wired. You now have a powerful, always-on security device that keeps you connected to your home, no matter where you are.
From checking compatibility and turning off the power to mounting the unit and setting up the app, you’ve completed every step with confidence. Remember, a proper installation ensures reliable performance, clear video, and accurate motion alerts.
If you ever run into issues, don’t hesitate to consult the Ring support team or revisit this guide. With your new smart doorbell in place, you’re one step closer to a safer, smarter home.
Welcome to the Ring family—your front door just got a whole lot smarter.