This guide walks you through how to install Ring Video Doorbell 2 using a wedge to improve camera angle and motion detection. You’ll get clear steps, pro tips, and solutions to common issues.
Key Takeaways
- Use a wedge to adjust the viewing angle: The Ring wedge helps tilt the doorbell for better coverage of your walkway or driveway.
- Turn off power before installation: Always shut off the circuit breaker to avoid electrical shock when working with existing doorbell wiring.
- Check Wi-Fi signal strength: Ensure your doorbell location has strong Wi-Fi (at least -65 dBm) for reliable video streaming and alerts.
- Secure mounting is essential: Tighten all screws and test the doorbell’s stability to prevent wobbling or theft.
- Test after installation: Use the Ring app to check video quality, motion zones, and two-way audio before finishing.
- Use the right tools: A Phillips screwdriver, drill (if needed), and voltage tester make the job easier and safer.
- Adjust settings in the app: Customize motion sensitivity, notifications, and chime settings for the best experience.
How to Install Ring Video Doorbell 2 Using Wedge
So, you’ve got your hands on a Ring Video Doorbell 2 and you’re ready to upgrade your home security. Great choice! But you’ve noticed that the standard mounting might not give you the best view of your front walk or driveway. That’s where the Ring wedge mount comes in. This simple accessory lets you angle your doorbell for optimal coverage, reducing blind spots and improving motion detection.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through how to install Ring Video Doorbell 2 using a wedge—step by step. Whether you’re replacing an old doorbell or installing one for the first time, we’ve got you covered. You’ll learn how to safely mount the wedge, connect the wiring, secure the doorbell, and fine-tune settings in the Ring app. Plus, we’ll share practical tips and troubleshooting advice to make the process smooth and stress-free.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a professionally angled Ring doorbell that gives you a clear view of visitors, packages, and any activity at your front door. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Visual guide about How to Install Ring Video 2 Doorbell Using Wedge
Image source: 1.bp.blogspot.com
Before you begin, gather all the tools and materials. Having everything ready will save time and prevent frustration.
Tools and Materials
- Ring Video Doorbell 2
- Ring wedge mount (sold separately or included in some kits)
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Drill with drill bits (if mounting into brick, concrete, or hard surfaces)
- Voltage tester (optional but recommended)
- Wire strippers (if wires are damaged or too short)
- Level (to ensure the wedge is straight)
- Pencil or marker
- Screws and wall anchors (usually included with the wedge)
- Smartphone with the Ring app installed
Optional but Helpful
- Helper (to hold the doorbell while you wire it)
- Electrical tape
- Ladder (if mounting high)
- Wi-Fi signal booster (if your front door has weak signal)
Pro tip: If you’re unsure about your doorbell’s wiring or voltage, consult an electrician. Safety first!
Step 1: Turn Off Power to the Doorbell
Safety is the most important part of any electrical installation. Before touching any wires, you must turn off the power.
Locate Your Circuit Breaker
Go to your home’s main electrical panel. Look for the breaker labeled “doorbell,” “chime,” or something similar. If you can’t find it, turn off the main breaker to be safe.
Test the Wires
Use a voltage tester to check the existing doorbell wires. Touch one probe to each wire. If the tester lights up or beeps, power is still on—double-check your breaker.
Remove the Old Doorbell
Unscrew the old doorbell from the wall. Gently pull it away to expose the two wires. Don’t cut them—just loosen the screws and remove the wires. Wrap the wire ends with electrical tape to prevent them from touching.
Important: Never work on live wires. Even low-voltage doorbell circuits can cause a shock or damage your Ring device.
Step 2: Prepare the Wedge Mount
The wedge mount allows you to angle your Ring doorbell between 5° and 30° for better coverage. It’s perfect if your doorbell is mounted too high, too low, or pointing straight ahead.
Choose the Right Wedge Angle
Decide how much tilt you need:
- 5° wedge: Slight downward angle—good for most standard installations.
- 15° wedge: Moderate angle—ideal for driveways or long walkways.
- 30° wedge: Steep angle—best for high mounts or wide areas.
Most people use the 15° wedge for balanced coverage.
Attach the Wedge to the Mounting Plate
The Ring wedge comes with a mounting plate. Align the wedge with the plate and secure it using the provided screws. Make sure it’s tight and doesn’t wobble.
Mark the Mounting Holes
Hold the wedge and 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.
Tip: If your doorbell is replacing an old one, the existing holes might not align with the wedge. You may need to drill new ones.
Step 3: Drill Holes and Install the Wedge
Now it’s time to secure the wedge to the wall.
Drill Pilot Holes
If you’re mounting into wood, drywall, or soft material, drill pilot holes slightly smaller than the screws. This prevents cracking.
For brick, concrete, or stucco:
- Use a masonry drill bit.
- Drill slowly to avoid overheating.
- Insert wall anchors into the holes for a secure fit.
Secure the Wedge
Line up the wedge with the pilot holes. Insert the screws and tighten them with a screwdriver. Don’t overtighten—this can crack the plastic or strip the screw.
Check that the wedge is level and firmly attached. Give it a gentle tug to test stability.
Step 4: Connect the Wires to the Ring Doorbell
With the wedge in place, it’s time to wire up your Ring Video Doorbell 2.
Prepare the Wires
Remove the electrical tape from the wire ends. If the wires are frayed or too short, strip about 1/4 inch of insulation using wire strippers.
Attach Wires to the Doorbell
On the back of the Ring doorbell, you’ll see two terminals labeled “Front” and “Trans.” It doesn’t matter which wire goes where—just connect one wire to each terminal.
Loosen the screws, insert the wires, and tighten them securely. Make sure no bare wire is exposed outside the terminals.
Secure the Doorbell to the Wedge
Hold the doorbell against the wedge. Align the mounting holes on the doorbell with the screws on the wedge. Slide the doorbell down until it clicks into place.
Use the security screw (included) to lock the doorbell in place. This prevents theft and ensures it stays secure.
Pro tip: If the wires are too tight, gently bend them to relieve strain. Don’t pull hard—this can damage the connections.
Step 5: Turn Power Back On and Test
Now that everything is connected, restore power and test the system.
Turn On the Breaker
Go back to your electrical panel and flip the breaker back on. Wait about 30 seconds for the doorbell to power up.
Check the Doorbell Light
The Ring doorbell has a light ring on the front. When powered, it should glow solid white or blink slowly. If it doesn’t light up, double-check your wiring and breaker.
Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone. If you haven’t set up the doorbell yet, follow the on-screen instructions to add a new device.
If you’ve already set it up, the app should detect the doorbell automatically.
Test the Video and Audio
Tap “Live View” to see the camera feed. Check for:
- Clear, sharp video
- Proper angle (no sky or ground dominating the view)
- Working two-way audio (tap the microphone icon and speak)
If the video is blurry or the audio is choppy, you may need to adjust Wi-Fi settings or move your router.
Step 6: Adjust Settings in the Ring App
The Ring app lets you customize your doorbell for the best performance.
Set Up Motion Zones
Go to Device Settings > Motion Settings > Motion Zones. Draw zones where you want motion detection (e.g., walkway, driveway). Avoid areas like busy streets to reduce false alerts.
Adjust Motion Sensitivity
Choose from Low, Medium, or High. Start with Medium and adjust based on how many alerts you get.
Enable Smart Alerts
Turn on Person Detection to get alerts only when a person is detected—not cars or animals.
Set Up Chime
If you have a Ring Chime or Chime Pro, pair it in the app. You can also use your existing mechanical chime if compatible.
Enable Night Vision and Pre-Roll
These features improve video quality in low light and show a few seconds before motion is detected.
Step 7: Final Checks and Tips
Before you call it a day, do a few final checks.
Check Wi-Fi Signal
In the Ring app, go to Device Health. Look at the Signal Strength. It should be “Good” or “Great” (above -65 dBm). If it’s weak:
- Move your router closer
- Use a Wi-Fi extender
- Consider a Ring Chime Pro (acts as a Wi-Fi booster)
Test the Doorbell Button
Press the button to make sure it rings your chime and sends a notification to your phone.
Clean the Lens
Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the camera lens. Avoid liquids or abrasive materials.
Secure All Screws
Double-check that the wedge, mounting plate, and doorbell are tightly secured. Loose parts can cause vibration or damage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, problems can happen. Here’s how to fix the most common ones.
Doorbell Won’t Power On
- Check the breaker—make sure it’s on.
- Test the wires with a voltage tester.
- Ensure wires are tightly connected to the terminals.
- Try a different transformer (if voltage is too low).
Weak Wi-Fi Signal
- Move your router closer to the front door.
- Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network.
- Switch to a 2.4 GHz network (Ring doesn’t support 5 GHz).
Blurry or Dark Video
- Clean the lens.
- Adjust the angle—too much tilt can cause glare.
- Enable night vision in the app.
- Install a doorbell with a built-in light (like Ring Doorbell Pro).
False Motion Alerts
- Narrow the motion zones.
- Lower motion sensitivity.
- Turn off motion detection at night if not needed.
Doorbell Falls Off
- Make sure the security screw is tightened.
- Check that the wedge is firmly mounted.
- Use longer or stronger screws for brick or concrete.
Conclusion
Installing your Ring Video Doorbell 2 using a wedge is a smart way to improve visibility and security. By angling the camera correctly, you get better coverage of your entryway, fewer blind spots, and more accurate motion detection.
We’ve covered everything from turning off power and mounting the wedge to wiring the doorbell, testing the system, and adjusting settings in the app. With the right tools and a little patience, you can do this installation yourself in under an hour.
Remember: safety first, double-check your connections, and always test after installation. If you run into issues, the Ring support team and online community are great resources.
Now that your doorbell is perfectly angled and working smoothly, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ll never miss a visitor, delivery, or unexpected event at your front door.
Welcome to smarter home security!