This guide walks you through how to install Ring Video Doorbell Wired with Ring Chime, from turning off power to final app setup. You’ll get clear, step-by-step instructions with helpful tips to ensure a smooth, safe installation.
Key Takeaways
- Turn off power at the breaker: Always shut off electricity before working on doorbell wiring to prevent shocks or damage.
- Use the Ring Chime for audio alerts: The Ring Chime enhances your doorbell by providing loud, customizable sounds inside your home.
- Download the Ring app first: The app is essential for setup, configuration, and live viewing of your doorbell feed.
- Check Wi-Fi signal strength: Place your doorbell within range of your router or use a Wi-Fi extender for reliable connectivity.
- Test after installation: Always test motion detection, video quality, and chime alerts to confirm everything works.
- Use proper tools: A voltage tester, screwdriver, and drill may be needed depending on your existing setup.
- Follow safety guidelines: Never work on live wires; if unsure, consult a licensed electrician.
How to Install Ring Video Doorbell Wired with Ring Chime
Installing a Ring Video Doorbell Wired with a Ring Chime is a smart way to boost your home security and convenience. Whether you’re replacing an old doorbell or installing one for the first time, this guide will walk you through the entire process—safely and efficiently. You’ll learn how to connect the doorbell to your existing wiring, pair it with the Ring Chime for indoor alerts, and set everything up using the Ring app.
This step-by-step guide is designed for homeowners with basic DIY skills. No advanced electrical knowledge is required, but safety is paramount. We’ll cover tools, preparation, wiring, app setup, and troubleshooting. By the end, you’ll have a fully functional smart doorbell system that sends live video to your phone and rings a chime inside your home.
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
Before diving into the installation, gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything ready will save time and reduce frustration.
Tools and Materials
- Ring Video Doorbell Wired
- Ring Chime (1st or 2nd Gen)
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Drill and drill bits (if mounting on brick, stucco, or concrete)
- Voltage tester (non-contact)
- Wire strippers (if wires need trimming)
- Level (to ensure the doorbell is straight)
- Smartphone or tablet with the Ring app installed
- Wi-Fi network with 2.4 GHz band (required for Ring devices)
Check Your Existing Doorbell
Most homes have a wired doorbell system, which is perfect for the Ring Video Doorbell Wired. However, you should verify a few things:
– Is there existing wiring? Look behind your current doorbell button. You should see two wires connected.
– Is there a transformer? The transformer converts household voltage (120V) to lower voltage (typically 8–24V) for the doorbell. It’s usually located in your basement, garage, or near your electrical panel.
– What’s the voltage? Use a multimeter or voltage tester to check. Ring recommends 8–24V AC. If your system is below 8V, the doorbell may not work properly.
If you don’t have an existing doorbell, you’ll need to run wires from a transformer to the doorbell location. This is more complex and may require professional help.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
Safety first! Working with electrical wiring can be dangerous if the power is on.
Locate Your Circuit Breaker
Go to your home’s main electrical panel (breaker box). Look for the circuit labeled “doorbell,” “chime,” or something similar. If there’s no label, you may need to test circuits by turning them off one at a time and checking if your doorbell stops working.
Turn Off the Correct Breaker
Switch the breaker to the “OFF” position. Use a non-contact voltage tester at the doorbell location to confirm the power is off. Touch the tester to the wires—if it doesn’t beep or light up, the power is safely off.
Pro Tip: Place a piece of tape over the breaker switch with a note like “Do not turn on – working on doorbell.” This prevents someone else from accidentally restoring power.
Step 2: 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 screws holding the old doorbell button to the wall. Gently pull the button away from the wall to expose the wires.
Disconnect the Wires
Loosen the terminal screws and carefully remove the two wires. Don’t let them fall back into the wall. You can tape them to the wall or hold them with a clip to keep them accessible.
Inspect the Wires
Check the condition of the wires. If they’re frayed, corroded, or too short, you may need to strip the ends or extend them. Use wire strippers to remove about 1/4 inch of insulation from each wire if needed.
Step 3: Install the Ring Doorbell Mounting Plate
The Ring Video Doorbell Wired comes with a mounting plate that secures the device to your wall.
Position the Mounting Plate
Hold the mounting plate against the wall where you want to install the doorbell. Use a level to make sure it’s straight. The ideal height is about 48 inches from the ground—eye level for most visitors.
Mark the Screw Holes
Use a pencil to mark the locations of the screw holes. If you’re mounting on wood or siding, you can screw directly into the surface. For brick, stucco, or concrete, you’ll need to drill pilot holes and use wall anchors.
Drill and Secure the Plate
Drill pilot holes if needed, then attach the mounting plate using the provided screws. Make sure it’s tight and secure—this plate supports the entire doorbell.
Step 4: Connect the Wires to the Ring Doorbell
Now it’s time to connect your home’s wiring to the Ring doorbell.
Thread the Wires Through the Plate
Feed the two doorbell wires through the center hole in the mounting plate.
Attach the Wires to the Doorbell
The Ring Video Doorbell Wired has 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 wire, and tighten securely.
Important: Do not connect both wires to the same terminal. This can cause a short circuit.
Secure the Doorbell to the Plate
Align the doorbell with the mounting plate and press it into place. You’ll hear a click when it’s locked. Use the provided security screw and screwdriver to secure the bottom of the doorbell. This prevents tampering.
Step 5: Set Up the Ring Chime
The Ring Chime is a plug-in device that plays audible alerts when someone rings your doorbell or triggers motion. It works independently of your home’s existing chime.
Plug in the Chime
Find a standard electrical outlet inside your home—preferably in a central location like a hallway or living room. Plug in the Ring Chime. The light on the front will blink white, indicating it’s in setup mode.
Download and Open the Ring App
If you haven’t already, download the Ring app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Create a Ring account or log in if you have one.
Add the Chime to the App
In the Ring app, tap the menu (three lines) and select “Set Up a Device.” Choose “Chime” and follow the on-screen instructions. The app will guide you through connecting the Chime to your Wi-Fi network.
Tip: Make sure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you want the Chime to use (2.4 GHz only).
Customize Chime Sounds
Once connected, you can choose from different chime sounds, adjust volume, and set quiet hours. You can also link multiple Chimes to play simultaneously in different rooms.
Step 6: Set Up the Ring Video Doorbell in the App
Now that the Chime is ready, it’s time to configure the doorbell itself.
Add the Doorbell to the App
In the Ring app, go to “Set Up a Device” and select “Doorbells.” Choose “Ring Video Doorbell Wired.” The app will prompt you to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell or enter the serial number manually.
Connect to Wi-Fi
Follow the app’s instructions to connect the doorbell to your Wi-Fi network. Again, use the 2.4 GHz band—5 GHz is not supported.
Test the Connection
The app will check the signal strength. If it’s weak, consider moving your router, using a Wi-Fi extender, or relocating the doorbell slightly.
Adjust Settings
Customize motion zones, sensitivity, recording preferences, and notification settings. You can also enable “Linked Devices” to make the Chime ring when the doorbell is pressed.
Step 7: Restore Power and Test the System
Once everything is set up, it’s time to turn the power back on and test your new system.
Turn On the Breaker
Return to your electrical panel and switch the doorbell breaker back to “ON.”
Wait for the Doorbell to Boot Up
The Ring doorbell will take a minute or two to power on and connect to Wi-Fi. The light on the front will blink blue, then turn solid when ready.
Test the Doorbell
Press the doorbell button. You should see a live video feed in the Ring app. The Chime should also play a sound inside your home.
Test Motion Detection
Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion alerts. Check that you receive notifications and that the Chime responds if motion alerts are enabled.
Check Video Quality
Review the live feed and recorded clips. Make sure the image is clear, especially at night with infrared night vision.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, you might run into problems. Here are solutions to common issues.
Doorbell Won’t Power On
– Confirm the breaker is on.
– Check wire connections—ensure they’re tight and not touching each other.
– Test voltage at the doorbell location with a multimeter. If below 8V, your transformer may be too weak.
Chime Doesn’t Ring
– Make sure the Chime is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi.
– Check that the doorbell and Chime are linked in the app under “Linked Devices.”
– Ensure the Chime isn’t in “Do Not Disturb” mode.
Poor Wi-Fi Signal
– Move the router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
– Avoid placing the doorbell near metal objects or thick walls.
– Reboot your router and the doorbell.
Blurry or Dark Video
– Clean the camera lens with a soft cloth.
– Ensure the doorbell is angled correctly—too high or low can affect image quality.
– Check for obstructions like spider webs or dirt.
False Motion Alerts
– Adjust motion zones in the app to exclude areas like busy streets or trees.
– Lower motion sensitivity if alerts are too frequent.
Safety Tips and Best Practices
Installing a smart doorbell is generally safe, but follow these guidelines to avoid accidents.
- Always turn off power before handling wires.
- Use a voltage tester to confirm power is off.
- Don’t work in wet conditions—water and electricity don’t mix.
- If unsure, hire a professional—especially if you need to install a transformer or run new wires.
- Keep the Ring app updated to ensure security and performance improvements.
Conclusion
Installing a Ring Video Doorbell Wired with a Ring Chime is a straightforward project that enhances your home’s security and convenience. By following this guide, you’ve safely connected your doorbell to existing wiring, set up the Chime for indoor alerts, and configured everything through the Ring app.
Remember to test all features after installation and adjust settings to suit your lifestyle. Whether you’re watching for packages, screening visitors, or just staying connected, your new smart doorbell system is now ready to serve you.
With regular maintenance and occasional checks, your Ring devices will provide reliable performance for years to come. Enjoy peace of mind, one ring at a time.