How to Install the Ring Doorbell Plus

Installing the Ring Doorbell Plus is simple with the right tools and guidance. This guide walks you through every step—from mounting to app setup—so you can enjoy enhanced home security in under an hour.

Key Takeaways

Check compatibility first: Ensure your existing doorbell wiring and voltage meet Ring’s requirements to avoid installation issues.
Gather the right tools: You’ll need a screwdriver, drill (optional), level, and smartphone with the Ring app installed.
Turn off power safely: Always shut off the breaker before handling wires to prevent electrical shock.
Use the mounting bracket correctly: Proper alignment ensures a secure fit and optimal camera angle for motion detection.
Connect via the Ring app: The app guides you through Wi-Fi setup, device pairing, and customization of alerts and settings.
Test after installation: Verify live view, motion detection, and two-way audio to ensure everything works before finishing.
Troubleshoot common issues: Weak Wi-Fi, poor video quality, or failed setups can often be fixed with simple adjustments.

Upgrading your home security has never been easier—thanks to smart doorbells like the Ring Doorbell Plus. Whether you’re replacing an old doorbell or installing one for the first time, the Ring Doorbell Plus offers HD video, two-way audio, motion alerts, and seamless integration with your smartphone. Best of all, you don’t need to be a tech expert to set it up.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of installing the Ring Doorbell Plus—from checking your doorbell’s compatibility to finalizing the setup in the Ring app. By the end, you’ll have a fully functional smart doorbell that keeps you connected to your front door, no matter where you are.

We’ll cover tools you’ll need, safety precautions, wiring tips, app configuration, and troubleshooting common problems. Whether you’re a DIY beginner or a seasoned home improver, this guide ensures a smooth, stress-free installation.

Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

Visual guide about How to Install the Ring Doorbell Plus

Image source: smarthomefreak.com

Before you grab your tools and head to the door, it’s important to gather everything you’ll need. Having the right equipment on hand saves time and prevents frustration mid-installation.

Here’s a checklist of essential items:

Ring Doorbell Plus – Make sure it’s unboxed and all components are present.
Smartphone or tablet – You’ll use this to download and set up the Ring app.
Ring app – Download it for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Screwdriver (Phillips head) – For removing your old doorbell and securing the new mount.
Drill and drill bits (optional) – Useful if you need to create new mounting holes or run wires.
Level – Ensures your doorbell is straight for the best camera angle.
Wire strippers (optional) – Helpful if you need to trim or re-strip existing wires.
Electrical tape – For securing loose wires during installation.
Ladder (if needed) – For reaching high-mounted doorbells.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about your doorbell’s wiring, take a photo of the back of your current doorbell before removing it. This will help you remember how the wires are connected.

Step 1: Check Compatibility and Power Requirements

Not all doorbells are created equal—and neither are home electrical systems. Before installing the Ring Doorbell Plus, you need to confirm that your existing setup can support it.

The Ring Doorbell Plus is designed to work with existing doorbell wiring and requires a power source of 8–24V AC. Most older mechanical doorbells fall within this range, but newer digital chimes or homes with low-voltage systems may not.

How to Check Your Doorbell Voltage

To verify compatibility:

Turn off the power at the breaker box.
Remove your current doorbell from the wall.
Locate the transformer—usually found in the basement, garage, or near your electrical panel.
Check the label on the transformer for voltage (V) and amperage (VA). Look for a rating between 8–24V and at least 10VA.

If your transformer is labeled 16V 10VA or 24V 20VA, you’re good to go. If it’s lower than 8V or higher than 24V, you may need a compatible transformer or consider the battery-powered Ring Doorbell models.

Important: The Ring Doorbell Plus is not compatible with AC-powered doorbells that use more than 24V or DC power. Using it with incompatible wiring can damage the device or cause it to malfunction.

What If Your Doorbell Isn’t Compatible?

Don’t worry—there are solutions:

Upgrade your transformer: A licensed electrician can install a compatible transformer (16V 30VA is ideal).
Use a Ring Plug-In Adapter: This optional accessory lets you power the doorbell via an outlet, bypassing wiring issues.
Consider a battery-powered model: If wiring is too complex, the Ring Video Doorbell (battery version) might be a better fit.

Once you’ve confirmed compatibility, you’re ready to move on to the next step.

Step 2: Turn Off the Power

Safety first! Before touching any wires, you must turn off the power to your doorbell circuit.

How to Safely Shut Off Power

Go to your home’s main electrical panel (breaker box).
Locate the breaker labeled “doorbell,” “chime,” or something similar. If there’s no label, turn off the main breaker to be safe.
Use a non-contact voltage tester on the doorbell wires to confirm power is off. Touch the tester to each wire—if it doesn’t beep or light up, you’re safe to proceed.

Never skip this step. Even low-voltage doorbell wires can carry a charge and pose a shock risk.

Once the power is off, you can safely remove your old doorbell.

Step 3: Remove Your Old Doorbell

Now that the power is off, it’s time to take down your existing doorbell.

Removing the Old Unit

Unscrew the mounting screws holding your current doorbell to the wall.
Gently pull the doorbell away from the wall to expose the wires.
Take note of how the wires are connected—usually, one wire goes to “Front” and another to “Trans” or “Common.”
Loosen the terminal screws and disconnect the wires. Use electrical tape to cap each wire individually to prevent them from touching.

Pro Tip: If the wires are short or frayed, use wire strippers to trim the ends and expose fresh copper. This ensures a solid connection with your new doorbell.

Inspect the Mounting Area

While the doorbell is off, check the condition of the wall and mounting plate. Look for:

Cracks or damage that might affect stability.
Paint or debris that could interfere with the new mount.
Alignment—make sure the area is level and centered on the door.

If needed, clean the surface or patch small holes before installing the new bracket.

Step 4: Install the Mounting Bracket

The Ring Doorbell Plus comes with a versatile mounting bracket that allows for adjustable angles—perfect for getting the best view of your doorstep.

Choosing the Right Bracket Angle

The Ring Doorbell Plus includes two bracket options:

Standard bracket: For flat surfaces or minimal angle adjustment.
Wedge bracket: Adds a 5-, 10-, or 15-degree tilt to improve the camera’s field of view.

If your doorbell is mounted too high or too close to the door frame, use the wedge bracket to angle the camera downward.

Mounting the Bracket

Hold the bracket 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, stucco, or concrete).
Secure the bracket with the provided screws using a screwdriver or drill.

Pro Tip: If you’re mounting on brick or stone, use wall anchors for extra stability.

Connect the Wires

Now, connect your existing doorbell wires to the back of the Ring Doorbell Plus:

Loosen the two terminal screws on the back of the doorbell.
Insert one wire into each terminal—it doesn’t matter which wire goes where.
Tighten the screws to secure the wires.
Wrap the connections with electrical tape for added safety.

Important: Do not let the bare wire ends touch each other, as this can cause a short circuit.

Step 5: Attach the Ring Doorbell Plus

With the bracket in place and wires connected, it’s time to mount the doorbell.

Securing the Device

Align the Ring Doorbell Plus with the mounting bracket.
Slide it downward until it clicks into place.
Use the included security screw and screwdriver to lock it in. This prevents theft or tampering.

Pro Tip: Don’t overtighten the security screw—just snug enough to hold the device firmly.

Check the Camera Angle

Stand back and look at the doorbell from the street. The camera should have a clear view of your doorstep, walkway, and any approach paths. If the angle is off, you can adjust it by:

Removing the doorbell and reattaching it with a different bracket angle.
Using the Ring app’s “Motion Settings” to fine-tune detection zones.

Step 6: Restore Power and Test the Doorbell

Now that everything is installed, it’s time to turn the power back on and test the system.

Restoring Power

Go back to your breaker box and turn the power back on.
Wait 30–60 seconds for the doorbell to power up.
Listen for a chime inside your home—this confirms the doorbell is receiving power.

If you don’t hear a chime, double-check your wiring and ensure the transformer is working.

Initial Test

Press the doorbell button. You should hear the chime inside and see a light on the front of the Ring device. If the light flashes white, the doorbell is in setup mode and ready to connect to the app.

Step 7: Set Up the Ring App

The Ring app is your control center for the doorbell. It lets you view live video, receive alerts, talk to visitors, and customize settings.

Download and Open the App

Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
Create an account or log in if you already have one.
Tap “Set Up a Device” and select “Doorbells.”
Choose “Ring Video Doorbell Plus” from the list.

Connect to Wi-Fi

The app will guide you through connecting your doorbell to your home Wi-Fi network:

Make sure your phone is connected to your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network (the Ring Doorbell Plus does not support 5GHz).
Follow the on-screen prompts to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell or enter the serial number manually.
Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted.
Wait for the app to confirm a successful connection.

Pro Tip: For best performance, place your router within 30–50 feet of the doorbell and avoid thick walls or metal barriers.

Complete the Setup

Once connected, the app will walk you through:

Setting up motion zones.
Enabling notifications.
Adding shared users (like family members).
Choosing a chime tone (if you have a Ring Chime or compatible mechanical chime).

Take your time to explore the settings—customizing motion sensitivity and alert schedules can help reduce false alarms.

Step 8: Test All Features

Before considering the installation complete, test every feature to ensure everything works as expected.

Live View

Open the Ring app and tap “Live View.” You should see a clear, real-time video feed from your doorbell. Check for:

Good lighting and visibility.
Minimal glare or distortion.
Smooth video playback.

Two-Way Audio

Tap the microphone icon and speak. You should hear your voice through the doorbell’s speaker, and visitors should hear you clearly. Test this with someone outside or by speaking toward the device.

Motion Detection

Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion alerts. You should receive a notification on your phone within a few seconds. Adjust motion zones in the app if the alerts are too frequent or miss activity.

Doorbell Press

Press the doorbell button and verify that:

You receive a notification.
The live view opens automatically.
The indoor chime rings (if connected).

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 the breaker: Ensure power is restored to the doorbell circuit.
Test the transformer: Use a multimeter to confirm it’s outputting 8–24V AC.
Inspect wires: Make sure connections are tight and not touching.

Poor Wi-Fi Connection

Move closer to the router: Temporarily place your phone near the doorbell during setup.
Use a Wi-Fi extender: Improves signal strength in dead zones.
Switch to 2.4GHz: Ensure your network is not set to 5GHz-only.

Blurry or Dark Video

Clean the lens: Wipe it gently with a microfiber cloth.
Adjust lighting: Avoid pointing the camera directly at bright lights or the sun.
Enable Night Vision: Make sure it’s turned on in the app settings.

No Sound or Audio Issues

Check volume settings: Ensure the app and device volume are turned up.
Update the app: Make sure you’re using the latest version.
Reconnect the device: Remove and re-add the doorbell in the app.

Doorbell Keeps Disconnecting

Restart the device: Remove it from the bracket, wait 10 seconds, and reattach.
Reset the doorbell: Press and hold the setup button for 20 seconds.
Contact Ring Support: If issues persist, reach out for professional help.

Final Tips for Optimal Performance

Now that your Ring Doorbell Plus is up and running, here are a few tips to keep it performing at its best:

Update firmware regularly: The Ring app will notify you of updates—install them to improve security and features.
Clean the lens monthly: Dust and dirt can affect video quality.
Monitor battery (if using backup): The Doorbell Plus has a rechargeable battery backup—check its status in the app.
Review recordings: Use the Ring Protect plan to save and review video clips.
Share access wisely: Only add trusted users to avoid unauthorized access.

Conclusion

Installing the Ring Doorbell Plus is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your home’s security. With just a few tools, some basic electrical knowledge, and the guidance in this guide, you can have your smart doorbell up and running in under an hour.

From checking compatibility and safely turning off power to mounting the bracket, connecting wires, and setting up the app, each step is designed to be simple and stress-free. And if you run into any issues, the troubleshooting section has you covered.

Once installed, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing you can see, hear, and speak to anyone at your door—whether you’re home or halfway around the world. The Ring Doorbell Plus isn’t just a doorbell; it’s a smart investment in your safety and convenience.

So grab your tools, follow this guide, and take the first step toward a smarter, safer home today.