How to Leave Ring Doorbell

Whether you’re moving, upgrading, or no longer need your Ring Doorbell, leaving Ring Doorbell the right way ensures your data stays secure and your device remains functional. This guide walks you through every step—from uninstalling hardware to transferring ownership or canceling your subscription.

Key Takeaways

• Back up your recordings: Save important videos before removing your device to avoid permanent loss.
• Transfer ownership properly: Use the Ring app to assign a new owner so the next user can activate the doorbell without issues.
• Cancel your Ring Protect plan: End your subscription in the app to stop monthly or annual charges.
• Safely uninstall the hardware: Follow physical removal steps carefully to avoid damaging your doorbell or door frame.
• Factory reset the device: This clears your personal data and prepares the doorbell for resale or reuse.
• Check local regulations: Some areas require notification when removing security devices, especially in rental properties.
• Keep your account active temporarily: Don’t delete your Ring account immediately—wait until the transfer or removal is complete.

How to Leave Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’re ready to part ways with your Ring Doorbell. Maybe you’re moving to a new home, upgrading to a newer model, or simply no longer need a smart doorbell. Whatever the reason, leaving Ring Doorbell doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. With the right steps, you can uninstall your device, protect your privacy, and ensure a smooth transition—whether you’re handing it off to a new owner or packing it away for good.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to leave Ring Doorbell the right way. We’ll cover digital steps like transferring ownership and canceling subscriptions, as well as physical steps like safely removing the hardware. You’ll also learn how to back up your data, factory reset your device, and avoid common pitfalls. By the end, you’ll feel confident that you’ve handled the process securely and responsibly.

Let’s get started.

Why You Might Want to Leave Ring Doorbell

Before diving into the steps, it’s helpful to understand the different reasons people choose to leave Ring Doorbell. Knowing your situation will help you pick the right path.

• Moving to a new home: If you’re relocating, you may want to take your Ring Doorbell with you—or leave it for the new owners.
• Selling or giving away the device: You might be upgrading to a newer model or passing your old doorbell to a friend or family member.
• No longer needing a doorbell camera: Maybe you’ve decided smart doorbells aren’t for you, or you’re switching to a different brand.
• Privacy concerns: Some users remove Ring devices due to concerns about data collection or cloud storage.
• Rental agreements: If you’re a tenant, your lease may require you to remove personal devices when you move out.

No matter your reason, the process of leaving Ring Doorbell involves both digital and physical steps. Let’s break them down.

Step 1: Back Up Your Important Recordings

Before you do anything else, back up any important video recordings. Once you remove your device or transfer ownership, you may lose access to your Ring account and cloud-stored videos.

How to Save Your Videos

Ring stores your motion-activated and doorbell press recordings in the cloud if you have a Ring Protect plan. Here’s how to save them:

1. Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top-left corner.
3. Select Devices, then choose your doorbell.
4. Tap Event History to see a list of recorded events.
5. Find the video you want to save and tap on it to play.
6. Tap the download icon (usually a downward arrow) to save the video to your device.

Pro Tip: If you have many recordings, consider using Ring’s Download All feature (available on some plans) to export multiple videos at once. You can also connect your Ring account to Amazon Alexa and use voice commands to review recent clips.

Alternative: Use a USB Drive (For Local Backup)

If you have a Ring Doorbell with local storage (like the Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 with a compatible USB drive), you can back up recordings directly to a USB device:

1. Insert a compatible USB drive into the doorbell’s USB port (usually located on the back or bottom).
2. Open the Ring app and go to Device Settings > Local Storage.
3. Tap Backup Now to copy recent recordings to the USB drive.
4. Remove the USB drive and store it safely.

Note: Not all Ring models support local storage. Check your device’s specifications in the app or on the Ring website.

Step 2: Cancel Your Ring Protect Subscription

If you’re no longer using your Ring Doorbell, you should cancel your Ring Protect plan to avoid unnecessary charges. Ring Protect is the subscription service that enables cloud video storage, advanced motion detection, and other premium features.

How to Cancel Ring Protect

Follow these steps to cancel your subscription:

1. Open the Ring app.
2. Tap the menu icon and select Protect Plan.
3. Choose the plan associated with your doorbell.
4. Tap Cancel Plan and follow the on-screen prompts.
5. Confirm the cancellation when prompted.

Important: Cancellation takes effect at the end of your current billing cycle. You’ll still have access to your plan until then. If you’re on a monthly plan, you’ll be charged for the current month. Annual plans will not be refunded for unused time unless you contact Ring support.

Contact Ring Support for Refunds or Early Cancellation

If you need to cancel immediately or request a partial refund, contact Ring Customer Support:

• Call: 1-800-634-0574 (U.S.)
• Chat: Available in the Ring app under Help > Contact Us
• Email: [email protected]

Be ready to provide your account email, device serial number, and reason for cancellation.

Step 3: Transfer Ownership (If Selling or Giving Away)

If you’re leaving Ring Doorbell but someone else will be using it—like a new homeowner or a family member—you’ll need to transfer ownership. This ensures the new user can set up the doorbell under their own account.

How to Transfer Ownership in the Ring App

1. Open the Ring app and go to the Devices tab.
2. Select your doorbell from the list.
3. Tap the gear icon (Settings) in the top-right corner.
4. Scroll down and tap Transfer Device.
5. Enter the new owner’s email address (must be a valid Ring account).
6. Tap Send Transfer Request.

The new owner will receive an email invitation. They must accept it and follow the setup instructions to activate the doorbell under their account.

Tip: Make sure the new owner has the Ring app installed and a verified account before sending the transfer.

What Happens After Transfer?

Once the transfer is complete:

• The doorbell is removed from your account.
• All your personal data (including videos and settings) is deleted from the device.
• The new owner can customize motion zones, alerts, and notifications.
• You lose access to the device and its recordings.

Note: You cannot transfer a device if it’s still linked to an active Ring Protect plan. Cancel the plan first, or ensure the new owner subscribes to their own plan.

Step 4: Factory Reset Your Ring Doorbell

Even if you’re not transferring ownership, it’s a good idea to factory reset your Ring Doorbell before uninstalling it. This clears all personal data and resets the device to its original state.

How to Factory Reset

The process varies slightly depending on your model. Here’s how to do it for the most common Ring Doorbells:

Ring Video Doorbell (1st–4th Gen), Ring Doorbell 2, 3, 3 Plus, 4

1. Remove the doorbell from the mounting bracket (see Step 5 for details).
2. Locate the orange setup button on the back or side of the device.
3. Press and hold the button for 20 seconds until the light ring flashes white.
4. Release the button. The device will reboot and reset.

Ring Video Doorbell Pro, Pro 2

1. Remove the doorbell from the mounting bracket.
2. Press and hold the orange button on the back for 20 seconds.
3. The light will flash white, then turn off. The reset is complete.

Ring Peephole Cam

1. Remove the device from the peephole.
2. Press and hold the setup button (inside the battery compartment) for 20 seconds.
3. The LED will flash white to confirm the reset.

Important: A factory reset erases all settings, Wi-Fi credentials, and linked accounts. The device will no longer respond to your app.

Step 5: Uninstall the Ring Doorbell Hardware

Now it’s time to physically remove your Ring Doorbell from your door or wall. Follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging your door, wall, or the device itself.

Tools You’ll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Small flathead screwdriver (optional, for prying)
• Electrical tape (if disconnecting wired models)
• Ladder (if your doorbell is mounted high)

Step-by-Step Removal

1. Turn Off Power (For Wired Models)

If your Ring Doorbell is hardwired (like the Ring Doorbell Pro or wired versions of the standard model), turn off the power at the circuit breaker before removing it. This prevents electrical shock.

1. Locate your home’s electrical panel.
2. Find the breaker labeled “Doorbell” or “Front Door.”
3. Switch it to the OFF position.
4. Test the doorbell to confirm power is off.

2. Remove the Faceplate

Most Ring Doorbells have a removable faceplate:

1. Insert a small flathead screwdriver into the slot at the bottom of the faceplate.
2. Gently pry it upward until the faceplate pops off.
3. Set the faceplate aside.

3. Unscrew the Mounting Bracket

1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the doorbell to the mounting bracket.
2. Carefully pull the doorbell away from the wall.

4. Disconnect Wires (Wired Models Only)

If your doorbell is wired:

1. Take a photo of the wiring setup for reference.
2. Loosen the terminal screws and disconnect the wires.
3. Wrap the exposed wire ends with electrical tape to prevent short circuits.
4. Push the wires back into the wall.

5. Remove the Mounting Bracket

1. Unscrew the mounting bracket from the wall or door frame.
2. Fill any screw holes with spackle or wood filler if desired.
3. Touch up with paint to match your door or wall.

Tips for Safe Removal

• Work slowly to avoid cracking the doorbell casing.
• If the device is stuck, gently wiggle it while pulling.
• For battery-powered models, remove the battery before storage.
• Store the doorbell and accessories in a safe, dry place.

Step 6: Remove Your Device from the Ring App

Even after uninstalling the hardware, your device may still appear in the Ring app. Here’s how to remove it completely.

How to Remove a Device from the App

1. Open the Ring app.
2. Go to Devices and select your doorbell.
3. Tap the gear icon (Settings).
4. Scroll down and tap Remove Device.
5. Confirm the removal when prompted.

Note: If you’ve already transferred ownership, the device will disappear from your account automatically.

Step 7: Delete Your Ring Account (Optional)

If you’re leaving Ring Doorbell for good and don’t plan to use any other Ring products, you can delete your Ring account. This permanently removes your profile, devices, and data from Ring’s servers.

How to Delete Your Ring Account

1. Open the Ring app.
2. Tap the menu icon and select Account.
3. Scroll down and tap Delete Account.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm.
5. You’ll receive a confirmation email once the deletion is processed.

Important: Account deletion is permanent. You cannot recover your data or reactivate the account later.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful planning, you might run into problems. Here are solutions to common issues when leaving Ring Doorbell.

Issue: Can’t Transfer Ownership

Possible Causes:

• The new owner doesn’t have a Ring account.
• The email address is incorrect.
• The device is still linked to an active subscription.

Solutions:

• Ask the new owner to create a Ring account first.
• Double-check the email address for typos.
• Cancel your Ring Protect plan before transferring.

Issue: Doorbell Won’t Factory Reset

Possible Causes:

• The button isn’t held long enough.
• The battery is low.
• The device is damaged.

Solutions:

• Hold the setup button for a full 20 seconds.
• Charge the battery or replace it.
• Contact Ring Support if the device is unresponsive.

Issue: Wires Are Stuck or Damaged

Possible Causes:

• Wires are frayed or corroded.
• The terminal screws are too tight.

Solutions:

• Use needle-nose pliers to gently loosen wires.
• Trim damaged wire ends and strip fresh insulation.
• If unsure, consult an electrician.

Final Tips for a Smooth Exit

Leaving Ring Doorbell doesn’t have to be a hassle. Keep these tips in mind:

• Plan ahead: Start the process a few days before you move or sell the device.
• Communicate with the new owner: Share setup tips and warranty information.
• Keep your receipt: Useful if you need to return the device or claim a warranty.
• Recycle responsibly: If you’re not keeping the doorbell, consider donating or recycling it.

Conclusion

Leaving Ring Doorbell is a straightforward process when you follow the right steps. Whether you’re moving, upgrading, or simply done with smart doorbells, taking the time to back up your data, cancel subscriptions, transfer ownership, and safely uninstall the hardware ensures a clean and secure exit.

By following this guide, you’ve protected your privacy, avoided unnecessary charges, and set up the next user (or yourself) for success. Remember: leaving Ring Doorbell isn’t just about removing a device—it’s about doing it the right way.

Now you’re ready to move on with confidence. Safe travels, and thanks for being part of the Ring community!