How to Mount Arlo Doorbell

This guide walks you through how to mount Arlo doorbell safely and correctly, whether you’re replacing an old doorbell or installing a new one. You’ll learn about tools, wiring, mounting options, and app setup to ensure your smart doorbell works perfectly from day one.

Key Takeaways

• Choose the right Arlo doorbell model: Arlo offers wired and wireless options—pick one that fits your home’s setup and power source.
• Turn off power before installation: Always shut off electricity at the breaker to avoid shocks when working with wires.
• Use the included mounting plate: The template ensures accurate drilling and secure attachment to your wall or doorframe.
• Connect wires properly: Match wire colors and tighten connections to ensure reliable power and video transmission.
• Adjust angle and test settings: Position the doorbell for optimal viewing and use the Arlo app to fine-tune motion zones and alerts.
• Secure with anti-theft screws: Prevent tampering by using the provided security screws and tools.
• Keep firmware updated: Regular updates improve performance, security, and compatibility with other smart home devices.

Introduction: Why Mounting Your Arlo Doorbell Correctly Matters

Installing a smart doorbell like the Arlo isn’t just about convenience—it’s about security, peace of mind, and modernizing your home. Whether you’re upgrading from a traditional doorbell or setting up your first smart device, knowing how to mount Arlo doorbell the right way ensures it works reliably, looks professional, and lasts for years.

This guide will take you through every step, from planning your installation to testing the final setup. You’ll learn how to choose the best location, handle wiring safely, use the right tools, and configure the Arlo app for optimal performance. Even if you’ve never installed a doorbell before, this guide is written in simple, everyday language so you can follow along with confidence.

By the end, you’ll have a fully functional Arlo doorbell that alerts you to visitors, records HD video, and integrates seamlessly with your smart home system. Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need Before You Begin

Before you grab your drill and head to the front door, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything ready saves time and prevents frustration mid-installation.

Tools Required

• Drill and drill bits: A standard cordless drill with a 3/16” or 1/4” masonry bit (for brick or concrete) or wood bit (for siding or wood).
• Screwdriver: A Phillips head screwdriver for tightening screws.
• Voltage tester: Essential for confirming the power is off before touching wires.
• Pencil: For marking drill holes.
• Level: To ensure your doorbell is straight.
• Wire strippers (optional): If your existing wires are frayed or too short.
• Ladder: If your doorbell is mounted high.

Included in the Arlo Doorbell Box

Your Arlo doorbell package should include:

• The Arlo video doorbell unit
• Mounting plate (also called the backplate)
• Screws and wall anchors
• Anti-theft security screw and special tool
• Wire connectors (if needed)
• Installation guide and quick start card

Optional but Helpful Items

• Electrical tape
• Wire nuts (if not included)
• Smartphone with the Arlo app installed
• Wi-Fi extender (if your front door has weak signal)

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Picking the perfect spot for your Arlo doorbell is crucial. It affects video quality, motion detection, and ease of use.

Ideal Height and Angle

Mount your doorbell at a height of 48 to 60 inches from the ground. This range captures most visitors’ faces clearly and reduces glare from the sun or porch lights.

Tilt the doorbell slightly downward (about 10–15 degrees) so it points at the walkway or driveway. Avoid pointing it directly at a bright window or streetlight, which can cause overexposure.

Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength

Your Arlo doorbell needs a strong Wi-Fi connection to stream video and send alerts. Use your phone to check the signal at the installation spot. If it’s weak, consider:

• Moving your router closer
• Using a Wi-Fi extender
• Choosing a mesh network system

Consider Obstructions

Avoid placing the doorbell behind:

• Thick glass or storm doors (can block the lens)
• Trees or shrubs (may trigger false motion alerts)
• Mailboxes or light fixtures (can interfere with the view)

Step 2: Turn Off the Power

Safety first! Working with electrical wires can be dangerous if the power is on.

Locate Your Circuit Breaker

Go to your home’s electrical panel and find the breaker that controls your doorbell. It’s often labeled “Doorbell,” “Front Door,” or “Chime.” If unsure, turn off the main breaker to be safe.

Test the Wires

After turning off the breaker, go to your existing doorbell and remove the cover. Use a voltage tester to touch the wires. If the tester lights up or beeps, the power is still on—double-check your breaker.

Label the Wires (Optional but Smart)

If you’re replacing an old doorbell, label the wires (e.g., “Front” and “Trans”) with tape so you know which goes where. This prevents confusion during reinstallation.

Step 3: Remove the Old Doorbell (If Applicable)

If you’re upgrading from a traditional doorbell, you’ll need to remove it first.

Unscrew and Disconnect

Use a screwdriver to remove the old doorbell from the wall. Gently pull it away to expose the wires. Loosen the terminal screws and disconnect the wires.

Tuck Wires Safely

Don’t let the wires fall back into the wall. Use electrical tape to secure them to the back of the old plate or hold them with your fingers while you work.

Patch Holes (Optional)

If the old doorbell was in a different spot, you may need to patch and paint the wall. But if you’re mounting the Arlo in the same location, this step isn’t necessary.

Step 4: Install the Mounting Plate

The mounting plate is the backbone of your installation. It holds the doorbell securely and connects the wires.

Use the Template

Arlo includes a paper template in the box. Hold it against the wall where you want to mount the doorbell. Use a level to make sure it’s straight, then mark the screw holes with a pencil.

Drill Pilot Holes

Drill holes at the marked spots. Use wall anchors if you’re drilling into drywall, brick, or concrete—this ensures a secure fit.

Attach the Plate

Line up the mounting plate with the holes and screw it into place. Don’t overtighten—just snug enough to hold firmly.

Step 5: Connect the Wires
Now it’s time to wire your Arlo doorbell. This step varies slightly depending on your model (wired vs. wireless), but the basics are the same.

Identify the Wires

Most doorbells have two wires:

• Front wire: Connects to the doorbell button
• Transformer wire: Brings power from the chime unit

These are usually low-voltage (16–24V), so they’re safe to handle—but only when the power is off.

Strip the Wire Ends (If Needed)

If the wire ends are frayed or too short, use wire strippers to expose about 1/4 inch of copper. This ensures a solid connection.

Connect to the Mounting Plate

On the back of the Arlo mounting plate, you’ll see two terminals. Loosen the screws, insert the wires, and tighten them down. It doesn’t matter which wire goes where—Arlo doorbells are polarity-independent.

Secure with Wire Nuts (Optional)

For extra safety, twist the wires together and cover them with a wire nut. Then tuck the connection into the wall cavity.

Step 6: Attach the Arlo Doorbell
With the plate and wires in place, it’s time to mount the actual doorbell.

Align and Snap

Hold the Arlo doorbell against the mounting plate. The hooks on the back should slide into the slots on the plate. Gently press until it clicks into place.

Secure with Anti-Theft Screw

Use the provided security screw and special tool to lock the doorbell to the plate. This prevents thieves from easily removing it.

Step 7: Restore Power and Test
Now that everything is connected, it’s time to bring your doorbell to life.

Turn the Power Back On

Go to your breaker panel and flip the doorbell breaker back on. Wait a few seconds for the system to power up.

Check for Lights

Your Arlo doorbell should light up with a solid or blinking LED. Refer to the user manual for what each light color means (e.g., blue for setup mode, green for connected).

Test the Chime

Press the doorbell button. Your indoor chime should ring. If it doesn’t, double-check the wiring and breaker.

Step 8: Set Up the Arlo App
The Arlo app is where you control your doorbell, view live video, and customize settings.

Download and Log In

Download the Arlo app from the App Store or Google Play. Open it and log in with your Arlo account. If you don’t have one, create it using your email.

Add Your Device

Tap “Add Device” and follow the on-screen instructions. The app will guide you through scanning the QR code on your doorbell or entering the serial number.

Connect to Wi-Fi

Select your home Wi-Fi network and enter the password. The doorbell will connect and sync with the app.

Complete Setup

Name your doorbell (e.g., “Front Door”), set up motion zones, and choose notification preferences. You can also enable two-way audio and cloud recording.

Step 9: Adjust Settings for Best Performance
Fine-tuning your doorbell ensures it works exactly how you want.

Set Motion Zones

In the app, go to “Device Settings” > “Motion Zones.” Draw boxes around areas you want to monitor (like the walkway) and ignore (like the street).

Adjust Sensitivity

High sensitivity catches more motion but may trigger false alerts. Lower it if your doorbell keeps alerting you to passing cars or wind-blown leaves.

Enable Smart Alerts

Arlo can distinguish between people, packages, and vehicles. Turn on “Person Detection” to reduce unnecessary notifications.

Set Recording Length

Choose how long each video clip lasts—typically 15 to 60 seconds. Longer clips capture more context but use more storage.

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—no power means a wiring issue.
• Ensure the wires are securely connected to the mounting plate.

Weak Wi-Fi Signal

• Move your router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
• Switch to the 2.4GHz band (Arlo doorbells don’t support 5GHz).
• Reduce interference from microwaves, cordless phones, or thick walls.

Blurry or Dark Video

• Clean the lens with a soft, dry cloth.
• Adjust the angle to avoid direct sunlight or glare.
• Enable night vision in the app settings.

False Motion Alerts

• Narrow the motion zones to exclude busy areas.
• Lower motion sensitivity.
• Trim back bushes or trees that sway in the wind.

Two-Way Audio Not Working

• Check your phone’s volume and mute settings.
• Ensure the doorbell is connected to Wi-Fi.
• Restart the app and try again.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Arlo Doorbell Working
A little upkeep goes a long way in keeping your doorbell reliable.

Clean the Lens Monthly

Dust, dirt, and fingerprints can blur the camera. Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the lens.

Check for Firmware Updates

Open the Arlo app and go to “Settings” > “My Devices.” If an update is available, install it to improve performance and security.

Inspect Wiring Annually

Over time, wires can loosen or corrode. Turn off the power and check connections once a year.

Replace Batteries (If Wireless)

If you have a battery-powered Arlo doorbell, replace the batteries every 6–12 months or when the app alerts you.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Smart Doorbell
Congratulations! You’ve successfully learned how to mount Arlo doorbell and set it up for optimal performance. From choosing the right spot and handling wires safely to configuring the app and troubleshooting issues, you now have a smart doorbell that enhances your home’s security and convenience.

Remember, a well-installed doorbell isn’t just about seeing who’s at the door—it’s about feeling confident that your home is protected, even when you’re away. With regular maintenance and smart settings, your Arlo doorbell will serve you well for years to come.

Now go enjoy your new smart home feature—and never miss a visitor again!