This guide walks you through how to mount Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen safely and correctly, whether you’re replacing an old doorbell or installing one for the first time. You’ll learn about tools, wiring, alignment, and app setup for a seamless experience.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the right location: Mount your Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen at chest height (48 inches) and within Wi-Fi range for optimal performance and clear video.
- Gather essential tools: You’ll need a drill, screwdriver, level, and possibly a voltage tester—especially if wiring to an existing doorbell.
- Use the mounting bracket: The included bracket ensures secure installation and allows for angle adjustments to improve your field of view.
- Follow wiring safety: Turn off power at the breaker before connecting wires. Use the included diode if your chime isn’t compatible with smart doorbells.
- Complete setup via the Ring app: After mounting, use the app to connect to Wi-Fi, test motion detection, and customize settings like motion zones and alerts.
- Test and troubleshoot: Ensure the doorbell powers on, streams video, and sends notifications. Re-check connections if issues arise.
- Consider a solar charger or spare battery: For battery-powered models, a Ring Solar Charger can reduce recharging frequency.
How to Mount Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Installing your Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen is easier than you might think—even if you’ve never mounted a doorbell before. Whether you’re upgrading from an old mechanical chime or setting up your first smart doorbell, this guide will walk you through every step, from planning your installation to final testing. By the end, you’ll have a securely mounted, fully functional Ring Doorbell that keeps your home safe and connected.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to choose the best location, prepare your tools, safely handle wiring (if applicable), mount the device using the included bracket, and complete setup through the Ring app. We’ll also cover common pitfalls, troubleshooting tips, and ways to optimize your doorbell’s performance. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
Visual guide about How to Mount Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen
Image source: en-uk.ring.com
Before you grab your drill, take a moment to gather all the tools and materials. Having everything ready will make the installation smoother and faster.
Tools Required
- Drill: A cordless drill with a 3/16-inch drill bit is ideal for creating pilot holes in wood, brick, or siding.
- Screwdriver: A Phillips-head screwdriver (manual or drill bit) for tightening screws.
- Level: Ensures your doorbell is straight—important for both appearance and camera angle.
- Pencil: For marking drill spots.
- Voltage tester (optional but recommended): If you’re connecting to existing wiring, this helps confirm the power is off.
- Ladder: Depending on your door height, you may need a stable ladder to reach the mounting spot.
Included in the Box
- Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen (battery or wired version)
- Mounting bracket (angled and flat options)
- Screws and wall anchors
- Security screw and key
- Wire nuts (for wired installations)
- Diode (for incompatible chimes)
- User manual and quick start guide
Optional Accessories
- Ring Solar Charger: Keeps your battery-powered doorbell charged using sunlight.
- Ring Chime or Chime Pro: Adds an indoor chime if your existing one isn’t compatible.
- Extra mounting brackets: Useful if you want to switch between locations (e.g., front and back doors).
- Cable clips or conduit: For tidying up exposed wires on brick or stucco.
Step 1: Choose the Best Location
Picking the right spot is crucial for both security and functionality. A poorly placed doorbell might miss visitors, have Wi-Fi issues, or be vulnerable to tampering.
Ideal Mounting Height
Mount your Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen at chest height, which is typically around 48 inches (4 feet) from the ground. This height captures most visitors’ faces clearly and reduces the risk of damage from packages or weather.
Wi-Fi Signal Strength
Your doorbell needs a strong Wi-Fi connection to stream video and send alerts. Use the Ring app’s “Device Health” feature to check signal strength before finalizing the location. Avoid placing the doorbell behind thick walls, metal doors, or large obstructions.
Field of View
The Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen has a 155-degree diagonal field of view. Aim for a spot that covers your walkway, driveway, or front porch without pointing directly into the sun (which can cause glare). If your door is recessed, consider using the angled mounting bracket to adjust the camera’s direction.
Avoid These Locations
- Direct sunlight all day (can overheat the device)
- Areas prone to heavy rain or snow accumulation
- Behind glass or screens (reduces video quality)
- Too close to your doorbell chime (may cause interference)
Step 2: Turn Off Power (For Wired Installations)
If you’re replacing an existing wired doorbell, safety comes first. Even low-voltage systems can pose a risk if mishandled.
Locate Your Circuit Breaker
Find the breaker that controls your doorbell circuit. It’s often labeled “Doorbell,” “Chime,” or “HVAC.” If unsure, turn off the main breaker to be safe.
Test the Wires
Use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm the power is off. Touch the tester to the doorbell wires at the wall. If it beeps or lights up, the 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 wires. Label them (e.g., “Front” and “Trans”) if they’re not already marked. Loosen the terminal screws and disconnect the wires.
Step 3: Prepare the Mounting Surface
A clean, level surface ensures a secure and professional-looking installation.
Clean the Area
Wipe down the wall or siding with a damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, or grease. This helps the mounting bracket adhere better and prevents slipping.
Check for Obstructions
Make sure there are no pipes, electrical lines, or structural supports behind the wall where you plan to drill. If you’re unsure, use a stud finder or consult a professional.
Mark the Drill Points
Hold the mounting bracket against the wall at your chosen height. Use a level to ensure it’s straight. Mark the screw holes with a pencil. If using the angled bracket, position it so the doorbell points toward your desired viewing area.
Step 4: Drill Pilot Holes and Install Anchors
Drilling pilot holes prevents cracking and makes screwing easier—especially on hard surfaces like brick or concrete.
Drill the Holes
Using a 3/16-inch drill bit, carefully drill at each marked spot. Go slowly to avoid damaging the wall. For brick or concrete, use a hammer drill setting if available.
Insert Wall Anchors
If you’re mounting into drywall, wood, or masonry, insert the included plastic wall anchors into the holes. Tap them gently with a hammer until flush with the wall. Anchors provide extra grip and prevent screws from loosening over time.
Step 5: Connect the Wires (Wired Installation Only)
If your Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen is wired, now’s the time to connect it to your existing doorbell wiring.
Strip the Wire Ends
Use wire strippers to remove about 1/4 inch of insulation from each wire end. This exposes fresh copper for a solid connection.
Attach Wires to the Bracket
Thread the wires through the back of the mounting bracket. Loosen the terminal screws on the bracket and wrap each wire around a screw (one per terminal). Tighten securely. The order doesn’t matter—Ring doorbells are polarity-agnostic.
Use the Diode for Incompatible Chimes
Some older mechanical chimes aren’t compatible with smart doorbells and may not ring properly. If your chime doesn’t work after installation, use the included diode. Connect it across the chime terminals (follow the diagram in the manual). This allows the chime to ring while protecting the Ring doorbell.
Step 6: Secure the Mounting Bracket
With the wires connected, it’s time to attach the bracket to the wall.
Align and Screw In
Hold the bracket against the wall, aligning it with the pilot holes. Insert the screws through the bracket and into the wall anchors. Tighten with a screwdriver or drill (use low torque to avoid stripping).
Double-Check Level
Use your level again to confirm the bracket is straight. Adjust if needed before fully tightening the screws.
Tuck in Wires
Gently push any excess wire back into the wall cavity to prevent pinching or damage.
Step 7: Attach the Ring Doorbell
Now for the fun part—mounting the actual doorbell.
Slide the Doorbell Onto the Bracket
Align the back of the Ring Doorbell with the bracket. Slide it downward until it clicks into place. You should hear a secure snap.
Secure with the Security Screw
Use the included security screw and key to lock the doorbell to the bracket. This prevents theft and tampering. Insert the screw into the bottom of the device and tighten with the key.
Test the Fit
Give the doorbell a gentle tug to ensure it’s firmly attached. It shouldn’t wobble or come loose.
Step 8: Power On and Set Up via the Ring App
With the hardware installed, it’s time to bring your doorbell to life using the Ring app.
Download the Ring App
If you haven’t already, download the free Ring app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). Create an account or log in.
Turn On the Doorbell
For battery models: Remove the battery tab and insert the battery. For wired models: Turn the power back on at the breaker.
Add the Device in the App
Open the app and tap the “+” icon to add a new device. Select “Doorbells” and choose “Ring Video Doorbell 2.” Follow the on-screen prompts.
Connect to Wi-Fi
The app will guide you through connecting your doorbell to your home Wi-Fi network. Make sure you’re within range of your router. For better signal, consider using a Ring Chime Pro, which acts as a Wi-Fi extender.
Complete Setup
Name your doorbell (e.g., “Front Door”), set up motion zones, enable alerts, and test the live view. You should see a clear video feed from your doorbell.
Step 9: Test and Optimize Performance
A successful installation isn’t complete until everything works as expected.
Test the Video Feed
Open the live view in the app and check for clarity, lighting, and field of view. Adjust the angle if needed by loosening the security screw and repositioning the doorbell.
Check Motion Detection
Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion alerts. Ensure notifications arrive promptly on your phone.
Test the Chime
Press the doorbell button. Your indoor chime should ring (if wired and compatible), and you should receive a notification.
Review Device Health
Go to “Device Health” in the app to check battery level, Wi-Fi signal, and firmware updates. Keep firmware updated for security and performance.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, you might run into a few hiccups. Here’s how to fix them.
Doorbell Won’t Power On
- Battery model: Ensure the battery is fully charged and properly inserted. Try a spare battery if available.
- Wired model: Check that power is restored at the breaker. Verify wire connections are tight and not reversed.
Poor Wi-Fi Connection
- Move your router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Switch to the 2.4 GHz band (Ring doorbells don’t support 5 GHz).
- Use a Ring Chime Pro to boost signal at the door.
Chime Doesn’t Ring
- Confirm your chime is compatible with smart doorbells.
- Install the included diode across the chime terminals.
- Use a Ring Chime as an alternative indoor alert.
Video Is Blurry or Dark
- Clean the camera lens with a soft, dry cloth.
- Adjust the angle to avoid direct sunlight or backlighting.
- Enable “Night Vision” in the app settings.
Motion Alerts Not Working
- Check motion zones in the app—ensure they cover the desired area.
- Adjust sensitivity settings (too low may miss motion).
- Ensure the doorbell is not obstructed by plants or decorations.
Tips for Long-Term Maintenance
Keep your Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen working smoothly with these simple habits.
Clean the Lens Monthly
Dust, dirt, and fingerprints can blur the video. Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the lens.
Check Battery Level Regularly
For battery models, recharge or replace the battery when the app alerts you. A fully charged battery lasts 6–12 months, depending on usage.
Update Firmware
The Ring app will notify you of updates. Install them promptly to fix bugs and improve security.
Review Recordings
Periodically check your event history to ensure motion detection is working and adjust zones if needed.
Consider a Solar Charger
If you live in a sunny area, the Ring Solar Charger can keep your battery doorbell powered year-round with minimal maintenance.
Conclusion
Mounting your Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen is a smart investment in home security—and with this guide, you’ve done it safely and correctly. From choosing the perfect spot to completing the app setup, every step ensures your doorbell performs at its best. Whether you’re wired or wireless, the process is straightforward when you follow the instructions and use the right tools.
Remember, a well-mounted doorbell isn’t just about looks—it’s about reliability, clarity, and peace of mind. Test your system, customize your settings, and enjoy the convenience of knowing who’s at your door—even when you’re not home.
With your Ring Doorbell 2nd Gen now securely in place, you’re ready to protect your home with confidence. Welcome to the future of doorbell technology!