Did you know you can install a Ring Video Doorbell yourself without an electrician or any wiring? You don’t even need an existing doorbell. We recently added one to our front door and it was one of the simplest DIY projects we’ve done in a long time.
Note: This is not a sponsored post. We paid for our doorbell ($99).
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Why Add A Video Doorbell?
Video doorbells have become a popular home-security upgrade. A Ring Video Doorbell lets you see, hear, and speak to visitors at your door from anywhere using the Ring smartphone app. It sends motion-activated alerts for people and packages on your porch and records audio and video of events, which can deter potential intruders and provide useful evidence if something happens. In short, it’s a modern doorbell that adds convenience and peace of mind.
Ring offers both wired and wireless models. We chose a wireless option because we didn’t have an existing doorbell to replace. The model we installed took less than 10 minutes and required no wiring or electrical work.
Installing A Wireless Ring Doorbell
The overall installation is quick and straightforward. The manufacturer provides an app-guided setup and the physical installation only requires basic tools. Below we outline the main steps and share tips and photos from our install.
Tools Needed To Install A Ring Doorbell
Ring includes most items in the box—screws, a charging cable, and a small screwdriver—but you’ll want a few extras on hand:
- Smartphone
- Power drill for pilot holes (optional but recommended)
- Screwdriver or power driver
- Pencil
- Small level (optional)
- Measuring tape (optional)
Step 1: Charge The Battery
Before installing, fully charge the doorbell battery. This can take several hours—ours took about eight—so start early. The battery plugs into the back of the doorbell and a blue front light indicates charging status; the light turns fully blue when charging is complete.
Step 2: Set Up The Ring App
While the battery charges, download the Ring app on your smartphone and create an account if you don’t already have one. The app is used to view live video, receive motion alerts, and walk you through setup. During setup you’ll sync the app to your device by scanning the QR code found under the mounting plate or in the instruction manual, and you’ll connect the doorbell to your home Wi‑Fi—so have your Wi‑Fi password ready.
Once the battery is charged and the app setup is underway, the app will guide you through adding the device by selecting “Set Up a Device” from the menu. The app handles both the device registration and the Wi‑Fi connection.
Part of the app setup includes scanning the doorbell’s QR code and connecting to Wi‑Fi. This step ensures the app recognizes your exact device and links it to your account.
Step 3: Attach The Doorbell Mounting Plate
Next mount the doorbell’s detachable plate to the exterior of your home. The plate snaps off the back of the unit. Placement depends on your surface—wood trim, siding, brick, or stone all require slightly different approaches. If you can’t or don’t want to drill, there are adhesive and specialized mounts available for renters and vinyl siding.
Position the plate about 4 feet from the ground or at the height you prefer, check that it’s centered and level, and mark the four mounting holes with a pencil.
To avoid splitting wood or to install anchors in brick or stone, drill pilot holes first. For masonry you may need a masonry bit or hammer drill. After drilling pilot holes, use the supplied longer screws to secure the plate.
Step 4: Secure Your Doorbell To The Mount
Snap the doorbell onto the mounted plate gently—no force should be required. Then use the short security screws provided to fasten the doorbell to the plate. These special screws help deter theft, so keep the supplied screwdriver in a safe place. A spare screw is usually included in case one is lost.
Step 5: Configure Your Doorbell In The App
Finish setup in the Ring app by configuring preferences like motion zones, notification types, and alert schedules. These options can be adjusted anytime via the app’s settings. It may take some trial and error to fine-tune motion sensitivity and notification frequency to suit your needs and preserve battery life.
Other Ring Video Doorbell FAQs
Is it easy to install a Ring Doorbell?
Yes. If you can use a screwdriver and a smartphone, you can install a wireless Ring doorbell. Wired models require working with low-voltage wiring, which is straightforward for many homeowners but optional if you prefer to hire a professional.
Do you need an electrician to install a Ring Doorbell?
No. Both wired and wireless Ring models can be installed without an electrician. If you’re uncomfortable with electrical tasks, or if you need new wiring installed where none exists, hiring an electrician is a safe option. For homes without an existing doorbell, a wireless model avoids wiring entirely.
Does installing a Ring Doorbell involve wiring?
The battery-operated Ring models do not require wiring—only periodic charging. Wired models use low-voltage doorbell wiring and can be connected to an existing chime system.
How do I choose between a wired or wireless Ring Doorbell?
If you already have a wired doorbell, a wired video doorbell is convenient and usually requires less battery maintenance. Wireless models are ideal when no wired doorbell exists or for renters who can’t modify the building.
Does a Ring Doorbell require a subscription?
No subscription is required to receive live video and real-time alerts. A Ring Protect subscription unlocks cloud video recording and historical footage playback for a monthly or yearly fee.
Do I need to buy anything else?
The box provides what you need for a basic install, but you might consider optional accessories:
- Chime: a plug-in unit that reproduces doorbell sounds indoors for wireless models.
- Wedge or corner kits: to angle the camera for better views when your door is elevated or off to the side.
- Faceplate covers: alternate finishes to match your home’s hardware.
- Solar charger: mounts behind the doorbell to reduce or eliminate manual recharging if your location gets enough sunlight.
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