To put a Ring doorbell outside, you'll need to physically mount it to your doorframe or wall, connect any necessary wiring, and then digitally connect it to your home's Wi-Fi network. The process involves preparation, drilling, mounting, and final setup.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you start, gather these common tools:
- Ring Doorbell Kit: Includes the doorbell unit, mounting bracket, security screws, and often a screwdriver.
- Drill: For making pilot holes.
- Drill Bits: Appropriate size for the included anchors and screws.
- Pencil: To mark drilling spots.
- Level: To ensure straight installation.
- Step Ladder: If mounting higher up.
- Utility Knife: For stripping wires (if hardwiring).
- Wire Nuts: For connecting wires (if hardwiring).
- Safety Glasses: Recommended for drilling.
Before You Begin: Planning and Preparation
A smooth installation starts with good planning.
Choosing the Right Location
- Height: Mount your Ring Doorbell approximately 48 inches (1.2 meters) from the ground for optimal motion detection and clear video of visitors' faces.
- Proximity to Door: Ensure it's close enough to your door to clearly see who is approaching.
- Existing Doorbell Wiring: If you plan to hardwire, ensure the new Ring Doorbell can cover the existing wiring hole.
- Wi-Fi Signal: Verify a strong Wi-Fi signal at the chosen location. You can test this with your phone or by temporarily holding the Ring Doorbell in place and checking the signal strength in the Ring app.
Charging Your Ring Doorbell (if battery-powered)
If you have a battery-powered Ring Doorbell (like the Ring Video Doorbell 2, 3, 3 Plus, 4, or Battery Doorbell Plus), fully charge the battery pack using the provided USB cable before installation. This ensures the device is ready to go once mounted.
Turning Off Power (if hardwiring)
For hardwired Ring doorbells (like the Ring Video Doorbell Wired or Pro), always turn off the power to your existing doorbell at your circuit breaker before touching any wires. This is crucial for your safety.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Follow these steps to securely install your Ring Doorbell outside:
1. Remove Your Existing Doorbell (if applicable)
If replacing an existing doorbell:
- Gently unscrew and remove your old doorbell button from the wall.
- Carefully disconnect the two wires connected to it. Make sure they don't fall back into the wall.
- Remember to turn off power at the circuit breaker first if hardwired!
2. Mark and Drill Mounting Holes
- Hold the Ring mounting bracket against the wall at your desired installation height and use a level to ensure it's straight.
- Mark the screw holes with a pencil through the bracket.
- Remove the bracket and use your drill to create pilot holes at the marked spots. If mounting on stucco, brick, or concrete, insert the included wall anchors into these holes.
3. Install the Mounting Bracket
- Align the mounting bracket over the drilled holes.
- Screw the bracket securely into the wall using the provided mounting screws.
4. Connect Wiring (if hardwiring)
If you're hardwiring your Ring Doorbell:
- Loosely thread the two doorbell wires from your wall through the center hole of the mounting bracket.
- Connect one doorbell wire to each of the screw terminals on the back of your Ring Doorbell. It doesn't matter which wire goes to which terminal.
- Tighten the terminal screws to secure the wires.
5. Mount Your Ring Doorbell
- Carefully align the Ring Doorbell unit with the mounting bracket.
- Push the doorbell firmly onto the bracket until it clicks into place. Don't be afraid to use a little force to ensure it's properly seated.
6. Secure the Doorbell
Once the doorbell is snapped onto the mounting bracket, locate the small security screws at the bottom of the doorbell unit. Tighten these security screws using the star-shaped screwdriver provided in your Ring kit. This prevents unauthorized removal of the doorbell.
7. Connect to Wi-Fi and Complete Setup
- Once physically installed, restore power at your circuit breaker (if hardwired).
- Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Follow the in-app instructions to add your new device. You'll simply connect the video doorbell to your Wi-Fi network, and it's ready to go. This typically involves scanning a QR code on the device and selecting your home Wi-Fi network.
Important Considerations
- Wi-Fi Strength: If your Wi-Fi signal is weak at the doorbell's location, consider a Ring Chime Pro to extend your network range.
- Angle Mount: If your doorbell is mounted flush against a wall and you need to adjust the viewing angle, Ring offers various wedge and corner kits to angle the doorbell more effectively.
- Existing Chime Kit: If you have an existing indoor chime and want it to sound when someone presses your Ring Doorbell, ensure your Ring Doorbell is compatible and properly wired to a compatible chime transformer.
