One of the most popular smart doorbells on the market is the Ring Video Doorbell – a video home-security device. The Ring Video Doorbell utilizes your home Wi-Fi network to send alerts to your Ring app when its motion sensor detects movement up to 30 feet away or when someone presses the button. This activates the camera, which then provides live-stream footage of the area, allowing you to answer your front door from almost anywhere in the world using two-way audio communication. During the recent pandemic, this feature offered a way to effectively have no-contact interactions with delivery drivers and food delivery services. Below are some tips and resources to help you get started with the Ring Doorbell installation process. Do you need assistance in installing your newly purchased security system? You can always give us a call, we’d be happy to help!
Choosing the Right Model
There are a variety of Ring Video Doorbell models to choose from. They all provide similar basic functions, such as two-way communication, motion detection and live stream capability. Click here to see a helpful comparison chart of all available Ring Video Doorbell models.
Get Started with Wi-Fi Set Up
The Ring Doorbell installation process starts by choosing the best model to fit your needs. Once you select and order your model, it is suggested that you fully charge your Ring Doorbell once you have received it and set up the Wi-Fi connection before installing it. Once the Ring Doorbell is fully charged, download the Ring app to your preferred device, such as your mobile phone or tablet, and use the app to link your Ring Doorbell to Wi-Fi. The app will walk you through adding a new Ring Doorbell device. Complete this step in close proximity to the location where you intend on mounting the device in order to determine how strong the signal is. If the signal is weak, consider plugging in a Wi-Fi extender between your router and front door to improve the signal strength. Once you have connected the Ring Doorbell to your Wi-Fi network, you can configure the settings from the app, such as the sensitivity of the motion sensor or how often you get alerts.
Mounting and Installation
Kits come with everything you need to mount and install a Ring Doorbell, but you may need a few items from your toolbox, such as a drill and a flathead screwdriver. If you have an existing doorbell and would like to remove it so that you can hardwire your Ring Doorbell in its place, proper precautions must be taken since you are dealing with exposed wires and live electricity. It is suggested that you hire an electrician to hardwire your Ring Doorbell. Power to your doorbell must first be shut off at the circuit breaker. The faceplate of the existing doorbell will be removed, exposing the power wires. These wires will be detached from the doorbell by loosening the screws and attaching them to your Ring Doorbell by wrapping one around each screw located on your device. Some Ring Doorbell models require hardwiring, such as Ring Video Doorbell Elite. Refer to the comparison chart to determine which models require professional installation services. The Ring Doorbell installation process is easy, especially if you want a completely wireless doorbell. If that is the case, you can purchase a Ring Chime notification device so that you can hear alerts throughout your house when someone presses your Ring Doorbell or if motion is detected. Or, you can simply get notifications on your smartphone or other device where your Ring app is installed.
Video Recordings
The Ring Video Doorbell offers Protect Plans for a monthly fee that allow video recordings of live feeds to be saved in the Cloud for 60 days along with the ability to video share and capture photo snapshots. Without a Protect Plan you will still receive motion-activated alerts, two-way talk ability, theft protection and live feed on your Ring app, but you’ll miss out on the ability to record footage and play it back later. If you miss a visitor, there is no way to see who it was or if a package was stolen you won’t be able to access video images of the suspect. This comparison chart lists the features for each of the two available plans – Protect Basic and Protect Plus.
Ring Doorbell Installation with Federal Security
Security cameras and video monitoring are smart ways to protect your home and property. With over 25 years in the business of security installation and monitoring, Federal Security is a contractor you can trust. If you are on the hunt for a complete security system, contact Federal Security for a customized quote today.