Ask an Electrician: Is a Ring Doorbell Easy to Install?

Ring Doorbell installation can be trickier than many homeowners think. (Image from Wikipedia)

Ring doorbells and other video-enabled doorbells have become quite popular over the last few years. And it’s pretty easy to see why: They allow you to see who’s at your door from anywhere, which provides both increased safety and convenience.

Combine this with the fact that some models are advertised as easy DIY installations, and it’s easy to see why so many homeowners are interested in having one of these new doorbells installed. But is installing a Ring Doorbell truly as simple as it sounds? We’ll dive into the issue below and explain everything you need to know.

Can You Install a Ring Doorbell Yourself?

You'll need a few tools to even attempt Ring Doorbell installation.

Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer to this question. The answer depends on which model you choose and how comfortable you are working with electrical systems. We’ll outline some of the most important things you’ll want to consider below, by looking at the two primary types of Ring Doorbells: battery-powered and hardwired.

Battery-Powered Ring Doorbells

Ring offers several battery-powered models, including the Video Doorbell, Video Doorbell 2, Video Doorbell 3, and Video Doorbell 4. These are all somewhat easy for homeowners to install, though many people will still appreciate the convenience that professional installation provides.

Here are some of the reasons these Ring Doorbells are sometimes easy enough for homeowners to install:

• No wiring required. Battery-powered models run on a rechargeable battery. You just mount the bracket, attach the doorbell, and connect it to your Wi-Fi via the Ring app.

• You only need basic tools. Typically, the only thing you’ll need to install a battery-powered Ring Doorbell is a screwdriver and, if you’re mounting in on a brick or concrete wall, a drill with a masonry bit.

• Step-by-step instructions are included. The Ring Doorbell app will walk you through setup, from scanning the QR code to connecting it to your home network.

While these steps are pretty simple, that assumes you have some basic DIY experience. Some homeowners may still find the installation process a bit daunting.

Wired Ring Doorbells

Wired models, like the Ring Video Doorbell Wired, Ring Video Doorbell Pro, and Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, are more complicated to install. These devices connect directly to your home’s existing doorbell wiring and draw continuous power. This means installation isn’t just about mounting the doorbell and using the app to complete the setup process; you’ll have to work with electrical circuits too.

Here are some of the reasons these Ring Doorbells are more challenging to install:

• You have to shut down the power. You’ll need to shut off power at the breaker before working with any wiring to avoid electrical shock.

• You must ensure transformer compatibility. Most existing doorbells rely on 8- or 16-volt systems. However, some Ring Doorbell models require a higher output transformer. This means that you’ll have to carry out additional installation steps (which may prove too advanced for the average homeowner) if your transformer doesn’t supply enough voltage for the doorbell.

• You may need to install diodes or jumper cables. Depending on your chime type (mechanical vs. digital) and the Ring Doorbell model you selected, you might need to install additional components to ensure compatibility.

• You’ll need to test your wires. Confirming you are connecting the correct wires and voltage is important to avoid damaging the doorbell or your overall doorbell system.

Given the extra complexity involved with installing these Ring Doorbell models, we recommend relying on professionals for the installation process. This is the only way to ensure your safety and the proper functionality of the doorbell.  

Common Issues Homeowners Face With DIY Rind Doorbell Installations

While some homeowners with basic electrical knowledge can install a wired Ring Doorbell themselves, we often get calls from people who run into problems like:

• The doorbell isn’t getting power and won’t turn on.

• The chime hums constantly or no longer works.

• Wi-Fi connectivity issues arise because of incorrect placement or installation.

• The transformer requires replacement to handle the new device.

• Existing wiring is outdated or incompatible.

These are situations in which an electrician’s expertise is valuable. This will help to overcome immediate issues, and it will also help ensure the system is safe and works as it should over the long term.   

When Should You Call an Electrician for Ring Doorbell Installation?

Ryan, happily connecting a chime to a new Ring Doorbell.

There are several situations in which homeowners are better served by contacting the Knightly Electrical Services team and arranging for professional doorbell installation. Some of the most common include:

• You’re installing a wired model and aren’t comfortable shutting off breakers or working with wiring.

• Your home doesn’t currently have a wired doorbell system, meaning that you’ll have to run new wiring and install a transformer.

• You have an older home, which may not be compatible with a modern device like a Ring Doorbell.

• You want a clean, professional installation that keeps your home’s aesthetics intact and ensures proper operation for years to come.  

• Your transformer is undersized and will therefore require replacement — this isn’t a job for the average homeowner. 

Ring Doorbell Installation: FAQ

Still have questions about Ring Doorbells? We’ve rounded up a few of the most common questions our customers ask below!

Can I install a wired Ring Doorbell without turning off the power?

Absolutely not. For safety’s sake, you must always turn off power at the breaker before working with electrical wiring. Even low-voltage doorbell wiring can carry enough current to cause electric shocks or damage equipment.

Do I need an electrician to install a battery-powered Ring Doorbell?

Maybe. Battery-powered models are designed for DIY installation, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. In fact, we hear from customers all the time who tried to install their own Ring Doorbell, only to realize they’re in over their head.

Will my existing chime work with a Ring Doorbell?

It depends on the model and the type of chime your home has. Some wired Ring Doorbells require a mechanical chime, while others need additional components for digital chimes. Our licensed electricians can help you determine whether your specific Ring model will work with a chime or not.

How long does professional installation take?

Installing a Ring Doorbell is fairly easy for licensed electricians, and it usually only takes 30 minutes to an hour.

Contact Knightly Electrical Services for Professional Ring Doorbell Installation

Why stress yourself out? Simply contact Knightly Electrical Services to have your new doorbell installed!

If you’re installing a battery-powered Ring Doorbell, you may be able to handle it yourself; but that doesn’t mean you have to; we’d be happy to install the new doorbell for you and prevent you from suffering the headaches that sometimes accompany DIY projects like this. On the other hand, you should not try to install a wired Ring Doorbell yourself. It’s simply not worth the risks.

In either case, we’d love to install your Ring Doorbell for you. Simply contact us now and schedule your site visit. We’ll be ready!