How to Install and Use a Smart Home Video Doorbell

1 Material
$249
1 Hour
Easy
Smart home technology has been a part of Steph's home pretty much since she became a homeowner in 2013. The first smart home tech she installed were Phillips Hue light bulbs. She previously had used them in her apartment and since they last for years, the bulbs are still going strong six years later. These bulbs are controlled via an app on her smart phone.

Another device that is controlled via an app is the new Ring Video Doorbell Pro we installed at her front door. With the Ring doorbell, she gets notifications when the camera detects motion. She can log into the app to watch a live view of the situation. Most often it's a package delivery or a cat!

The doorbell provides a level of security and control as you know who is at the front door and, if needed, you can talk to the person at the front door.

The Ring comes with almost everything you need for installation. We only needed to provide a drill and a small bit. It comes with a screwdriver as well as a drill bit for drilling anchor holes if needed.
Watch the video to see how we installed the Ring Doorbell and set up mobile app.
This is the view from the Ring Doorbell app. Do you think Steph is going to let me in?
BEFORE: This is a pretty standard outside doorbell. It does nothing but alert you to someone at the front door. Pretty low tech technology! The Ring Doorbell gives you a live picture of your front door as well as the ability to have a conversation without having to open the door.
First: we turned off the power to the doorbell from the circuit/fuse box.


Here we are installing the pro power kit into the existing internal doorbell.
See those little orange things? The wires from our internal doorbell snap effortlessly into them. Ring has done a good job simplifying the installation process.
Once the power pack is installed it's time to head outside to install the doorbell. To remove the old doorbell, we unscrewed the screws holding it to the wall and then removed the two wires from the back side. (The power needs to continue to be turned OFF during this part.)
Remove the cover from the Ring doorbell and hold it in place and mark the screw placement. Drill pilot holes at the markings.
Once placement is established, it's time to wire the new doorbell. The Ring uses the existing wiring which attaches to the two screws on the back of the Ring. It doesn't matter which wire goes to which screw. That's makes the wiring part really easy. You can turn the power back on now.
Once the doorbell is wired and screwed into place it's time to go through the in-app setup. Again, the video instructions walks you through the process.
Once setup is complete the faceplace is snapped into place (there are four colors to choose from) and the tiny security screw is put into place at the bottom of the device.
Steph's new smart home doorbell is up and running!
The Ring doorbell will detect motion and alert you via your phone long before someone actually presses the doorbell.
Here is a look at the great video quality from the camera. There are controls in the app so you can fine tune what the Ring picks up. For example, the camera was picking up the garden flag to the left of the doorbell. Every time it flapped in the breeze the alert would go off. Steph adjusted the settings so this doesn't happen anymore.


And a bonus- Steph has share the doorbell with me through the app so now I can see who is at her door too! As her, mom it gives me peace of mind knowing she has this extra layer of security at her house.
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 3 comments
  • Emingcas Emingcas on Jan 05, 2024

    I've been dabbling in it myself, and it's amazing how these gadgets make life easier and more secure.

  • Andermant Andermant on Jan 05, 2024

    What I can say is that I can totally relate to the longevity of Phillips Hue bulbs. They're like the Energizer bunnies of the smart lighting world; just keep going! And speaking of Ring Video Doorbell Pro, it's a fantastic addition to that extra layer of security and convenience. Installation seems pretty straightforward, too. But if you're looking to amp up your home security even more, consider checking out cerraduras inteligentes. These smart locks can provide an additional layer of protection for your property.

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