How to Charge Ring Doorbell

Ring doorbells have become one of the most widely used smart home devices in the UK, combining convenience, security, and modern design. Whether you’re answering a delivery or keeping an eye on visitors, a Ring doorbell allows you to do it all from your smartphone. However, one of the most common questions new users ask is how to charge a Ring doorbell.

Charging a Ring doorbell is straightforward, but it varies slightly depending on which model you own. Some are battery-powered and require regular charging through a USB cable, while others are hardwired into your existing doorbell circuit and charge automatically. This comprehensive guide will explain how to charge each type of Ring doorbell, how long charging takes, how to check battery levels, and how to ensure you never run out of power when you need it most.

Understanding the Power Options of Ring Doorbells

Before learning how to charge your Ring doorbell, it’s important to understand how the different models are powered. In the UK, Ring doorbells come in two main types: battery-powered and hardwired.

Battery-powered Ring doorbells, such as the Ring Video Doorbell 2, 3, 4, and Battery Doorbell Plus, are designed for easy installation without the need for electrical wiring. They run on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack that can be removed and charged separately using a USB cable.

Hardwired models, like the Ring Video Doorbell Pro and Wired Doorbell, connect directly to your home’s doorbell wiring. These devices draw power continuously, meaning they do not need to be charged manually. However, some models with built-in batteries use the wiring to keep the battery topped up between charges.

Knowing which type of doorbell you own will determine how you need to charge it and how often maintenance is required.

Checking Your Battery Level in the Ring App

Before removing or charging your doorbell, it’s always worth checking the current battery level using the Ring app. Open the app on your smartphone and select your doorbell from the device list. Tap on “Device Health” to see the current battery percentage.

If the level is low (typically below 20%), you’ll receive a notification prompting you to recharge. Keeping an eye on the battery level helps you plan ahead so that your doorbell never loses power unexpectedly.

If your Ring doorbell is hardwired, you’ll still see a battery level reading in the app, but this battery should remain close to 100% most of the time since it’s continuously charging through the wiring.

How to Charge a Removable Battery Ring Doorbell

If your Ring doorbell uses a removable battery, charging it is quick and simple. Start by unscrewing the security screw at the bottom of the doorbell using the special Ring screwdriver included in your kit. Once the screw is out, gently lift the doorbell faceplate off.

Next, locate the battery release tab on the bottom edge of the device. Press the tab to release the battery pack and slide it out. You’ll see a small orange button on the pack itself, which confirms it is securely locked when in place.

Connect the battery pack to a micro-USB or USB-C cable (depending on your model) and plug it into a standard wall charger or USB port. The small LED indicator on the battery will light up red while charging and change to green once fully charged.

Charging typically takes between 5 and 10 hours, depending on your power source and battery condition. Once the light turns solid green, remove the cable and reinsert the battery back into the doorbell. Push it until it clicks into place, replace the faceplate, and reinsert the security screw to secure it.

Your doorbell will automatically power up and reconnect to your Wi-Fi once the battery is reinstalled.

Charging a Ring Doorbell Without Removing It

Some newer models, such as the Ring Video Doorbell 4, allow you to charge the unit without removing the entire device from your wall. Instead of taking out the battery, you can connect a charging cable directly to the port located on the back or underside of the unit.

To do this, use the provided micro-USB or USB-C cable and plug it into the port. The LED ring light on the doorbell will begin flashing, indicating that it is charging. When the light turns solid, the battery is fully charged.

This method is convenient for users who have mounted their doorbell in a place that is easy to access, such as near a doorway or gate, as it avoids the need to remove the device entirely. However, you may wish to use a long charging cable so you can keep the doorbell operational while charging.

How to Charge Hardwired Ring Doorbells

If you own a wired or hardwired Ring doorbell model, such as the Ring Video Doorbell Pro or Ring Wired, you typically don’t need to worry about charging it. These devices are connected directly to your home’s doorbell wiring, which provides constant power.

However, some hybrid models with built-in batteries use the hardwire connection to maintain charge rather than power the device directly. In this case, the wiring acts as a trickle charger. If your home experiences power outages or wiring issues, the battery may discharge over time, requiring a manual charge via USB to restore full operation.

To maintain a consistent power supply, ensure your transformer is compatible with Ring’s voltage requirements, typically between 16 and 24 volts AC for UK installations. If the transformer output is too low, the doorbell may not charge properly even when hardwired.

Using a Solar Charger for Your Ring Doorbell

An increasingly popular option among UK homeowners is the Ring Solar Charger accessory. This small solar panel attaches directly to the backplate of your battery-powered Ring doorbell, providing a steady trickle of power during daylight hours.

The solar charger helps extend the time between manual recharges, which is particularly useful for doorbells installed in busy areas or locations with frequent motion detection. However, it is not a complete replacement for charging, especially in winter when sunlight is limited.

To install the solar charger, remove your existing doorbell, mount the solar panel backplate in its place, and reconnect the doorbell to it. The solar panel connects via a small cable and automatically begins supplying power when exposed to sunlight.

How Often You Should Charge Your Ring Doorbell

How frequently you need to charge your Ring doorbell depends on several factors, including usage, motion sensitivity, and temperature. On average, most users need to charge the battery every two to three months.

If your doorbell is located in a busy area where motion detection triggers frequently, the battery will drain faster. Likewise, cold weather can reduce battery efficiency, especially in winter when temperatures drop below freezing.

To maximise battery life, adjust your motion sensitivity in the Ring app. Reducing the detection range or disabling unnecessary zones helps prevent constant recording and saves power. Turning off Live View when not needed also conserves battery.

Battery Care and Longevity

Proper care can extend the lifespan of your Ring doorbell battery. Lithium-ion batteries, like the ones used in Ring devices, perform best when kept between 5°C and 25°C. Avoid leaving the doorbell in direct sunlight for long periods during summer, as excessive heat can damage the battery over time.

When charging, use only official Ring cables or high-quality USB chargers to prevent overcharging or overheating. The built-in battery management system protects against damage, but it’s still best practice to unplug the charger once the indicator light turns green.

If you notice your battery draining unusually fast or not holding a charge, it may be time to replace it. Ring sells replacement battery packs that can be swapped in seconds, ensuring your device remains operational at all times.

Can You Use the Doorbell While Charging?

Yes, you can use most Ring doorbells while charging. If you’re charging through the direct port without removing the battery, the doorbell remains fully functional and continues to send notifications and record footage.

If you’ve removed the battery to charge it separately, the doorbell will be temporarily offline until you reinstall it. During this period, motion detection, notifications, and recording functions will be unavailable.

To minimise downtime, some users purchase a spare battery pack. This allows you to swap in a fully charged battery while the other charges, keeping your doorbell active without interruption.

Charging Indicators and What They Mean

When charging your Ring doorbell or battery pack, the LED indicators show the current status. A red light means charging is in progress, while a solid green light means charging is complete. Some models have a circular LED ring that pulses slowly during charging and becomes solid when finished.

If your doorbell shows no lights at all when connected to a charger, check the cable and power source. Try a different USB port or wall adapter to rule out a faulty connection.

If the light flashes blue rapidly, it may indicate that the device is rebooting or reconnecting to Wi-Fi, which is normal after reinstalling a charged battery.

Common Charging Problems and Solutions

Sometimes, Ring doorbells may fail to charge correctly. This can usually be traced to one of a few common issues.

If your doorbell or battery isn’t charging, check the USB cable and charger first. Using low-power USB sources, such as laptop ports, can slow down charging significantly. Switching to a wall adapter rated at least 2 amps can speed up the process.

If the charging light does not come on, inspect the battery contacts for dust or corrosion. Cleaning them gently with a dry cloth or soft brush often restores a good connection.

For hardwired units, ensure the transformer voltage meets Ring’s specifications. If it’s too low, the doorbell may appear to charge but will eventually lose power. In such cases, an electrician may need to replace or upgrade the transformer to maintain consistent charging performance.

Safety Tips When Charging Your Ring Doorbell

Always charge your Ring battery indoors at room temperature. Avoid charging outdoors or in damp environments, as this can expose the unit to moisture and electrical hazards.

Do not use damaged cables or third-party chargers of uncertain quality. Always inspect your charger for frayed wires or loose connections before plugging in.

If you use an outdoor USB extension for charging directly on the wall, ensure it is weatherproof and certified for outdoor use. Unprotected cables can cause short circuits in rainy or humid conditions.

How Long It Takes to Fully Charge a Ring Doorbell

Charging time depends on your Ring model and the condition of the battery. Most Ring batteries take between 5 and 10 hours to fully charge using a standard USB wall charger. If you use a lower-output USB port or charge through a computer, it may take longer.

To ensure optimal charging speed, use a 2.1-amp charger or higher. Avoid fast chargers that exceed Ring’s recommended voltage, as these can cause the battery to heat up.

Once fully charged, your battery should last around two to three months under normal use. With light motion activity or a solar charger attached, some users report going four to five months between charges.

Conclusion

Charging your Ring doorbell is a simple but essential part of keeping your smart home secure and reliable. Whether your model uses a removable battery, a direct USB connection, or is hardwired into your home, understanding how and when to charge it ensures continuous protection.

Check your battery level regularly in the Ring app, plan your charging routine before the power gets too low, and consider investing in a spare battery or solar charger for added convenience.

With proper care and attention, your Ring doorbell will remain a dependable guardian at your front door, always ready to alert you to visitors, deliveries, or unexpected activity. By following these charging guidelines, you can keep it running smoothly for years to come.