Why Is My Ring Doorbell Not Charging

When your Ring doorbell stops charging, it can be both frustrating and confusing. You may notice the battery percentage staying low in the app, or you might find the device going offline completely. The problem could be related to wiring, the battery, the transformer, temperature, or even software glitches. For many UK homeowners, a Ring doorbell that suddenly refuses to charge is not uncommon, especially after several months of use. Understanding the root cause helps you get it back to full operation safely and efficiently.

A Ring doorbell relies on a consistent power supply to function correctly. Whether you own a battery-powered or wired model, charging problems generally point to issues with how the device receives or retains power. Battery versions might suffer from poor contact points, faulty cables, or extreme cold, while wired versions may lose charge due to transformer faults or incorrect wiring. This guide explains each potential cause and offers realistic troubleshooting solutions suitable for UK conditions.

How a Ring Doorbell Charges

Ring doorbells come in two main types: battery-powered and wired. A battery-powered Ring doorbell uses a rechargeable lithium-ion pack that charges through a micro-USB cable or by trickle-charging when connected to a compatible doorbell transformer. Wired Ring doorbells, such as the Ring Pro range, receive a continuous low-voltage supply from your home’s electrical circuit.

In both types, the power flow must remain consistent for the device to stay operational. Battery models slowly drain as they record footage, detect motion, and send alerts. Once the battery drops too low, the device switches off to prevent deep discharge damage. Wired models depend on correct voltage, typically between 16 and 24 volts AC, supplied through a transformer. Any disruption to this voltage prevents charging and can cause the device to go offline.

If your Ring doorbell is not charging, identifying which type you have is the first step. Battery models show their charging status directly in the app, while wired models will indicate offline status or inconsistent voltage readings in the Device Health section of the Ring app.

Common Reasons a Ring Doorbell Stops Charging

The causes of a non-charging Ring doorbell can vary widely, but most fall into a few key categories. The issue may be related to power delivery, weather, hardware, or software.

For battery-powered doorbells, one of the most common reasons is poor contact between the battery and the device. Over time, dirt, corrosion, or loose fittings can prevent the charging terminals from making proper contact. Another frequent problem is damage to the USB cable or port, which can stop power from flowing into the battery during recharging.

In the case of wired models, incorrect transformer voltage or damaged wiring is often the culprit. UK homes with older doorbell systems sometimes use transformers that output too low a voltage for modern Ring devices, which can prevent them from charging even if they appear to be powered.

Cold weather also plays a significant role. Lithium-ion batteries perform poorly in low temperatures, and UK winters can easily cause the Ring doorbell’s internal protection system to halt charging until the temperature rises. This means that even if your doorbell is correctly wired or connected, it may not accept a charge until conditions improve.

Checking Power Supply and Voltage

If your Ring doorbell is hardwired and not charging, start by checking whether power is reaching the unit. Open the Ring app and navigate to Device Health. Here, you’ll see information about voltage and connection strength. A healthy power supply for wired doorbells should read between 16 and 24 volts AC. Anything below 16 volts may not provide enough power to maintain charging.

You can verify this with a multimeter by testing the output from your transformer and the voltage arriving at the doorbell terminals. If the reading is low or inconsistent, the transformer might need replacement. In the UK, replacing or installing a transformer should be done by a qualified electrician who can ensure the system complies with Part P of the Building Regulations.

For battery models, the power supply check involves inspecting the charger and USB cable. Use the official Ring charging cable and a reputable USB wall plug to avoid compatibility issues. Plug the battery into a working socket and check if the indicator light on the battery glows red or green. If no light appears, try another socket or cable.

Inspecting the Battery Contacts

Over time, the battery contacts inside the doorbell housing can accumulate dust, corrosion, or moisture, especially if your unit is exposed to the elements. This prevents the battery from connecting properly to the terminals, halting the charging process.

Remove the battery from the doorbell and inspect the metal contacts at both ends. Clean them gently with a dry cloth or cotton swab. Avoid using liquid cleaners as moisture can damage the internal components. When reinstalling the battery, press firmly until you hear a click, indicating a secure connection. Check the app after a few minutes to see if the battery percentage begins to rise.

If your battery appears physically damaged or bulging, replace it immediately. Using damaged lithium-ion batteries can be hazardous. Replacement batteries are readily available in the UK and can be swapped easily without professional assistance.

Cold Weather Effects on Charging

Temperature is one of the most overlooked causes of charging problems with Ring doorbells. Lithium-ion batteries have protective circuits that stop charging when temperatures drop too low, typically below 4°C. This feature prevents permanent damage to the battery cells but can cause confusion for homeowners during winter.

If your Ring doorbell shows as “not charging” during cold conditions, remove the battery and bring it indoors. Allow it to warm to room temperature before recharging. Once charged, reinstall it and check whether it resumes normal operation.

For wired models, cold weather can also affect performance, but less severely. However, extreme moisture or frost can impact voltage stability, particularly if your wiring is exposed or poorly insulated. In this case, installing a waterproof mounting bracket or protective cover helps reduce exposure to dampness and cold air.

Checking for Software or Firmware Issues

Occasionally, a charging issue is not hardware-related at all but rather a software glitch. Like most smart devices, Ring doorbells rely on firmware to manage battery levels, charging, and connectivity. Outdated firmware can misreport charging status or prevent the device from updating properly.

Open the Ring app, go to Device Health, and check for firmware updates. If an update is available, install it while the device is connected to a stable WiFi network. After updating, restart the doorbell by holding the setup button for ten seconds. Once it reboots, check whether the battery percentage updates correctly.

If the issue persists, perform a factory reset. Hold down the setup button for 20 seconds until the light flashes. After resetting, re-add the device to your Ring app and test charging again. A reset often resolves issues caused by corrupted firmware or settings errors.

Problems with Hardwired Installations

If your wired Ring doorbell is not charging, the fault might lie in how it was installed. Some UK homes use existing chime circuits that are incompatible with Ring’s voltage requirements. Others may have loose wire connections or faulty transformers that disrupt power flow.

To inspect, turn off the power at your consumer unit. Remove the doorbell from the wall and check that the two power wires are securely fastened to the rear terminals. Ensure that the transformer is rated between 16 and 24 volts AC and at least 30VA. If your transformer is located in the loft or near the consumer unit, check for damage or corrosion on the wiring.

If you are unsure about performing these checks, it is best to contact an NICEIC-registered electrician. They can test the voltage safely and confirm whether the transformer or wiring needs upgrading.

Chime Connection and Transformer Compatibility

Ring doorbells often rely on specific transformer ratings and chime compatibility. If you’ve connected your doorbell to a mechanical chime that draws too much power, it may reduce the charge going to the doorbell itself. Ring’s installation guidelines recommend using an appropriate Ring-branded transformer or bypassing incompatible chimes altogether.

UK homes with older wired chime systems may not deliver stable voltage. In such cases, installing a Ring Plug-In Adapter can provide consistent power without altering existing wiring. This solution converts a standard mains socket into a low-voltage power supply for your doorbell, ensuring it remains charged even if your home wiring is outdated.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent many charging issues before they occur. Check your doorbell every few months for signs of dirt, water ingress, or corrosion. Clean around the charging contacts and ensure that the rubber seals are intact to keep moisture out.

If your doorbell is located in an exposed area, consider using a weatherproof cover. This will help protect the charging contacts and wiring from rain, frost, and direct sunlight.

Also, keep your firmware up to date and check your WiFi connection periodically. A poor connection can cause delayed updates or incorrect reporting of battery levels.

When to Replace the Battery

Even with proper care, rechargeable batteries have a finite lifespan. After a couple of years, you may notice that your Ring doorbell battery drains faster or struggles to hold a full charge. This is a sign that the battery is nearing the end of its useful life.

Replacing the battery is straightforward. Purchase a compatible Ring battery pack, charge it fully, and swap it with the old one. Once installed, your doorbell should show normal charging behaviour again. Replacing old batteries not only restores performance but also ensures your device operates safely.

Safety Considerations

When dealing with electrical systems, safety is paramount. Always switch off power at the mains before handling wired connections. Avoid using unofficial chargers or third-party batteries, as they may not meet UK safety standards.

If your doorbell repeatedly fails to charge despite your efforts, it may indicate an internal fault. Continuing to use a faulty unit can pose a safety risk. In this case, contact Ring support for a professional assessment or replacement.

Signs You May Need Professional Help

While many charging problems can be fixed at home, some situations call for expert assistance. If your wired doorbell still shows low voltage after confirming wiring and transformer specifications, an electrician can measure the circuit more accurately. They can also inspect for hidden damage, such as frayed cables behind walls or corroded connections at junction points.

Similarly, if your battery doorbell still refuses to charge even with a new battery and charger, the device itself may be faulty. Ring’s customer support can test warranty eligibility and provide replacement options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Ring doorbell say it is hardwired but not charging?

This usually means the doorbell is receiving minimal voltage but not enough to charge. Check your transformer’s rating and connections.

Can cold weather stop my Ring doorbell from charging?

Yes. Low temperatures can temporarily stop the charging process until the device warms up. Bring the battery indoors to charge it safely.

Do I need to replace the transformer if my wired doorbell is not charging?

If the transformer provides less than 16 volts AC, it should be replaced with one that meets Ring’s requirements.

Can I overcharge a Ring battery?

No. The battery includes built-in protection to prevent overcharging, so you can leave it plugged in until fully charged.

What if my Ring doorbell still won’t charge after trying everything?

If all troubleshooting fails, contact Ring support. The doorbell may have a defective power circuit or require repair.

Conclusion

A Ring doorbell that refuses to charge can be a nuisance, but it is usually easy to diagnose once you understand the possible causes. From faulty wiring to weak WiFi and cold weather, each factor affects how the device charges and performs. Start by identifying whether you have a battery or wired model, then work methodically through power supply, connections, and environmental factors.

For battery models, ensure clean contacts, warm charging conditions, and a reliable cable. For wired models, verify transformer voltage and check all wiring connections. Keeping your device maintained, firmware updated, and installed according to UK standards will help prevent charging issues in the future.

With the right checks and a bit of maintenance, you can restore your Ring doorbell’s charging function and continue enjoying its security and convenience year-round.