Question: How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell?
Upgrade your home security effortlessly with the Arlo Video Doorbell. In a world where safety is paramount, the Arlo Video Doorbell is a guardian at your entrance.
Arlo video doorbell is a smart device that lets you see, hear, and speak to visitors at your door from anywhere. It also has motion detection, night vision, and video recording features.
Installing the Arlo video doorbell is not difficult, but it does require some tools and skills. In this article, we will show you how to install an Arlo video doorbell in 12 easy steps, whether you have an existing doorbell or not.
Ready to redefine your security game? Let’s dive into the simplicity of Arlo Video Doorbell installation together
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 1: Choose the right Arlo video doorbell for your home
There are two types of Arlo video doorbells: wired and wire-free. The wired version connects to your doorbell wiring and requires a power adapter. The wire-free version runs on a rechargeable battery and does not need any wiring. Choose the one that suits your needs and preferences.
Here are some pros and cons of each type:
Wired Arlo video doorbell:
Pros:
- No need to worry about battery life
- Supports continuous video recording
- Works with most existing doorbell chimes
Cons:
- Requires wiring and power adapter
- It may not fit some door frames
- More expensive than the wire-free version
Wire-free Arlo video doorbell:
Pros:
- Easy to install and move
- No wiring or power adapter is needed
- Fits any doorframe
Cons:
- The battery needs to be recharged every few months
- Does not support continuous video recording
- It may not work with some existing doorbell chimes
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 2: Download the Arlo Secure app and create an account
The Arlo Secure app is the main interface for setting up and controlling your Arlo video doorbell. You can download it for free from the App Store or Google Play. Create an account and sign in to access the app’s features, or use the app to view live and recorded videos, receive notifications, and adjust settings.
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 3: Remove your existing doorbell (if you have one)
If you have an existing doorbell, you will need to remove it before installing your Arlo video doorbell.
How to remove existing doorbell:
- Turn off the power to your doorbell at the circuit breaker or fuse box
- Unscrew the doorbell button from the wall and disconnect the wires
- Cover the exposed wires with wire nuts or electrical tape
- Keep the doorbell button and wires in case you want to reinstall them later
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 4: Install the power adapter (if you have a wired Arlo video doorbell)
If you have a wired Arlo video doorbell, you need to install the power adapter that comes with it. The power adapter converts the low-voltage doorbell wiring to the high-voltage required by the Arlo video doorbell.
Steps to install power adapter:
- Locate your doorbell transformer, which is usually in the basement, attic, or garage
- Turn off the power to the transformer at the circuit breaker or fuse box
- Unscrew the transformer from the wall and disconnect the wires
- Connect the power adapter wires to the transformer wires using the wire connectors provided
- Screw the power adapter to the wall near the transformer
- Turn on the power to the transformer and check if the power adapter LED is green
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 5: Install the mounting plate (for both wired and wire-free Arlo video doorbells)
The mounting plate is the base that holds your Arlo video doorbell to the wall. Install it using the screws and anchors provided using the following steps:
- Hold the mounting plate against the wall where you want to install your Arlo video doorbell
- Use a level to make sure the mounting plate is straight
- Mark the screw holes on the wall with a pencil
- Drill pilot holes on the marked spots using a 3/16-inch drill bit
- Insert the anchors into the holes and tap them gently with a hammer
- Screw the mounting plate to the wall using the screws provided
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 6: Connect the wires (if you have a wired Arlo video doorbell)
If you have a wired Arlo video doorbell, connect the wires from the power adapter to the mounting plate.
Follow these steps:
- Strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from the ends of the wires
- Loosen the screws on the back of the mounting plate
- Wrap the wires around the screws and tighten them
- Make sure the wires are secure and not touching each other
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 7: Attach the Arlo video doorbell to the mounting plate (for both wired and wire-free Arlo video doorbells)
The Arlo video doorbell snaps onto the mounting plate with a click. Attach the Arlo video doorbell to the mounting plate by:
- Aligning the Arlo video doorbell with the mounting plate
- Push the Arlo video doorbell firmly onto the mounting plate until you hear a click
- Make sure the Arlo video doorbell is secure and level
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 8: Sync the Arlo video doorbell with the Arlo Secure app (for both wired and wire-free Arlo video doorbells)
The Arlo Secure app will guide you through syncing your Arlo video doorbell with your account and network. You can follow these steps:
- Open the Arlo Secure app and tap the “+” icon
- Select “Doorbell” and choose your Arlo video doorbell model
- Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the QR code on the back of your Arlo video doorbell
- Wait for the app to find and connect your Arlo video doorbell
- Name your Arlo video doorbell and choose a location
- Follow the on-screen instructions to adjust the settings and preferences of your Arlo video doorbell
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 9: Test the Arlo video doorbell (for both wired and wire-free Arlo video doorbells)
Test your Arlo video doorbell by pressing the button and checking if you receive a notification on your phone. Run tests for the video and audio quality, the motion detection, and the night vision. If you encounter any issues, troubleshoot them using the Arlo Secure app or the Arlo support website.
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 10: Install the chime kit (if you have a wired Arlo video doorbell)
If you have a wired Arlo video doorbell, install the chime kit. The chime kit allows your existing doorbell chime to work with your Arlo video doorbell.
Follow these steps to install the chime:
- Locate your doorbell chime, which is usually in the hallway, living room, or kitchen
- Turn off the power to your doorbell chime at the circuit breaker or fuse box
- Unscrew the cover of your doorbell chime and remove it
- Disconnect the wires from the terminals labeled “Front” and “Trans.”
- Connect the chime kit wires to the terminals labeled “Front” and “Trans” using the wire connectors provided
- Stick the chime kit to the inside of your doorbell chime using the adhesive tape provided
- Replace the cover of your doorbell chime and screw it back
- Turn on the power to your doorbell chime and check if it works with your Arlo video doorbell
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 11: Install the battery (if you have a wire-free Arlo video doorbell)
If you have a wire-free Arlo video doorbell, you will need to install the battery that comes with it. The rechargeable battery lasts up to six months on a single charge.
How to install the battery:
- Press the release button on the bottom of your Arlo video doorbell and slide it off the mounting plate
- Open the battery compartment on the back of your Arlo video doorbell and insert the battery
- Close the battery compartment and make sure it is secure
- Slide your Arlo video doorbell back onto the mounting plate until you hear a click
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell Step 12: Enjoy your Arlo video doorbell (for both wired and wire-free Arlo video doorbells)
You have successfully installed your Arlo video doorbell. You can now enjoy its features and benefits, such as:
- See who is at your door in HD video and HDR
- Hear and speak to visitors with two-way audio and noise cancellation
- Receive alerts when motion is detected or someone presses the button
- Record and store videos in the cloud or on a local storage device
- Customize the settings and preferences of your Arlo video doorbell using the Arlo Secure app
- Integrate your Arlo video doorbell with other smart home devices and platforms
How to Install Arlo Video Doorbell without existing chime:
The Arlo video doorbell requires a voltage between 16-24V AC to operate and is designed to replace an existing wired doorbell. However, to install your Arlo video doorbell without an existing doorbell or chime, you can use a plug-in AC transformer that provides 16-24V AC with at least 1A output. You can follow these instructions to install your Arlo video doorbell with a plug-in AC transformer.
- Keep the Arlo video doorbell onboarding process in the Arlo app open.
- Route the AC wires to the desired location for your Arlo video doorbell with the plug-in AC power adapter unplugged.
- If you need the AC power adapter plugged in, turn off the power at the breaker.
- Install your Arlo video doorbell with or without the mounting wedge.
- Connect the AC wires to the terminals on the back of the doorbell.
- Secure the doorbell to the mounting plate and insert the security release pin.
- Plug in the AC power adapter and turn on the power at the breaker.
- Follow the Arlo app to complete the setup process.
Can you Install the Arlo doorbell without a power kit?
The power kit is a device that allows you to send 16-24V AC to the doorbell constantly but only sends it to the chime when the button is pressed. This prevents the chime from ringing or buzzing when the doorbell is not pressed and protects the chime from damage.
If you have a traditional wired chime, install the power kit to ensure the proper functioning of your Arlo video doorbell. However, some users have reported that their doorbell and chime work fine without the power kit, depending on the type and wiring of their doorbell system.
Suppose you install the Arlo doorbell without the power kit, regularly monitor the battery level and chime performance, and contact Arlo support if you encounter any issues.
Can I use the Arlo doorbell without WiFi?
No, you cannot use the Arlo doorbell without WiFi. The Arlo video doorbell requires a WiFi connection to stream video, receive calls, send alerts, and communicate with the Arlo app and other smart devices.
If your WiFi connection is unstable, you may experience poor video quality and delays. To improve your WiFi connection, try the following tips.
- Place your router closer to your doorbell, or use a WiFi extender or mesh network.
- Reduce the number of devices connected to your WiFi network or use a dual-band router.
- Change your router’s WiFi channel or frequency to avoid interference from other networks or devices.
- Update your router firmware and Arlo app to the latest version.
- Restart your router and doorbell by unplugging and plugging them back in.
How to Troubleshoot Arlo video doorbell:
If your Arlo video doorbell is offline, troubleshoot with the following steps
- Check your Wi-Fi connection and ensure your router is working.
- Check the power source; the doorbell should get enough voltage, and the power kit should be installed correctly.
- Check the battery level and charge the doorbell if needed.
- Check the doorbell settings and disable the do not disturb mode.
- Restart the doorbell by pressing and holding the sync button for 10 seconds until the LED flashes amber.
- Remove and re-add the doorbell from the Arlo app.
- Contact Arlo support if the problem persists.
Can you use the Arlo video doorbell with Google?
You can use the Arlo video doorbell with Google Home and Google Assistant and stream video from your doorbell to a smart display, receive motion alerts, and give voice commands to control your doorbell.
Follow these steps to connect your Arlo video doorbell with Google Home.
- Open the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Tap the “+” icon on the Home screen to add devices.
- Tap “Set up device” and then “Works with Google.”
- Search for “Arlo” and tap on it.
- Log in to your Arlo account and allow Google to access your Arlo information.
- Choose the Arlo doorbell you want to connect to Google Home, assign it to a group, and give it a name.
- You can now view the live video from your doorbell in the Google Home app.
How to Connect Arlo doorbell to phone:
To receive calls from your Arlo doorbell, install and log in to the Arlo Secure App on your mobile phone.
When a visitor presses your Arlo doorbell button, your phone receives a call that displays as Arlo Doorbell or your Arlo doorbell name.
You can accept or decline the call the same as you do for other calls. To change the Arlo doorbell call settings, you can follow these steps.
- Launch the Arlo Secure App and tap Devices.
- Select your Arlo doorbell and tap the settings icon.
- Tap Call Settings and choose the options you want.
- You can enable or disable silent mode, do not disturb mode, call waiting, and call forwarding.
What is the Arlo doorbell battery life?
The battery life depends on several factors, such as the frequency of video recordings, the setup environment, the WiFi connection, and the power source. The average battery life for the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free is 6 months, and for the Arlo Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) is 3 months.
To extend the battery life of your Arlo video doorbell,
- Charge the doorbell to 100% before the first use and whenever the battery level is low.
- Place the doorbell in an area with good WiFi coverage and avoid direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
- Adjust the motion sensitivity and video quality settings to reduce the number of recordings and the data usage.
- Use a plug-in AC power adapter or a solar panel to provide constant power to the doorbell.
- Enable the battery optimization feature in the Arlo app to conserve battery power when the doorbell is not in use.
FAQs
- How to adjust the motion sensitivity and video quality of your Arlo video doorbell
To fine-tune your Arlo video doorbell performance, navigate to the Arlo app, select your device, and access the settings. Here, you can customize motion sensitivity, minimizing false alerts or ensuring comprehensive coverage. Tweak video quality settings based on your preference and bandwidth considerations. Striking the right balance ensures optimal surveillance tailored to your specific needs.
- How to use a solar panel to power your Arlo video doorbell
Arlo offers compatible solar panels designed for seamless connectivity. Simply mount the solar panel in a location with ample sunlight, connect it to your doorbell, and enjoy continuous, sustainable power. This not only reduces battery changes but also contributes to a more environmentally conscious security system
- How to integrate your Arlo video doorbell with Amazon Alexa
Linking the devices enables voice commands for tasks like displaying the doorbell feed on Alexa-enabled screens. Head to the Alexa app, select ‘Skills & Games,’ locate Arlo and follow the prompts to complete the setup. Now, effortlessly monitor your doorstep with voice commands, adding an extra layer of convenience to your home security setup.
- How to share access to your Arlo video doorbell with other users
In the Arlo app, open ‘Settings’ and select ‘Grant Access.’ Input the email addresses of intended users and define their access level, whether full control or limited viewing rights. This feature is invaluable for households or businesses, ensuring multiple users can stay connected to the video doorbell feed, enhancing overall security coordination.
- What is the price of Arlo video doorbell?
The price of the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free is $149.99 on the official Arlo website and $99.99 on Amazon. The price of the Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell is $129.99 on the Arlo website and $79.99 on Amazon. These two choices cater to diverse preferences, ensuring wireless and wired enthusiasts can elevate their home security without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Setting up your Arlo Video Doorbell is super easy with our 12-step guide. We’ve made it simple for you to make your home safer. From taking it out of the box to finishing the last step, you’ve got through it all smoothly. Now, your front door is guarded with high-tech protection. Feel good knowing that your home is safer. With the Arlo Video Doorbell, keeping your home secure is not hard—it’s something any homeowner can do easily.