How to Install Arlo Doorbell - FlyingMachineArena

Installing a smart doorbell like the Arlo Video Doorbell is a rewarding DIY project that enhances home security and convenience. Gone are the days of peering through a peephole or missing deliveries. With an Arlo doorbell, you gain crystal-clear video, two-way audio, and intelligent motion detection, all accessible from your smartphone. This guide will walk you through the entire installation process, from unpacking your device to enjoying its advanced features. While specific models might have minor variations, the core steps remain consistent across the Arlo doorbell range.

Preparing for Installation

Before you even think about mounting your Arlo doorbell, thorough preparation is key to a smooth and successful installation. This involves gathering your tools, understanding your existing doorbell setup, and ensuring you have the necessary technical prerequisites.

Tools and Materials Checklist

Having the right tools at hand will prevent frustration and ensure a professional-looking installation. Most of the items you’ll need are common household tools.

Screwdriver Set: You’ll likely need both Phillips head and flathead screwdrivers. Ensure you have a variety of sizes to accommodate different screws.
Drill and Drill Bits: A power drill will make creating mounting holes significantly easier. You’ll need drill bits appropriate for the material of your wall (wood, brick, stucco, etc.).
Level: Crucial for ensuring your doorbell is mounted straight, which not only looks better but also ensures optimal viewing angles for the camera.
Pencil: For marking drilling locations.
Wire Strippers/Cutters: If you’re replacing an existing wired doorbell, you might need to strip wire ends.
Wire Nuts or Connectors: To secure and insulate wire connections.
Ladder or Step Stool: To safely reach your existing doorbell location if it’s high up.
Smartphone or Tablet: Required for the Arlo app setup and configuration.
Wi-Fi Network Access: You’ll need your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password.
Optional: Voltage Meter: If you’re unsure about the power supply from your existing transformer, a voltage meter can confirm it’s within the acceptable range (typically 8-24V AC for wired Arlo doorbells).

Understanding Your Existing Doorbell System

The process of installing an Arlo doorbell can differ depending on whether you are replacing an existing wired doorbell, installing it in a location without a prior doorbell, or opting for a wireless model.

Wired Doorbell Replacement

If you have an existing wired doorbell, the Arlo doorbell is designed to integrate with your current chime system. You’ll need to identify the transformer and the existing wiring.

Locate the Transformer: The doorbell transformer is usually found in your electrical panel, near your furnace, or in your garage. It converts your home’s high-voltage AC power to the low-voltage AC power required by your doorbell. Ensure it outputs between 8-24V AC. If your transformer is insufficient, you may need to replace it, which is a more advanced electrical task.
Identify Existing Chime: Most wired doorbells connect to an indoor chime unit. The Arlo doorbell typically works with mechanical chimes and some electronic ones. Consult your Arlo manual for specific chime compatibility.
Disconnect Power: Crucially, before touching any wires, turn off the power to your doorbell circuit at your breaker box. This is a non-negotiable safety step.

No Existing Doorbell or Wireless Installation

If you don’t have an existing wired doorbell, you have two primary options:

Hardwiring: You will need to run new low-voltage wiring from a compatible transformer (you may need to install one) to the doorbell location. This is a more involved process and might require professional assistance if you are not comfortable with electrical wiring.
Wireless Models: Arlo offers battery-powered video doorbells. These are the easiest to install as they don’t require any wiring. You simply mount them and connect them to your Wi-Fi via the Arlo app. Ensure the battery is fully charged before installation.

Downloading the Arlo App and Creating an Account

The Arlo app is your central hub for controlling and managing your doorbell.

Download: Search for “Arlo” in your device’s app store (Apple App Store or Google Play Store) and download the official Arlo app.
Create Account: Open the app and follow the prompts to create a new Arlo account. You’ll need a valid email address.
Log In: If you already have an Arlo account, simply log in.

Mounting the Arlo Doorbell

With your preparation complete, it’s time to physically install the doorbell. The mounting process ensures the doorbell is secure, powered, and positioned for optimal performance.

Choosing the Right Location

The placement of your Arlo doorbell is critical for both security and usability.

Height: The recommended height is typically around 4 feet (1.2 meters) from the ground. This height is ideal for capturing faces of visitors and packages on the ground.
Viewing Angle: Consider the angle of your porch and walkway. Some Arlo doorbells come with angled mounting plates that can help you adjust the field of view to cover the desired area. Avoid mounting directly facing bright sunlight, as this can wash out the image.
Proximity to Wi-Fi: Ensure the chosen location has a strong Wi-Fi signal. You can test this by holding your smartphone at the intended mounting spot and checking the Wi-Fi bars.
Weather Protection: While Arlo doorbells are weather-resistant, some protection from direct rain or harsh elements can extend their lifespan. Consider the overhang of your porch.

Installing the Mounting Bracket

The mounting bracket is what secures the Arlo doorbell to your home.

For Wired Installations

Remove Existing Doorbell: If you’re replacing an old doorbell, unscrew it from the wall. Gently pull the wires out from the wall.
Position the Arlo Bracket: Hold the Arlo mounting bracket against the wall where you want to install the doorbell. Use a level to ensure it’s straight.
Mark Drilling Holes: With a pencil, mark the locations of the screw holes on the wall through the bracket.
Drill Pilot Holes: Remove the bracket and use a drill with an appropriate bit to create pilot holes at your marked locations. If you’re mounting on brick or stucco, you’ll likely need to use the included wall anchors.
Feed Wires: Carefully feed the existing doorbell wires through the opening in the Arlo mounting bracket.
Attach the Bracket: Align the bracket with the pilot holes and secure it to the wall using the provided screws. Use anchors if necessary.

For Wireless (Battery-Powered) Installations

Position and Mark: Hold the mounting bracket in your desired location, ensuring it’s level, and mark the screw hole positions on the wall.
Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes and insert wall anchors if needed, similar to the wired installation.
Secure the Bracket: Screw the mounting bracket firmly to the wall.

Connecting the Wiring (Wired Models)

This step involves connecting your existing doorbell wires to the Arlo doorbell.

Prepare Wires: Ensure the ends of your existing doorbell wires are stripped clean and free of corrosion.
Connect to Terminals: The Arlo doorbell has two screw terminals on the back. Loosen the screws on these terminals.
Attach Wires: Wrap one wire around each screw terminal. The order of the wires typically doesn’t matter for most wired doorbells.
Tighten Screws: Firmly tighten the screws to secure the wires. Ensure no bare wire is exposed beyond the terminals.
Tuck Wires: Carefully push any excess wire back into the wall, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with mounting the doorbell.

Attaching the Arlo Doorbell to the Bracket

Once the bracket is securely mounted and wiring is connected (for wired models), you can attach the doorbell itself.

For Wired Models: Align the Arlo doorbell with the mounting bracket. It usually slides or snaps into place. Ensure it is firmly seated.
For Wireless Models: Simply align the doorbell with the bracket and press it firmly until it clicks or locks into place. The magnetic or screw-in mechanism will secure it.

Setting Up and Configuring Your Arlo Doorbell

The physical installation is only half the battle. Now, you need to connect your Arlo doorbell to your Wi-Fi network and configure its settings through the Arlo app.

Connecting to Wi-Fi and Initial Setup

This is where your Arlo doorbell becomes a smart device.

Power On:
- Wired Models: Restore power to your doorbell circuit at the breaker box. The doorbell should power on, and you’ll typically see an LED indicator light up.
- Wireless Models: Ensure the battery is charged, then press the power button (if applicable) or follow the app’s instructions for activation.
Add Device in Arlo App: Open the Arlo app. Tap “Add Device” or the “+” icon. Select “Doorbell” and choose the specific Arlo model you have.
Follow App Prompts: The app will guide you through the process. This usually involves:
- Scanning a QR Code: You might need to scan a QR code on the doorbell or its packaging.
- Connecting to a Temporary Wi-Fi Network: Your phone may temporarily connect to a Wi-Fi network broadcast by the doorbell to facilitate setup.
- Selecting Your Home Wi-Fi: Choose your home Wi-Fi network from the list and enter your password.
- Device Synchronization: The doorbell will connect to your network and synchronize with your Arlo account.
Firmware Updates: Allow the doorbell to perform any necessary firmware updates. This can take a few minutes.

Configuring Smart Features and Settings

Once connected, you can customize your Arlo doorbell’s behavior.

Motion Detection Zones

This feature allows you to define specific areas within the camera’s view where you want motion detection to be active. This is crucial for reducing false alerts from passing cars or swaying trees.

Draw Zones: In the Arlo app, navigate to the doorbell’s settings and find “Motion Detection Zones.” You can draw custom rectangles on the camera’s live feed to create your desired zones.
Adjust Sensitivity: You can also adjust the sensitivity of motion detection to fine-tune what triggers an alert.

Notification Settings

Tailor how and when you receive alerts.

Push Notifications: Enable push notifications to receive instant alerts on your smartphone when motion is detected or when someone rings the doorbell.
Email Alerts: You can also opt to receive email notifications.
Activity Zones: Some models allow you to set up specific “Activity Zones” that trigger different types of alerts or notifications.
Schedules: You can set schedules for when you want to receive notifications, for example, only during working hours or when you’re away from home.

Two-Way Audio and Video Quality

Arlo doorbells offer clear audio and video.

Two-Way Talk: Test the two-way audio by having someone ring the doorbell or trigger motion. Speak into your phone and listen through the doorbell’s speaker.
Video Quality: While you can’t usually change the resolution in real-time during an event, you can set preferences in the app. Higher resolutions provide better detail but consume more bandwidth.

Smart Integrations (Optional)

Arlo doorbells often integrate with other smart home platforms.

Voice Assistants: Connect your Arlo doorbell to Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control, such as asking “Show me the front door.”
Smart Hubs: Integrate with smart home hubs for more complex automation routines.

Maintenance and Best Practices

Ongoing maintenance and adherence to best practices will ensure your Arlo doorbell continues to function optimally and provides reliable security.

Battery Management (Wireless Models)

For battery-powered Arlo doorbells, managing battery life is essential.

Charging: When the battery level gets low, the Arlo app will notify you. Remove the battery pack and charge it using the provided charger. You can also opt for a continuous charging solution with an optional solar panel or plug-in adapter.
Battery Optimization: Adjust motion detection settings, recording lengths, and notification frequency to conserve battery power. Reducing the number of recorded events and the length of each recording can significantly extend battery life.
Cold Weather Performance: Extreme cold can temporarily reduce battery performance. Keep this in mind during winter months.

Cleaning and Care

Keeping your doorbell clean ensures optimal camera performance and longevity.

Lens Cleaning: Periodically, gently clean the camera lens with a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that could scratch the lens or damage its coating.
Exterior Cleaning: Wipe down the exterior of the doorbell with a damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, or cobwebs.

Wi-Fi Connectivity and Performance

A stable Wi-Fi connection is paramount for a smart doorbell.

Signal Strength: If you experience connectivity issues or lagging video, check your Wi-Fi signal strength at the doorbell’s location. Consider a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network if the signal is weak.
Router Placement: Ensure your router is centrally located and not obstructed by large metal objects or thick walls.
Bandwidth: While doorbells don’t consume a massive amount of bandwidth, multiple high-resolution cameras and other smart devices can add up. Ensure your internet plan can support your needs.

Software Updates

Arlo regularly releases software updates to improve performance, add new features, and patch security vulnerabilities.

Automatic Updates: Most Arlo devices are set to download and install updates automatically.
Manual Check: You can manually check for updates within the Arlo app to ensure your device is running the latest firmware.

By following these comprehensive steps, you can confidently install and configure your Arlo doorbell, transforming your home’s entry security into a modern, connected experience. Enjoy the peace of mind and convenience that comes with knowing who’s at your door, anytime, anywhere.