How to Install Blink Video Doorbell

The Blink Video Doorbell offers a robust and accessible entry point into smart home security, focusing on delivering clear video feeds, two-way audio, and convenient motion detection right to your mobile device. While primarily a home security device, its underlying technology and installation process align with the principles of setting up and integrating new hardware within a connected ecosystem, mirroring the meticulous approach required for advanced camera systems. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to get your Blink Video Doorbell up and running, ensuring optimal performance and integration into your home’s network.

Table of Contents

Understanding Your Blink Video Doorbell Package

Before embarking on the installation process, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the components included in your Blink Video Doorbell package. A thorough understanding of each item ensures a smooth setup and helps troubleshoot any potential issues.

What’s Inside the Box

Typically, your Blink Video Doorbell box will contain:

Blink Video Doorbell Unit: The primary device, featuring the camera, microphone, speaker, and battery compartment.
Mounting Bracket: A sturdy bracket designed to attach the doorbell securely to your wall. This bracket often has channels for wire management if you opt for a wired installation.
Installation Hardware: This includes screws and wall anchors suitable for various wall materials (e.g., wood, masonry).
Two AA Lithium Batteries: Blink Video Doorbells are typically battery-powered by default, offering flexibility in placement.
Phillips Head Screw Holder (if applicable): Some models include a small holder that attaches to the doorbell for storing the security screw used to prevent theft.
Quick Start Guide & Safety Information: Essential documentation for initial setup and important safety guidelines.
Wire Extension and Connectors (if wired installation kit is purchased separately): For those opting for a wired connection, these accessories will be necessary.

Essential Tools for Installation

While the Blink Video Doorbell is designed for straightforward installation, having the right tools on hand will make the process more efficient and professional.

Phillips Head Screwdriver: For securing the mounting bracket and the doorbell itself.
Drill with Drill Bits: Required for pre-drilling holes for wall anchors, especially if you are mounting to brick or concrete. A masonry bit will be necessary for these materials.
Level: To ensure the doorbell is mounted straight, providing an optimal field of view.
Pencil: For marking drill hole locations.
Wire Strippers (for wired installation): If you are hardwiring the doorbell, you may need to strip existing doorbell wires.
Voltage Tester (for wired installation): Crucial for safely testing existing doorbell wiring to ensure it’s compatible and to identify the correct wires to connect.

Preparing for Installation: Planning and Power Options

Successful installation begins with careful planning. This phase involves deciding on the doorbell’s location, understanding its power requirements, and preparing the necessary infrastructure.

Choosing the Optimal Location

The placement of your Blink Video Doorbell is critical for maximizing its effectiveness in monitoring your entryway. Consider the following factors:

Field of View: Position the doorbell at a height of approximately 4 feet (1.2 meters) from the ground to capture faces effectively. Avoid placing it too high or too low, which can distort the view.
Wi-Fi Signal Strength: Ensure the chosen location has a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal. A weak signal can lead to connectivity issues, delayed notifications, and poor video quality. You can test your Wi-Fi strength in the desired spot using your smartphone.
Proximity to Power (for wired option): If you plan to hardwire the doorbell, ensure it’s within reach of your existing doorbell wiring.
Protection from Elements: While Blink doorbells are designed to withstand various weather conditions, avoid direct, prolonged exposure to extreme elements if possible, such as under eaves or a porch overhang, for added longevity.
Avoidance of Direct Sunlight: Intense direct sunlight can sometimes overwhelm the camera sensor, causing glare or washed-out images, especially during certain times of the day.

Powering Your Blink Video Doorbell: Battery vs. Wired

The Blink Video Doorbell offers two primary power options, each with its advantages:

Battery Power (Default Configuration)

Simplicity: This is the most straightforward method, requiring no electrical wiring. Simply insert the provided AA lithium batteries.
Flexibility: Allows for easy installation in almost any location where you have good Wi-Fi coverage.
Battery Life: While Blink batteries are known for their longevity (often lasting up to two years), they will eventually need replacement. The Blink app will notify you when battery levels are low.
Features: Some advanced features might consume battery power faster.

Wired Power (Optional)

Continuous Power: Eliminates the need to replace batteries, ensuring the doorbell is always powered.
Enhanced Features: Wired connections can sometimes enable more advanced features or faster response times, although this varies by model and firmware.
Installation Complexity: Requires connecting to existing doorbell wiring or installing new wiring, which may necessitate working with electrical systems.
Compatibility: Ensure your existing doorbell transformer provides the correct voltage (typically 8-24V AC). If your transformer is too low, you may need to upgrade it. The Blink app usually provides guidance on voltage requirements.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

With your location chosen and power option decided, you’re ready to begin the physical installation. This section details the process for both battery-powered and wired setups.

Battery-Powered Installation

This is the most common and easiest method of installation.

Insert Batteries: Open the battery compartment on the back of the Blink Video Doorbell and insert the two AA lithium batteries, observing the correct polarity.
Mounting Bracket Installation:
- Hold the mounting bracket against the wall at your chosen location. Use a level to ensure it’s straight.
- Mark the screw hole locations with a pencil.
- If mounting on drywall or plaster, drill pilot holes and insert the provided wall anchors. If mounting on wood, pilot holes are still recommended for easier screw insertion. For masonry, use the appropriate masonry drill bit and anchors.
- Screw the mounting bracket securely to the wall using the provided screws.
Attach the Doorbell:
- Align the Blink Video Doorbell with the top of the mounting bracket.
- Slide the doorbell downwards until it clicks into place.
Secure the Doorbell:
- Locate the small security screw hole at the bottom of the doorbell.
- Use the provided screwdriver to insert and tighten the security screw. This prevents unauthorized removal of the doorbell.

Wired Installation (Requires Existing Doorbell Wiring)

This process involves connecting the Blink Video Doorbell to your existing doorbell wiring. Important Safety Note: If you are not comfortable working with electrical wiring, it is highly recommended to consult a qualified electrician.

Turn Off Power: Crucially, before proceeding, turn off the power to your existing doorbell circuit at your home’s breaker box. Verify the power is off using a voltage tester at the existing doorbell button.
Remove Existing Doorbell: Unscrew and remove your old doorbell button from the wall. Gently pull the wires forward, but do not disconnect them yet.
Check Transformer Voltage: Using a voltage tester, confirm the voltage of your existing doorbell transformer. It should be between 8-24V AC for compatibility with the Blink Video Doorbell. If the voltage is too low, you will need to replace the transformer with one that meets Blink’s specifications.
Connect Wires:
- The Blink Video Doorbell typically has two terminals on the back. Connect one existing doorbell wire to each terminal. The order typically doesn’t matter for AC power.
- If your existing wires are too short, you may need to use the provided wire extensions and connectors to ensure a secure connection.
- Ensure the wire connections are clean and tight.
Mounting Bracket Installation:
- Thread the doorbell wires through the opening in the Blink mounting bracket.
- Align the bracket on the wall, ensuring the wires can reach the back of the doorbell.
- Mark and drill pilot holes, insert anchors if needed, and securely screw the bracket to the wall.
Attach the Doorbell:
- Align the Blink Video Doorbell with the top of the mounting bracket, carefully feeding the wires into the doorbell’s housing.
- Slide the doorbell downwards until it clicks into place.
- Connect the wires to the terminals on the back of the Blink Video Doorbell.
Secure the Doorbell:
- Insert and tighten the security screw at the bottom of the doorbell using the provided screwdriver.
Restore Power: Once the doorbell is securely mounted and wired, return to your breaker box and restore power to the doorbell circuit.

Setting Up Your Blink Video Doorbell in the App

Physical installation is only half the battle; the next step is to connect your doorbell to your home’s Wi-Fi network and configure its settings through the Blink Home Monitor app. This is where you unlock the smart capabilities of your device.

Downloading and Installing the Blink Home Monitor App

Download: Search for “Blink Home Monitor” on your smartphone’s app store (iOS App Store or Google Play Store) and download the official application.
Account Creation/Login: Open the app. If you’re a new user, you’ll need to create a Blink account. If you already have one, log in.

Adding Your Blink Video Doorbell to the App

Initiate Setup: Within the Blink app, tap the “+” icon to add a new device.
Scan QR Code: The app will likely prompt you to scan a QR code. This code is usually found on the doorbell itself, on the packaging, or within the Quick Start Guide.
Follow On-Screen Prompts: The app will guide you through the process of connecting the doorbell to your Wi-Fi network. You will need to select your Wi-Fi network from the list and enter your Wi-Fi password.
Device Naming: Assign a unique name to your doorbell (e.g., “Front Door,” “Porch Door”) for easy identification.
Firmware Updates: Once connected, the app will check for and install any available firmware updates for your doorbell. This is crucial for optimal performance and security.

Configuring Settings and Motion Detection

The Blink app offers a comprehensive suite of settings to customize your doorbell’s behavior.

Motion Detection Sensitivity: Adjust the sensitivity level to avoid false alerts from passing cars or pedestrians while ensuring you don’t miss important events.
Motion Zones: Define specific areas within the camera’s field of view where you want motion detection to be active. This helps filter out irrelevant motion.
Notification Settings: Customize how and when you receive motion alerts and doorbell press notifications. You can choose to receive them immediately or have them batched.
Video Quality: Select your preferred video quality, balancing clarity with data usage.
Two-Way Audio: Test and configure the microphone and speaker for clear communication.
Activity Zones: (If applicable) Some Blink models allow for defining specific “activity zones” within the camera’s view to trigger recording only when motion occurs in these designated areas.
Power Saving Settings: For battery-powered units, explore power-saving options that can extend battery life, though they might slightly impact recording duration or responsiveness.

By carefully following these steps and configuring the app settings to your preferences, you can ensure your Blink Video Doorbell is installed correctly and providing the security and convenience you expect.