A simple guide to Ring doorbells, cameras and lighting — plus what Brevard County homeowners should check before they buy
We’ve had a lot of customers ask us about Ring products over the years. We use Ring products ourselves, and we understand why they’ve become so popular for homeowners who want a little more visibility around their home or business.
We thought this could be some helpful tips and potential gift ideas this upcoming holiday season!
For us, they’ve been a great addition to our home and business and have given us some extra peace of mind.
But before you click “buy,” there are a few things worth checking first.
Because the product itself is only part of the equation. Where you want to install it, your Wi-Fi, existing wiring, power requirements and the electrical setup at your home can all make a difference.
Here are a few things we think are worth knowing before you buy
Check Your Wi-Fi Where the Device Will Actually Go
This one is easy to overlook.
You might have great Wi-Fi in your living room but a much weaker signal at the front door, over the garage or in the backyard.
Since Ring devices rely on your home network, it’s worth checking the signal at the actual location where you plan to install the device — not just where your router happens to be.
And remember, different Ring models can have different connectivity requirements, so it’s always a good idea to check the specifications for the exact model you’re considering.
Already Have a Doorbell?
Check the Wiring First.
If you already have a wired doorbell, that can make installation easier — but existing wiring doesn’t automatically mean it’s compatible with every Ring doorbell.
The power requirements can vary depending on the specific Ring model. Your doorbell transformer may need to provide the right voltage and VA rating for the device you’re installing.
That’s why we recommend checking the existing setup before ordering.
The transformer isn’t always right next to the doorbell, either. Depending on the home, it could be in a garage, attic, closet, basement or another location.
If you’re not sure what you have, that’s something an electrician can check before you buy.
What If You Don’t Have a Doorbell?
That’s not necessarily a problem.
Ring has battery-powered options, so you don’t have to have existing doorbell wiring to use a Ring doorbell.
If you want a hardwired model, however, you’ll need the appropriate electrical setup in place first.
And if you’re adding wiring where there isn’t any, it’s much better to figure that out before the new doorbell arrives at your door.
Battery or Hardwired?
Think About the Location First.
This is one of the biggest things to consider when choosing a Ring product.
A battery-powered camera can give you more flexibility because you’re not limited to a location with existing wiring.
A hardwired product can make more sense when you already have power where you want the device and don’t want to worry about regularly charging a battery.
Neither option is necessarily better for every home.
Think about where you want the device, how accessible it will be, whether you already have power there and how you want to use it.
That’s usually a better place to start than choosing the product first.
Don’t Forget the Transformer
If you’re installing a wired Ring doorbell, the doorbell transformer is an important part of the setup.
Existing doorbell wiring may look perfectly fine, but the transformer still needs to meet the requirements of the specific Ring model you’re installing.
Ring’s current guidance shows that voltage and VA requirements can vary between models, which is why we don’t recommend assuming that every existing doorbell setup will work with every Ring doorbell.
An undersized or incompatible transformer can cause power issues and prevent certain features from working properly.
Not every Ring model has the same requirements.
That’s why we recommend choosing the product first and then checking the exact electrical requirements for that model.
If you’re not sure what transformer you have, it’s worth checking directly with the ring before you order. You can visit Ring’s support page for additional information.
A Little Planning Can Save You a Headache
We’ve seen plenty of situations where a homeowner buys a product first and then realizes the location they had in mind needs something else before it can be installed.
Sometimes it’s wiring.
Sometimes it’s the transformer.
Sometimes it’s simply Wi-Fi coverage.
And sometimes the product isn’t quite the right fit for the location.
That’s why we like to look at the whole setup first.
Our goal isn’t to tell you which product you have to buy. It’s to help you understand what you’re working with so you can make a decision that makes sense for your home.
Is a Ring Product Right for Your Home?
If you’re looking for a way to see who’s at your door, keep an eye on another part of your property, or combine outdoor lighting with a camera, Ring has several options worth considering.
Many Ring products offer motion detection and alerts, while some models also include features such as built-in sirens or lighting that can help deter unwanted activity.
The important part is choosing the product based on what you actually need and making sure your home can support the installation.
And if you’re considering a bigger security setup, that’s worth looking at as a whole rather than buying individual products one at a time.
A Few Ring Products We Like
There are a lot of Ring products available, but these are a few that we think are worth looking at depending on what you’re trying to accomplish.
Ring Floodlight Cam
If you want both lighting and a camera in one location, the Floodlight Cam is worth looking at.
Customers like this option for areas such as driveways, docks, side yards and backyards because you get motion-activated lighting and a camera covering the same area.
The lighting can also be useful on its own. Sometimes simply having a well-lit area around your home is exactly what you’re looking for.
One important thing to know before buying one: the Floodlight Cam is a hardwired product. It needs the proper electrical connection and junction box at the location where you want to install it.
If you already have an outdoor light or floodlight in that spot, you may already have what you need. If you don’t, new wiring and an electrical box may need to be installed.
👉 Shop Ring Floodlight Camera
Ring Doorbell
This is the obvious place to start if you’re mainly looking for a way to see who’s at your door and keep an eye on what’s happening around your entryway.
We have a wired Ring doorbell ourselves, and it’s the Ring product we get asked about most often.
If you’re looking at a wired model, just remember that the exact power requirements depend on the specific model and generation. Ring has changed some of its product names and specifications over time, so check the current specifications for the exact doorbell you’re buying before installing it.
👉 Shop Ring Doorbells
Ring Outdoor Camera
If you want to keep an eye on more than just the front door, an Outdoor Cam is another option to consider.
This can make sense for areas like a side yard, backyard, garage area or another part of the property where you want a camera but don’t necessarily need a floodlight built into the same unit.
One thing we like about this category is the flexibility. Depending on the specific Outdoor Cam you’re looking at, Ring offers different power options, including battery, plug-in and solar configurations.
That means you can think about the location first and then choose the setup that makes the most sense for that spot.
👉 Shop Ring Outdoor Camera
Ring Alarm Security System
If you’re looking for more than a doorbell or camera, Ring Alarm is another option worth considering for a more complete home security setup.
We don’t personally use the Ring Alarm system, but we like that you can start with the basics and add to it over time, including compatible Ring doorbells, cameras and other security devices through the Ring app.
The system is designed for straightforward DIY setup, and Ring also offers optional professional monitoring with an eligible subscription.
Just keep in mind that monitoring and other subscription features can add to the ongoing cost.
👉 Shop Ring Alarm Security System
Still Got Questions?
Whether you’re trying to figure out which type of Ring product makes sense for your home or you’re not sure whether your existing wiring can handle it, we’re happy to help.
No pressure — just honest guidance from a licensed Brevard County electrician.
Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, All About ElectriCal earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we genuinely use, have experience with, or believe may provide value to our customers.