Setting up your Arlo Video Doorbell involves a straightforward process of preparing your existing doorbell system, installing the crucial power kit, securely mounting the doorbell unit, and finally configuring it through the Arlo app for smart home integration.
Pre-Installation Checklist for Arlo Video Doorbell
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and ensure your home is ready for the installation.
- Tools: You'll typically need a drill, screwdriver (Phillips and/or flathead), pencil, and a level.
- Arlo App: Download the Arlo Security App from your smartphone's app store and create an account if you don't already have one.
- Power Disconnection: Locate your home's circuit breaker box and turn off the power to your existing doorbell chime and doorbell button. This is a critical safety step.
- Wi-Fi Check: Ensure you have a strong 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal at your doorbell's location.
Step-by-Step Arlo Video Doorbell Installation Guide
Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful and safe installation of your Arlo Video Doorbell.
1. Install the Power Kit in Your Chime Box
The Arlo Power Kit is essential for providing consistent power to your video doorbell and ensuring your indoor chime works correctly.
- Locate Your Chime Box: Your existing doorbell chime box is typically found in a hallway, kitchen, or living room.
- Open the Chime Box: Carefully remove the cover of your existing indoor chime box.
- Connect Power Kit Wires: As prompted by the Arlo app, connect the power kit wires to the terminals inside your chime box. These terminals are usually labeled "Front" and "Trans" (transformer).
- Tighten Screws: Make sure to tighten the screws firmly after connecting the power kit wires to ensure a secure connection. Loose wires can cause power issues.
- Verify Existing Chime Wires: Crucially, make sure the existing chime wires are still securely connected to their respective terminals. The Arlo power kit works in conjunction with your current chime wiring.
- Close Chime Box: Replace the cover of your chime box once the power kit is installed and all wires are secure.
2. Remove Old Doorbell and Mount Arlo Video Doorbell
Next, you'll replace your traditional doorbell button with the Arlo Video Doorbell.
- Remove Old Doorbell: Unscrew and detach your existing doorbell button from the wall. Gently pull the wires out.
- Install Mounting Plate: Use the Arlo mounting plate as a template to mark and drill new holes if necessary. Ensure the plate is level.
- Connect Doorbell Wires: Connect your existing doorbell wires to the terminals on the back of the Arlo Video Doorbell. Polarity usually doesn't matter for these wires.
- Secure Doorbell: Attach the Arlo Video Doorbell to the mounting plate using the provided screws.
3. Restore Power and Initial App Setup
With the hardware installed, it's time to bring your doorbell to life and connect it to your Arlo account.
- Restore Power: Go back to your circuit breaker box and turn the power back on to your doorbell system.
- Wait for Indicator Light: Your Arlo Video Doorbell will power on. Wait for the LED indicator light on the doorbell to start flashing white, indicating it's ready for setup.
- Add Device in Arlo App: Open the Arlo app, tap the "Add New Device" or "+" icon, and select "Arlo Video Doorbell."
- Follow On-Screen Prompts: The app will guide you through connecting the doorbell to your home's Wi-Fi network (ensure it's 2.4 GHz) and naming your device.
4. Configure Settings and Test Functionality
Once connected, personalize your doorbell's settings and verify everything works as expected.
- Customize Settings: In the Arlo app, adjust settings such as motion detection zones, notification preferences, and video quality.
- Test Doorbell: Press the doorbell button on the Arlo unit.
- Verify your indoor chime rings.
- Check that you receive a notification on your phone.
- Confirm you can view the live feed and speak through the two-way audio.
- Adjust Mounting Angle: If your doorbell came with a wedge, you might install it to optimize the viewing angle for your specific entryway.
Best Practices for Optimal Arlo Video Doorbell Performance
To ensure your Arlo Video Doorbell operates reliably:
- Strong Wi-Fi: A stable and strong Wi-Fi connection is paramount for consistent performance. Consider a Wi-Fi extender if the signal is weak at your doorbell's location.
- Clear View: Regularly clean the doorbell's lens to ensure clear video footage.
- Firmware Updates: Keep your Arlo app and doorbell firmware updated to benefit from the latest features and security enhancements.
- Understanding Your Chime: Familiarize yourself with how your existing chime works, especially if it's a digital chime, as some may require specific configurations within the Arlo app.
For more detailed troubleshooting or specific model instructions, always refer to the official Arlo Support website.
| Issue | Potential Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Power / Offline | Breaker off, loose wires, Wi-Fi issues | Check breaker, re-tighten wire connections (especially power kit), restart router, check Wi-Fi signal. |
| Chime Not Ringing | Power kit incorrect, wiring issue, chime type | Ensure power kit wires are connected, existing chime wires are secure, select correct chime type in Arlo app settings. |
| Poor Video Quality | Weak Wi-Fi, dirty lens, direct sunlight | Move router closer, clean lens, adjust mounting if glares are an issue. |
| Motion Not Detected | Incorrect motion zones, sensitivity too low | Adjust motion zones and sensitivity settings in the Arlo app. |
