If you like the idea of joining the growing number of Brits swapping to a hi-tech way to find out someone is at the door, you might be asking if video doorbells are easy to install. After all, DIYing can save time as well as money.
A smart doorbell that allows you to see and record people when they approach the front door can be a useful element of a home security system. And one of these can also give you peace of mind that family members have arrived home, and help you avoid annoying missed deliveries.
So, if you’ve decided a video doorbell is a valuable addition to your home, we’re explaining here how easy they are to install, when you might do it yourself, and when it can be better to call in an electrician.
Are video doorbells easy to install?
Video doorbells can be easy to install, so long as you have some DIY skills. However, it’s battery powered video doorbells that are easiest. When it comes to wired doorbells, installation can demand more knowhow. Find the details on the ease of installation of both below.
Installing a wireless video doorbell
A video doorbell that is wireless is the choice that’s simplest to fit.
“Battery powered video doorbells are the easiest to install because they don’t require any wiring or electrical work,” says Karl Woolley, head of product security for Yale UKI.
“You can simply mount the device, connect it to your wi-fi via the relevant app, and you’re ready to go. There’s no need to connect to existing doorbell wiring, so you don’t need to drill through any walls, which is particularly helpful in rental properties.”
Karl Woolley is the head of product security for Yale UKI, leading the product innovation, strategy and go-to-market execution. With a wealth of experience in product management and a deep understanding of the evolving home security landscape, Karl is dedicated to delivering compelling, market-driven solutions that meet evolving customer demands.
Installing a wired video doorbell
Fitting a wired video doorbell demands some additional skills and knowhow.
“It is possible to install a wired video doorbell yourself, especially if you’re a confident DIYer and choose a user-friendly model,” advises Alison Peckham, security expert at MyJobQuote. “If you have existing wiring in place and a modern consumer unit to isolate the circuit, it’s a straightforward job that you can complete with a basic drill and screwdriver.” If you take this option, be sure to check the doorbell manufacturer’s stipulation regarding the power supply.
Alison does offer a caution regarding DIY installation, however. “It’s often sensible to leave it to a qualified electrician, especially if there’s currently no wiring in place for a doorbell,” she says. “Even if you do have the wiring, it’s very easy to connect the wires to the wrong terminals or not tighten them sufficiently. Furthermore, your existing wiring may be old and faulty or not up to standard.
“Hiring an electrician will ensure your doorbell works properly and is safe to use,” she adds. “The last thing you want is to have your doorbell malfunction at night when you’re trying to sleep. It will also protect your warranty. This is particularly important if you’re spending a lot of money on a video doorbell package that includes other security features such as cameras and sensors.”
There is an alternative if you want a wired-in video doorbell but don’t want to hire an electrician. “Choose one that comes with a plug-in adapter to keep the installation simple,” says Alison.
And if you don’t want to choose between wireless and wired when you opt for a video doorbell? “The Yale Smart Video Doorbell from Amazon can be used as a wired device or battery powered (lasting four to six months per charge), so you have the option to start with battery power for simple installation and can change to wired further down the line if desired,” says Karl Woolley. Power it with the Yale AC Power Adapter from Amazon.
Alison Peckham is a home security consultant skilled in assessing client’s needs and designing and implementing home security plans. Alison also provides expert home security advice for MyJobQuote.
Shop for video doorbells
Ring Battery Video Doorbell
With an estimated installation time of around five minutes, this video doorbell gets plenty of plaudits for its ease of fitting from its buyers.
Google Nest Video Doorbell
Straightforward to fit, this video doorbell can be battery powered, or you or an electrician could connect it to existing doorbell wires with the connector.
This battery-powered doorbell is simple to install and, to do so, you’ll just need some standard DIY kit along with what’s in the box.
Optimal placement of a video doorbell
While a video doorbell can be easy to install, you will need to know where to position it if you choose to DIY.
“Placement is crucial to get the best field of view and motion detection performance,” says Karl Woolley. “Ideally, mount the video doorbell between 1.2 and 1.5 metres from the ground – to clearly capture the best angle for your driveway. You’ll also want to make sure it’s positioned so that it’s not directly facing bright sunlight, which can cause glare.
“I’d recommend testing the live feed through your app before finalising installation to ensure you’re happy with the placement,” he adds.
FAQs
Is an easy-to-install video doorbell vulnerable to tampering?
A video doorbell can be vulnerable to tampering. “Video doorbells are larger than conventional doorbells, so they do stand out,” says Alison Peckham. “And they’re often only attached to the wall with a couple of screws. This does make them an easy target for thieves.
“One of the simplest ways to prevent your video doorbell from being stolen is to mount it with security screws,” she advises. “These have special screwhead designs, making them impossible to undo with standard screwdrivers. Some models do already come with this type of screw.”
You should also be sure to mount the doorbell as securely as possible, she says. “Those with rendered walls may need to invest in suitable wall anchors, as standard wall plugs can struggle to grip this type of material,” Alison says. “It may also be worth buying anti-theft brackets to get a more secure mounting.
“Installing outside lights with motion sensors can be a good deterrent and will boost your home security,” she adds.
A video doorbell that’s simple to install can save you money as well as allow you to get the security benefits of your purchase as soon as possible. When you buy, you might also want to consider video doorbells without a subscription to reduce your spend in the long term.
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