The Ring Doorbell is praised for its straightforward installation, emphasizing the simplicity of attaching the mounting bracket, doorbell, and security screws. Despite its wide-angle lens designed for effective visitor capture, narrow or awkward door frames can present challenges.
In such situations, wedge or corner kits become crucial for successful installation. Even opting for the thinnest model, like the Ring Pro, may not fully resolve issues of poor or obscured video captures. Whether dealing with limited space or an unconventional setup, adapting the installation process to suit your doorway’s specific constraints is essential.
Why Ring Doorbells In A Narrow Space Is An Issue
Installing Ring doorbells in a narrow space presents unique challenges, primarily due to their design. These doorbells are designed to capture a full view of the outside, which is their key selling point. The wide angle lens, essential for capturing a complete image of the outside world, can face issues in narrow spaces.
It struggles to provide a diverse lens perspective in such settings, potentially limiting the doorbell’s ability to offer a comprehensive view. This limitation can impact the effectiveness of the doorbell, as its ability to offer a full view is one of its most significant advantages in home security.
However, this Approach Comes with Several Problems:
Problem 1. When Your Door Is Inset:
A common challenge arises when the door frame is set back into the wall, impacting the quality of captured video. In such cases, the Ring Doorbell’s camera may inadvertently capture more of the wall than visitors, resulting in blind spots.
This issue is particularly concerning for crime prevention, as it could allow intruders to approach undetected. The inset door configuration, especially without a porch, may lead to incomplete footage, potentially missing crucial facial identification.
This poses a challenge for homeowners with recessed or protruding entrances, potentially compromising their ability to monitor visitors effectively and deter crime.
Problem 2. When Your Door Frame is Thin/Narrow:
The Ring Doorbell 2 and its width of 2.5″ (6.35cm), which may be too large for an average door frame that is narrow. This becomes an issue when the frame’s width is less than the minimum width required for the doorbell.
The Ring Doorbell 1, being slightly less wide at 2.4″ (6.17cm), still faces similar challenges, especially with its internal battery that necessitates hardwiring, making the unit even bulkier and wider. For these scenarios, Solutions 3-5 are designed to fix the installation challenges in narrow spaces.
The Ring House phone 2 also faces this dilemma with its standard size being smaller, yet its built-in battery makes the device bigger and heavier, complicating the installation process in thin or narrow frames.
Solutions to Narrow/Inset/Corner Installs
For doors inset into the wall, solutions 1 and 2 are effective, adapting the Ring Doorbell to fit. When dealing with a narrow door frame, solutions 3 onwards offer useful alternatives, especially for doors placed back or with tiny frames. These solutions are tailored to ensure optimal functionality despite spatial limitations.
Solution 1. Use a Corner Kit:
For Ring Doorbell installations in narrow or corner spaces, a corner kit proves invaluable. This accessory allows for adjusting the doorbell’s direction, improving its field of view and video capture capabilities.
Particularly useful in scenarios where a wall obstructs part of the view or when the doorbell is installed in a confined area, the corner kit reduces blind spots caused by side walls.
With a tilt range typically between 30-50 degrees, the corner kit offers versatility in viewing angles, beneficial for houses situated at the end of a street or with adjacent walls.
By strategically positioning the doorbell, you enhance visibility and ensure comprehensive surveillance of your surroundings, thereby boosting overall property security.
Solution 2. Use A Wedge Kit:
When standard mounting heights aren’t feasible for Ring doorbells, a wedge kit offers a practical solution. These kits are particularly useful when the doorbell needs placement at a different height than the typical ground level, where the wide-angle lens might not capture faces and bodies optimally.
The wedge kits allow vertical tilting, adjusting the viewing angle to accommodate unique positions, whether high or low. This method is invaluable for installations where obstructions may impede recording. With a tilt range of 5-15 percent, the wedge kits ensure a clear view of approaching guests, roads, and neighboring homes.
The inclusion of three stackable wedges in the authentic kit provides flexibility, allowing effective visitor capture even with higher existing doorbell placements or where hardwiring isn’t feasible.
Solution 3. Buy The Ring Doorbell Pro 1/2, Or Wired:
For installations in narrow, inset, or corner spaces, choosing between Ring Doorbells models is crucial. The battery-powered models (1, 2, 3, and 4) are noticeably bulkier. In contrast, the hardwired Pro 1, Pro 2, and Wired versions offer a sleeker profile.
For example, the Ring Doorbell 2, a battery model, is wider and may not fit well in restricted spaces, whereas the Pro models, with their more compact dimensions, are better suited for such installations, providing efficiency without the added bulk.
| Product | Height | Width | Depth | Power Source |
| Ring Doorbell 1 | 5″ (12.65cm) | 2.4″ (6.17cm) | 0.9″ (2.21cm) | Battery |
| Ring Doorbell 2 | 5″ (12.83cm) | 2.5″ (6.35cm) | 1″ (2.74cm) | Battery |
| Ring Doorbell Pro | 4.5″ (11.43cm) | 1.8″ (4.67cm) | 0.8″ (2.03cm) | Wired |
When dealing with a narrow door frame, the width of your doorbell is a crucial factor. The Ring 2, requiring an extra ⅔” (1.68cm), may not fit snugly in such spaces. In contrast, the Ring Pro 1/2 or Wired models are less bulky, making them ideal for narrow installations.
A visit to an electrics store to feel the difference between the battery doorbells (1, 2, 3, 4) and the sleeker Pro models can be enlightening. If your frame is too narrow, it’s advisable to ditch battery-based options in favor of the Pro 1, Pro 2, or Wired models, especially if you can hardwire them, for a seamless fit and enhanced aesthetic appeal.
Solution 4. Mount on Your Main Wall (Not The Door Frame):
If space is limited within a narrow frame for a Ring Doorbell, consider mounting it on the main wall instead of the door frame. This approach is especially suitable for Ring Doorbell 1 and 2, which do not require hardwiring.
Whether installing a Pro model or using a corner kit, wall mounting offers flexibility in space and video capture. This method ensures proper visitor capture without being too distant or obstructed.
It’s a practical option for those facing challenges with hardwiring existing doorbells or needing to run cables through walls. Additionally, wall mounting can increase visibility for visitors who may not easily locate the doorbell’s position.
Solution 5. Mount on Your Door:
Consider mounting your Ring Doorbell directly on your door for narrow installations, especially suitable for battery-powered models (1, 2, 3, and 4). This method eliminates the need for hardwiring and avoids cable snagging when the door opens or closes.
With rechargeable batteries, there’s no risk of dangerous cable slack. This placement allows for strategically better video captures, ensuring visitors are centrally positioned in the footage. It’s a practical solution for spaces where mounting on the door frame or using a powerline adapter is not feasible.
Solution 6. Use a Peephole Cam Instead:
If drilling into the exterior of your home or implementing previous solutions isn’t feasible, the Ring Peephole Cam offers an innovative alternative. This solution involves replacing your door’s peephole with a smart camera, providing standard benefits like two-way communication and HD video.
Mounting the device inside your property eliminates the need for external alterations, making it ideal for renters or those unwilling to make permanent changes. Installation using velcro straps or double-sided sticky tape ensures minimal intrusion.
Additionally, its indoor placement makes it more difficult to steal, enhancing security. The Ring Peephole Cam is a versatile and practical solution for challenging installation scenarios where traditional Ring Doorbells may not be viable.
How to Install Ring Doorbell in Narrow Space?
To install a Ring Doorbell in a narrow space, follow these steps:
- Select the Appropriate Model and Assess Installation Space: Measure your door frame’s width and choose a slim Ring model, such as the Ring Doorbell Pro. Ensure it fits the available space.
- Utilize Angling Accessories: If the doorbell can’t face forward due to space constraints, use corner or wedge kits to adjust its angle for optimal video capture.
- Explore Alternative Mounting Options: For extremely narrow spaces, consider mounting the Ring Doorbell on an adjacent wall or use the Ring Peephole Cam, especially suitable for renters or those unable to drill holes.
- Secure Installation Without Drilling: If drilling is not an option, mount the Ring Doorbell using non-intrusive methods like velcro straps or double-sided tape, particularly for indoor setups like the Peephole Cam.
- Optimize the Camera’s Field of View: Position the camera to minimize blind spots and maximize coverage of the entrance area, adjusting the angle to capture a comprehensive view of visitors.
- Test and Maintain the Setup: After installation, test the doorbell’s functionality, including its motion detection and video quality. Regularly update the software and check the device to ensure it continues to operate effectively in its new position.
People Are Also Interested In:
What is the Minimum Distance for Ring Doorbell?
When considering the placement of a Ring doorbell, it’s essential to understand the range of its motion sensors. These sensors are designed to detect motion effectively, covering up to 180 degrees horizontally.
The optimal range for these sensors to function is between five to 30 feet outward from the fixture. This minimum distance is vital for ensuring that your Ring doorbell captures relevant movements and activities, providing you with the security and convenience it’s designed for.
Can you Install Ring Doorbell on Door Frame?
Yes, you can choose to install your Ring Doorbell on a door frame, and it’s quite a straightforward process. The ideal height for placement is about 48 inches from the ground.
When lining up the doorbell, whether on a wall or the door frame, it’s crucial to ensure that the device is completely level. Using the provided level tool can greatly assist in this, making sure that your Ring Doorbell is optimally positioned for both functionality and aesthetics.
What Happens if Ring Doorbell is Too Low?
Mounting your Ring Doorbell at the recommended height of 48 inches is crucial, as placing it too low can significantly impact its motion detection capabilities. If a Ring Doorbell is installed lower than advised, it might fail to detect important activities, especially if there are stairs leading to your front porch or if your door faces a busy street.
These factors can affect the angle at which the Doorbell captures motion, leading to less effective surveillance and potentially missing critical moments. Thus, ensuring the correct height is key to maximizing the efficiency of your Ring Doorbell.
Is it Safe to Install a Ring Doorbell on The Narrow Frame?
Yes, it is safe to install a Ring doorbell on a narrow frame, provided that proper installation practices are followed. To avoid damaging the door or the Ring device itself, it’s essential to use the included spacers.
These spacers help ensure that the installation doesn’t obstruct the power source, such as the battery, crucial for the doorbell’s functionality. Following these best practice points ensures that installing your Ring doorbell on a narrow frame is not only feasible but also completely safe.
Final Verdict:
Installing a Ring Doorbell in a narrow space requires careful consideration. Factors like mounting height, model selection, and accessories are crucial for optimal setup. Solutions range from using corner kits for angle adjustment to choosing slimmer models like the Ring Pro.
Alternative mounting options, such as on a wall or door, offer flexibility. Ensuring installation doesn’t obstruct the power source and maintaining device safety are essential. By addressing these challenges, homeowners can overcome narrow space constraints, ensuring their Ring Doorbell offers optimal security and convenience.