How can I install my Arlo Video Doorbell without an existing doorbell or chime?

The Arlo Video Doorbell requires a voltage between 16-24V AC to operate and is designed to replace an existing wired doorbell. However, to install your Arlo Video Doorbell without an existing doorbell or chime, you can use a plug-in AC transformer that provides 16-24V AC, with at least 1A output. Continue reading this article for instructions to install your Arlo Video Doorbell with a plug-in AC transformer.

Note: The installation steps to install the Arlo Video Doorbell with a plug-in AC transformer are different than those provided within the Arlo app. You will need to skip some screens and follow this article instead.

Alternatively, you can consult an electrician to install an appropriate doorbell transformer and chime, with voltage between 16-24V AC, 10VA.

What you need

To install your Arlo Video Doorbell, you must have the following items:

An Arlo Video Doorbell
A plug-in AC transformer that provides 16-24V AC with at least 1A output
The flat mounting plate (attached to the doorbell in the box)
(Optional) The angled mounting plate
The Security Release Pin
The Arlo app
A screwdriver
(Optional) A power drill

Before you begin

The Arlo app provides instructions on how to replace an existing wired doorbell with the Arlo Video Doorbell, so you must skip these screens in the onboarding process.

To skip past the wiring instructions in the Arlo app:

Launch the Arlo app on iOS (Apple) or Android.
The Devices screen appears.
Tap Add New Device, and follow the introductory screens for the Video Doorbell.
Skip “Locate your existing chime box” by tapping Continue.
Skip “Turn off power at the breaker” by tapping Continue.
Skip “Find the Power Kit” by tapping Continue.
Skip “Remove the cover of the chime box” by tapping Continue.
Skip “Which looks like your chime box?” by selecting Wires.
Skip “How many wires do you see connected?” by selecting Two.
Skip “What are your chime terminals labeled as?” by selecting Front, Trans, Rear.
Swipe left to skip past all screens.
Skip “Replace chime cover” by pressing Continue.
Follow the instruction to mount your Arlo Video Doorbell.

Install your Arlo Video Doorbell

Select the appropriate mounting location for your Arlo Video Doorbell.

Note: Most plug-in AC power adapters are only indoor rated and should not be plugged into an outdoor power outlet. You may need to drill a hole through your home’s exterior wall for the power cable to connect to your Arlo Video Doorbell. Contact a local electrician or contractor if you are not comfortable with this work.

To install your Arlo Video Doorbell:

Keep the Arlo Video Doorbell onboarding process in the Arlo app open.
With the plug-in AC power adapter unplugged, route the AC wires to the desired location for your Arlo Video Doorbell.
If you need the AC power adapter to be plugged in, turn off the power at the breaker.
Install your Arlo Video Doorbell with or without the mounting wedge.
For more information, visit How do I use the angled mounting wedge that came with my Arlo Video Doorbell?.
Plug in the AC power adapter or turn on the power at the breaker.
Ensure that the LED ring on the front of your Arlo Video Doorbell are white.
- If the LEDs are solid amber, your plug-in AC transformer might not supply 16-24V AC. To check the voltage level, visit How do I measure the voltage of my doorbell transformer?.
- If the LEDs are off, your Arlo Video Doorbell might be booting up. Wait for a few minutes to confirm. If the LED remains off, visit What do the LED behaviors mean on my Arlo Video Doorbell?.
- If the LEDs are flashing amber, the temperature or battery is too low, and the device needs to stay powered for a moment before it can operate.
Connect your Arlo Video Doorbell to an Arlo base station or directly to a router.
Note: Use the Arlo app for detailed instructions on both of these processes.
At the end of the installation process, select None as the Traditional Chime option to avoid any damage to your plug-in AC power adapter.