Are you staring at your front porch wondering exactly where to drill? Whether you’re trying to catch a side view of a narrow walkway or securing a sliding patio door, placement is the key to performance.
Beyond mere convenience, strategic doorbell positioning is a proven deterrent; in fact, research shows that visible video doorbells can significantly fortify home safety and reduce burglary attempts by providing 24/7 surveillance.
In this guide, we’ll break down the optimal mounting heights, the best angles for tricky entryways, and the common mistakes that lead to missed deliveries and false alerts.
Table of Contents
The 48-Inch Rule: Achieving Optimal Efficiency
Most people instinctively want to mount their Ring at eye level. Don't. Many video doorbells, like Ring, use Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors to detect motion. These sensors "look" outward and downward. If you mount the device too high, it may skip the person walking up your path and only trigger once they are inches from the lens.
- The Sweet Spot: Mount your Ring exactly 48 inches (1.2 meters) off the ground.
- The Benefit: This height ensures the camera captures both the faces of visitors and packages left on the floor.
Wall vs. Door Frame: Finding the Right Angle
Your "best" spot depends entirely on your home’s architecture.
Door Frame Mounting (The Standard)
If your door frame is wide enough, this is the cleanest look. It provides a direct, head-on view of anyone ringing the bell.
- Best for: Standard porches with a clear line of sight to the street.
Wall Mounting (The Alternative)
If your door is recessed (tucked into a nook), mounting on the frame will result in "tunnel vision," where the wall blocks half the camera's view.
Pro Tip: Use a Wedge Kit or Corner Kit (usually 15° to 25°) to angle the camera back toward the walkway. This eliminates the "dead zone" created by the wall.
The Fix: Mount the Ring on the exterior wall adjacent to the door.
Porch & Side Views: Balancing Coverage and Clarity
To get a "side view" of your home—perhaps to monitor a side gate or a long driveway—placement on a pillar or corner wall is ideal. This allows the Ring to act as both a doorbell and a peripheral security camera.
Check Your Signal: Before mounting on a peripheral pillar, check your Wi-Fi signal at that exact spot. Brick and stone can significantly degrade your connection.
Patio Doors: Optimizing Back-Entry Security
High-traffic back decks and sliding glass doors are often overlooked.
Clearance: Ensure the camera's view isn't blocked by patio umbrellas, grills, or outdoor furniture.
The Glass Challenge: Never mount the Ring behind glass, as the infrared sensors won't work through the pane.
Mounting Options: If there is no solid frame, use a specialized "No-Drill Mount" that adheres to the glass or mount it on the siding immediately next to the sliding door.
Common Placement Blunders to Avoid
Steer clear of these frequent errors:
Sun-Blindness: Avoid pointing the lens directly at the horizon where the sun rises or sets. Extreme glare can wash out video and trigger "false" motion alerts.
The "Staircase" Oversight: If your front door is at the top of a flight of stairs, the camera will look over people's heads. Use a Level Wedge to tilt the camera downward.
Ignoring Landlord Rules: If you’re renting, use a No-Drill Apartment Mount that clamps onto the door without damaging the wood or siding.
The "Too Low" Trap: Mounting below 3 feet will result in a view of people’s belt buckles rather than their faces.
Wi-Fi Dead Zones: Always "test before you rest." Hold the doorbell in the desired spot and check the "Device Health" in the Ring app to ensure your RSSI (signal strength) is in the green.
Other Considerations
Beyond the basic installation, keep in mind:
- Landlord Permission: If renting, obtain approval.
- Local Regulations: Be aware of any installation restrictions.
- Camera Angling: Optimize the angle for clear video capture.
Final Thoughts
By following these guidelines, your Ring doorbell will be ideally positioned to enhance your home's security while offering convenience and reassurance. Next, check out our additional resources for more insights on the advanced features that can elevate your home security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a Ring doorbell on patio doors?
Absolutely! Placing a Ring doorbell on patio doors is an excellent way to enhance security. Make sure it's positioned at the recommended height of 4 feet and has a clear view of the area you want to monitor. Avoid locations where it might be obstructed by furniture or other objects.
Can I install a Ring doorbell on a wall instead of a door frame?
Yes, you can install a Ring doorbell on a wall. It's important to position it in a way that provides a clear view of your entryway without obstructions. Ensure the doorbell is not exposed to direct sunlight, which can affect camera performance.
