Install Nest Doorbell (wired, 2nd gen)

While the Nest doorbell can replace most wired doorbells, there are some cases where the doorbell system either doesn’t provide enough power or provides too much power. You should check that your current doorbell can be replaced by the Nest doorbell.

Check doorbell system compatibility with Nest doorbell

1. Switch the power off for your doorbell and chime at your home’s breaker or fuse box. This will protect you and your equipment during installation. 
2. Try to ring your doorbell to confirm that you’ve flipped the right switch to turn the power off. If needed, you can switch off the main power at the breaker box instead.

Remove your old doorbell and disconnect the wires. You’ll probably need a screwdriver for this step. 

Tip: As you remove your old doorbell, bend the doorbell wires or tape them so that they don’t slip back into the wall.

Remove Nest Doorbell (wired, 1st gen)

If you are replacing the Nest Doorbell (wired) with the 2nd gen doorbell, you’ll need to remove the chime connector that came with it, too. The first gen doorbell connector is not compatible with the 2nd gen doorbell.

Use the instructions in Uninstall wired Nest doorbells and chime connector to remove your old hardware. Then continue to step 5.

During setup, the app lets you connect your doorbell to Wi-Fi, personalize settings, check the video quality, and more.

If you have any issues, here are some quick tips.

Connection issues

If you can’t find your Wi-Fi network, or if your doorbell has trouble connecting to the Wi-Fi, here are a few things you can do to try and fix the issue:

• Wait a few minutes, then try to connect your doorbell again.
• If possible, move your doorbell and router closer to each other to improve the signal.
• Reduce wireless interference.
• Try restarting your router.
• If you have a hidden Wi-Fi network, you’ll need to type in the network name (SSID) manually in the app.

Power issues

Signs that your doorbell isn’t getting enough power include the following:

• Your doorbell won’t turn on.
• You get a message or status in the app telling you there isn’t enough power.
• Things like the Wi-Fi connection and the video quality can also be reduced when there isn’t enough power.

To try to fix the issue, check that the power is on for your home’s doorbell system and that the wires are connected properly to your doorbell.

Note: Some doorbell systems have complex wiring that might not have diagrams in the app. In this case, refer to wiring diagrams in our Help Center for additional help.

Video quality issues

If your doorbell is having video delays or lag, it’s usually a sign that the Wi-Fi connection is weak. It could also be a sign that your doorbell isn’t getting enough power. Try the following to try to fix the issue:

• If possible, move your doorbell and router closer to each other to improve the signal.
• Reduce wireless interference.
• Check that the wires are connected properly to your doorbell.

If your doorbell’s video is distorted, here are a few things you can do to troubleshoot:

• Dust off the camera lens.
• Ensure your doorbell is shaded and protected from extreme weather conditions. While Nest doorbells are built to work outside of your home, extreme hot or cold temperatures can affect things like the video quality.

For more tips, go to our Troubleshoot Nest camera video distortion article.

Learn more about Nest doorbell basics, how to change settings, and more in our Get started using your Nest doorbell article.