How to Wire Aqara Video Doorbell A Step by Step Guide

Wiring the Aqara Video Doorbell is a straightforward DIY project that ensures reliable power and seamless smart home integration. Follow the step-by-step process—turn off power, connect wires to the correct terminals, and secure the mount—for a safe, professional-grade installation. With minimal tools and attention to detail, you’ll have a fully functional, high-performance doorbell in no time.

Key Takeaways

• Turn off power first: Always shut off electricity at the breaker before wiring.
• Check voltage requirements: Ensure your transformer meets Aqara’s 8–24V AC power specs.
• Use existing doorbell wires: Reuse old wiring for a quick, clean installation.
• Test chime compatibility: Verify mechanical/digital chimes work with Aqara’s power output.
• Secure Wi-Fi signal: Position the doorbell within strong router range for stable video.
• Follow app instructions: Use Aqara’s app for guided setup and firmware updates.

Understanding the Aqara Video Doorbell: Features and Benefits

The Aqara Video Doorbell is a game-changer for homeowners seeking to upgrade their home security and convenience. Unlike traditional doorbells that merely alert you to a visitor’s presence, the Aqara Video Doorbell offers a full suite of smart features, including 1080p HD video, two-way audio, night vision, and motion detection. It integrates seamlessly with the broader Aqara smart home ecosystem, allowing users to control and monitor their doorbell through the Aqara app, voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit (via HomeKit Secure Video), and even through automation routines. Whether you’re at home, at work, or on vacation, the Aqara Video Doorbell ensures you never miss a visitor and always know who’s at your door.

One of the standout features of the Aqara Video Doorbell is its dual power options: it can be powered either by an existing doorbell transformer (wired installation) or by a rechargeable battery (wireless setup). This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of homes, from older constructions with legacy wiring to newer builds where drilling and wiring might be less desirable. However, for those seeking a permanent, maintenance-free solution with uninterrupted power and no need for frequent recharging, the wired installation is the ideal choice. This guide will walk you through how to wire an Aqara Video Doorbell step by step, ensuring a secure, reliable, and professional-grade installation. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a homeowner looking to understand the process before hiring an electrician, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from assessing your current doorbell setup to configuring the Aqara app for optimal performance.

Preparing for Installation: Tools, Materials, and Safety

Gather the Essential Tools and Materials

Before you begin wiring your Aqara Video Doorbell, it’s crucial to have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. Rushing mid-installation to find a missing tool can lead to mistakes or safety hazards. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:

• Aqara Video Doorbell kit (includes the doorbell unit, mounting plate, screws, anchors, and wire connectors)
• Screwdriver set (Phillips #2 and flathead)
• Wire strippers (for trimming existing doorbell wires)
• Voltage tester (non-contact or multimeter)
• Drill and drill bits (for masonry or wood, depending on your wall type)
• Level (to ensure the doorbell is mounted straight)
• Electrical tape (optional, for securing wire connections)
• Smartphone or tablet (for app setup and troubleshooting)
• Smart home hub (optional) – Aqara Hub M1S or M2 is required for full functionality, especially for local storage and HomeKit support

Pro tip: If your home is brick, stucco, or concrete, consider using a masonry drill bit and wall anchors designed for heavy-duty mounting. For wood or siding, standard screws and anchors from the kit should suffice.

Assess Your Existing Doorbell System

Before disconnecting anything, evaluate your current doorbell setup. Most homes have a simple low-voltage doorbell circuit consisting of:

• A doorbell transformer (typically located in the basement, attic, or near the electrical panel)
• Wiring running from the transformer to the doorbell button and chime unit
• A mechanical or digital chime inside the house

Use a voltage tester to confirm the voltage at the doorbell button terminals. The Aqara Video Doorbell requires **12–24V AC** to operate. If your transformer outputs 16V AC (common in North American homes), you’re in good shape. However, if the voltage is below 10V or above 28V, you may need to replace the transformer or use a voltage regulator. Never attempt to power the Aqara doorbell with DC voltage or household line voltage (120V), as this will damage the device.

Prioritize Safety First

Safety is paramount when working with electrical systems, even low-voltage ones. Follow these steps to ensure a safe installation:

• Turn off the power to the doorbell circuit at the main electrical panel. While doorbell systems use low voltage, the transformer is connected to line voltage, so always disconnect it at the source.
• Use a non-contact voltage tester to verify that the wires at the doorbell button are de-energized.
• Wear insulated gloves if you’re working in a damp or humid area.
• If you’re unsure about any electrical component, consult a licensed electrician. It’s better to pay for professional help than risk injury or damage.

Example: One homeowner in Seattle skipped the voltage test and accidentally touched live wires, resulting in a minor shock and a blown fuse in their transformer. Always double-check!

Step-by-Step Wiring Process: From Old Doorbell to Aqara

Remove the Existing Doorbell Button

Start by removing the old doorbell button. Most buttons are mounted with two screws. Use your screwdriver to loosen them, then gently pull the button away from the wall. You’ll see two wires connected to the back—usually labeled “Front” and “Trans” or simply “1” and “2.”

Carefully disconnect the wires by unscrewing the terminals. If the wires are short, you may need to pull them slightly out of the wall using gentle tugs. Wrap the exposed ends with electrical tape temporarily to prevent accidental contact. Take a photo of the wiring configuration for reference—this can be invaluable if you need to troubleshoot later.

Prepare the Wires for the Aqara Doorbell

Strip about 1/4 inch (6 mm) of insulation from the ends of the doorbell wires using wire strippers. This exposes fresh copper for a solid connection. If the wires are frayed or corroded, trim them back and re-strip. Clean copper ensures better conductivity and reduces the risk of connection failure.

Pro tip: If the wires are too short to reach the Aqara mounting plate comfortably, you can splice in extension wires using wire nuts or lever connectors. Just ensure the splice is secure and insulated with tape or heat shrink.

Mount the Aqara Doorbell Plate

Align the Aqara mounting plate with the existing screw holes or drill new ones if needed. Use a level to ensure it’s straight—this is critical for optimal camera angle and motion detection. For brick or stucco, drill pilot holes and insert wall anchors. For wood, you can drive the screws directly.

Once the plate is secure, thread the doorbell wires through the center hole. Connect the wires to the two screw terminals on the back of the mounting plate. It doesn’t matter which wire goes to which terminal, as the Aqara doorbell is non-polarized. However, for consistency, many installers connect the wire from the transformer (“Trans”) to the left terminal and the “Front” wire to the right.

Tighten the terminal screws firmly, but don’t over-torque, as this can damage the contacts. A loose connection can cause intermittent operation or no power at all.

Attach the Aqara Doorbell Unit

With the mounting plate wired and secure, it’s time to attach the Aqara Video Doorbell unit. Align the tabs on the back of the doorbell with the slots on the plate, then slide it down until it clicks into place. You should hear a satisfying “snap” indicating it’s locked.

Double-check that the unit is seated properly and that the wires aren’t pinched or stressed. If the doorbell feels loose, remove it and inspect the plate alignment. A poorly mounted unit can lead to water ingress and premature failure.

Reconnect Power and Test the Connection

Go back to your electrical panel and restore power to the doorbell circuit. Within 30–60 seconds, the Aqara doorbell should power on. You’ll hear a startup chime, and the status LED will flash white. Press the button—if the chime inside your house rings, the wiring is successful!

However, if nothing happens, don’t panic. Common issues include:

• Loose wire connections (recheck terminal screws)
• Blown transformer fuse (replace or reset)
• Incorrect voltage (use a multimeter to verify)
• Faulty chime (bypass it temporarily by connecting the wires directly at the transformer)

Example: A homeowner in Austin, Texas, couldn’t get the doorbell to power on. After troubleshooting, they discovered the chime unit had failed internally, creating an open circuit. Bypassing the chime resolved the issue.

Configuring the Aqara App: Connectivity and Smart Features

Download and Set Up the Aqara App

Download the Aqara Home app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Create an account or log in if you already have one. The app is your central hub for managing the doorbell and integrating it with other Aqara devices.

Tap the “+” icon to add a new device. Select “Video Doorbell” from the list. The app will guide you through the pairing process. Make sure your smartphone is connected to your home Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz band—5 GHz is not supported).

Pair the Doorbell with Your Network

Press and hold the reset button on the side of the Aqara doorbell for 5 seconds until the LED flashes blue. This puts it into pairing mode. In the app, follow the on-screen prompts to scan the QR code on the doorbell or enter the device ID manually.

The app will attempt to connect the doorbell to your Wi-Fi network. Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted. If the connection fails, ensure:

• Your router is within 30 feet of the doorbell (with minimal obstructions)
• The Wi-Fi password is correct (case-sensitive)
• Your router isn’t blocking IoT devices or using MAC filtering

Once connected, the app will prompt you to name the doorbell (e.g., “Front Door”) and assign it to a room. This helps with voice control and automation.

Enable Smart Features and Notifications

The Aqara app offers a wealth of customization options:

• Motion Detection Zones: Define areas of the camera view to monitor (e.g., porch, sidewalk). Avoid busy streets to reduce false alerts.
• Notification Settings: Choose when to receive alerts (motion, doorbell press, or both). Enable “Do Not Disturb” during nighttime hours.
• Two-Way Audio: Test the mic and speaker to ensure clear communication.
• Night Vision: The doorbell uses IR LEDs for black-and-white video in low light. Adjust sensitivity if needed.
• HomeKit Integration: If you have an Aqara Hub, enable HomeKit for end-to-end encrypted video and Siri control.

Pro tip: Set up automation rules, such as turning on porch lights when motion is detected after sunset. This enhances security and convenience.

Optimizing Performance: Positioning, Lighting, and Maintenance

Adjust the Camera Angle and View

The default mounting height for the Aqara doorbell is 48–60 inches (120–150 cm) above the ground. This ensures the camera captures faces clearly while minimizing glare from the sun. Use the Aqara app to preview the live feed and adjust the doorbell’s position if necessary.

If the view is too high (showing the sky) or too low (showing feet), loosen the mounting plate and reposition it. You can also use the included angle adjustment shims to tilt the camera up or down. Aim for a 15–20 degree downward tilt for optimal coverage.

Improve Lighting for Night Vision

While the Aqara doorbell has built-in IR night vision (effective up to 16 feet), adding ambient lighting can improve video quality. Consider:

• Installing a smart porch light that turns on with motion or doorbell press
• Using a low-wattage LED bulb to avoid glare in the camera
• Avoiding direct light sources (e.g., floodlights) that can wash out the image

Example: A homeowner in Denver added a Philips Hue porch light and set it to turn on at 50% brightness when the Aqara doorbell detects motion. This provided clear, color night footage without disturbing neighbors.

Regular Maintenance and Troubleshooting

To keep your Aqara Video Doorbell running smoothly:

• Clean the lens monthly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust, pollen, or spider webs
• Check for firmware updates in the Aqara app (Settings > Device > Firmware)
• Inspect wiring annually for corrosion or loose connections
• Test motion detection by walking through the monitored zones

If the doorbell stops responding, try a hard reset: remove it from the mounting plate, wait 30 seconds, then reattach and power cycle. If issues persist, contact Aqara support or consult an electrician.

Comparing Wired vs. Wireless Aqara Doorbell Installations

Pros and Cons of Wired Installation

Wiring the Aqara Video Doorbell offers several advantages:

• Uninterrupted power: No need to recharge batteries (unlike the battery-powered model)
• Stable performance: No risk of power-related disconnections
• Higher video quality: Wired models often support higher frame rates and better compression
• Long-term cost savings: Eliminates battery replacement costs

However, wired installation requires access to existing doorbell wiring or the ability to run new wires. It’s also less flexible if you plan to move the doorbell later.

When to Choose Wireless (Battery-Powered)

The battery-powered Aqara doorbell is ideal if:

• Your home has no existing doorbell wiring
• You rent and can’t modify electrical systems
• You want a quick, temporary setup

But be prepared for monthly recharging (battery life varies based on usage) and slightly lower performance in cold weather.

Feature	Wired Aqara Doorbell	Wireless (Battery) Aqara Doorbell
Power Source	12–24V AC from transformer	Rechargeable lithium battery
Installation Time	60–90 minutes (with wiring)	20–30 minutes
Maintenance	Low (no battery changes)	Monthly recharging
Video Quality	1080p @ 30fps (consistent)	1080p @ 20fps (may vary)
Best For	Permanent, high-use installations	Temporary or retrofit setups

Ultimately, how to wire an Aqara Video Doorbell is a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking reliability and long-term performance. The initial effort pays off in peace of mind, enhanced security, and seamless smart home integration.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Smarter, Safer Home

Wiring your Aqara Video Doorbell is more than just a technical upgrade—it’s a step toward a smarter, safer, and more connected home. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ve transformed a simple doorbell into a powerful security tool that keeps you informed, in control, and in touch with everyone who visits. From assessing your electrical setup and safely disconnecting the old system to mounting the Aqara unit, configuring the app, and optimizing performance, each stage ensures a seamless and professional installation.

The Aqara Video Doorbell isn’t just about seeing who’s at the door; it’s about peace of mind. Whether you’re screening deliveries, greeting guests remotely, or deterring suspicious activity with motion alerts, this device empowers you with real-time information and two-way communication. And with features like HomeKit Secure Video, local storage options, and integration with other Aqara sensors and lights, the possibilities for automation are endless. Remember, a well-installed doorbell is only as good as its maintenance—so keep the lens clean, update the firmware, and periodically test all features to ensure everything runs smoothly.

As smart home technology continues to evolve, devices like the Aqara Video Doorbell are becoming essential components of modern living. By choosing the wired option, you’ve opted for reliability, longevity, and uninterrupted service—qualities that matter most when it comes to home security. Whether you’re a tech-savvy DIYer or a homeowner who values convenience, the effort you’ve put into wiring your Aqara doorbell will pay dividends for years to come. Welcome to the future of front-door security—one ring at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I wire the Aqara video doorbell to my existing doorbell system?

To wire the Aqara video doorbell, first turn off power at the breaker, then connect the doorbell’s wires to your existing chime transformer (8-24V AC). Use the included wire connectors and follow the polarity markings (N and L) for secure installation.

Can I install the Aqara video doorbell without a wired connection?

The Aqara video doorbell requires a wired connection for continuous power, but it supports dual power options: wired (via transformer) or battery (sold separately). For stable performance, a wired setup is recommended.

What tools do I need to wire the Aqara video doorbell?

You’ll need a screwdriver, voltage tester, wire strippers, and the included wiring kit (connectors, screws). Ensure the transformer voltage matches the Aqara’s 8-24V AC requirement before starting.

How do I troubleshoot wiring issues with my Aqara video doorbell?

If the doorbell doesn’t power on, double-check wire connections, transformer voltage, and breaker status. Use the Aqara app’s setup guide to verify wiring steps and test chime functionality.

Is it safe to wire the Aqara video doorbell myself, or should I hire an electrician?

If you’re comfortable working with low-voltage wiring and have verified your transformer’s compatibility, DIY installation is safe. Otherwise, consult an electrician to avoid electrical hazards or damage.

Does the Aqara video doorbell work with all types of doorbell chimes?

The Aqara video doorbell supports most mechanical and digital chimes, but verify compatibility in the product manual. For non-compatible chimes, use the Aqara wireless chime or disable the internal chime in the app.