What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall for specific Ring Video Doorbells due to a significant safety concern involving the installation process. This action affects the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation), specifically those units identified by the model number 5UM5E5. These are smart doorbell cameras designed to provide homeowners with visual and audio monitoring capabilities at their front entrance. The affected devices feature a distinctive blue ring around the front lens and are available in two distinct color finishes: "satin nickel," which presents as a combination of black and silver, and "venetian bronze," which appears as black and bronze. Each unit was originally sold packaged with a mounting bracket and a USB charging cable, allowing for flexible power options where the doorbell can be either hardwired into your home’s electrical system or operated on battery power.
The scope of this recall is defined strictly by the serial number of the device. While the general product line includes features such as two-way audio communication and night vision capabilities, only Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) models with certain specific serial numbers are included in this safety alert. The brand logo is printed on the bottom front of the doorbell unit itself, while the crucial model and serial number information can be found on a label located on the back of the doorbell and also on its outer packaging. Because the recall is tied to specific manufacturing batches rather than the entire product line indefinitely, it is essential for consumers to verify their unique serial number against the official list provided by Ring.
These recalled video doorbells were sold at various retail locations nationwide prior to the recall date of November 10, 2020. The primary issue identified in this recall stems from the interaction between the device’s battery and the hardware used for its installation. When the incorrect screws are used during the setup process, it can cause the video doorbell's battery to overheat. This overheating poses a dual hazard: it creates a risk of fire within the home’s entryway and presents a direct burn hazard to anyone who might come into contact with the hot device. Ring has received 85 incident reports related to this issue, with 23 of those doorbells actually igniting, resulting in minor property damage. Additionally, the company has documented eight reports of consumers suffering minor burns. As such, this recall is not a minor administrative update but a serious safety intervention requiring immediate attention from owners of these specific units.
The hazard, explained
The core issue with this recall is not a flaw in the Ring Video Doorbell’s internal electronics or software, but rather a physical mismatch between the device and the hardware used to attach it to your home. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the danger arises when specific incorrect screws are used during installation. These wrong screws interact poorly with the doorbell’s mounting bracket, creating a chain of events that can lead to dangerous overheating.
To understand how this happens, it helps to look at the mechanics of the connection. The video doorbell is designed to sit securely against your wall via a mounting bracket. This setup requires screws that are the correct length and thread type to hold the device firmly without compressing or damaging its internal components. When an installer uses the wrong screws—typically those that are too long—they can penetrate too deeply into the back of the unit. This excessive pressure can damage the battery compartment or the electrical contacts within the doorbell.
The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) relies on a lithium-ion battery to function, especially when set to battery-powered mode. Lithium-ion batteries are highly efficient but sensitive to physical stress and short circuits. If the incorrect screws compromise the integrity of the battery casing or force the internal terminals into an improper position, it can create a short circuit. This electrical fault causes the battery to overheat rapidly. In normal conditions, modern batteries have safety mechanisms to prevent this, but severe mechanical damage from wrong hardware can overwhelm these safeguards.
Once the battery begins to overheat, the heat has nowhere to go but out. The plastic casing of the doorbell is not designed to withstand extreme temperatures. As the internal temperature rises, it can melt surrounding components and ignite nearby materials. This is why the recall cites incidents where the doorbells literally caught fire. The CPSC reports that out of 85 incident reports received by Ring, 23 doorbells actually ignited due to this specific installation error. Beyond the risk of property damage from flames, the intense heat poses a direct burn hazard to anyone who touches the device or is near it when the failure occurs.
This type of hazard is particularly insidious because it often happens silently during or shortly after installation. The screws may look like they are holding the doorbell in place, but the internal damage is already done. Over time, or upon first use, the compromised battery can reach critical temperatures. This is why the remedy focuses on stopping installation immediately and seeking revised instructions that specify the exact hardware needed to ensure a safe, non-damaging fit.
Who is most at risk
While any household member could theoretically be exposed to the dangers associated with this recall, the individuals facing the highest level of immediate physical danger are those who live in homes where these Ring Video Doorbells (2nd Generation) have been installed using the incorrect screws. The core of the hazard lies in a mechanical failure: when the wrong hardware is used to mount the device, the battery can overheat significantly during charging or operation. This is not merely a minor inconvenience; it is a scenario that creates both a fire risk and a direct burn hazard. Therefore, the people most at risk are those who have physical proximity to the front door area where the unit is mounted, particularly during the moments when the device is charging or actively in use.
Children and elderly individuals often fall into the category of highest vulnerability for several practical reasons. Children, by nature, are curious and may interact with objects at door level without fully understanding the risks involved. If a doorbell casing becomes hot due to battery overheating, a child touching it could suffer immediate minor burns. Furthermore, young children may not recognize the early signs of an electrical malfunction, such as unusual heat, smoke, or odors, delaying their ability to alert adults. For elderly residents, reaction times may be slower, and mobility issues might make it difficult to quickly exit a space if a small fire were to ignite near the entrance. Additionally, if the installation is in a high-traffic entryway, anyone opening or closing the front door could accidentally brush against a hot surface.
The incident reports confirm that this risk is real and has already resulted in harm. Ring has documented 85 incidents involving these specific models, with 23 of those doorbells actually igniting. These fires have caused minor property damage, indicating that the heat generated is sufficient to ignite surrounding materials like siding, trim, or packaging materials left nearby. The eight reported cases of minor burns underscore that the surface temperature can reach dangerous levels quickly. This means that anyone who frequently uses the front entrance—whether delivering packages, greeting guests, or simply entering and exiting their home—is potentially exposed to these hazards if the faulty screws are still in place.
It is also important to consider the timing of the risk. The hazard is most acute when the doorbell is charging via its USB cable or when it is drawing power while hardwired. During these periods, the battery generates more heat. If the incorrect screws prevent proper heat dissipation or cause a short circuit, the temperature can spike rapidly. Therefore, residents who charge their devices frequently or live in climates where outdoor temperatures are already high may face an amplified risk, as external heat adds to the internal heat generated by the malfunctioning battery.
Ultimately, the group most at risk includes anyone who has installed these specific 2nd Generation models with the wrong screws and has not yet stopped using them. The risk is not limited to the owner; it extends to visitors, delivery personnel, and family members who come into contact with the front door area. Because the hazard involves both fire and thermal burns, the potential for injury is significant enough that immediate action is required for all occupants of the home.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your specific video doorbell is part of this recall requires a careful look at both the physical device and its accompanying packaging. The primary target of this safety notice is the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation). To confirm you have this exact model, start by examining the front face of the unit. You should see a distinctive blue ring illuminated around the camera lens. It is important to note that this recall covers units in two specific color finishes: "satin nickel," which appears as a combination of black and silver, and "venetian bronze," which features black and bronze tones. If your doorbell matches these visual descriptions, it is a strong candidate for inclusion, but visual inspection alone is not enough to be certain.
The most definitive way to verify if your device is affected is by checking the serial number. This unique identifier is located in two places on the hardware itself. First, look at the bottom front of the doorbell; while this area typically displays the Ring logo, you must turn your attention to the back of the unit. On the rear panel, there is a label that contains both the model number and the serial number (S/N). The specific model number for these recalled units is 5UM5E5. If you no longer have the original box, this rear label is your primary source of truth. However, if you still have the outer packaging, the same model and serial information can be found on a label attached to that box as well.
Once you have located the serial number on the back label or the original packaging, do not rely on guesswork. The recall applies only to Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) models with certain specific serial numbers. You must verify your device against the official list to be sure. Go to http://support.ring.com/ring-2nd-gen-recall and enter your doorbell's serial number into the lookup tool provided on that page. This step is critical because not all 2nd Generation units are included in this specific safety action, but those with the flagged serial numbers pose a fire risk if installed with the incorrect screws.
Additionally, consider how you acquired the device to help narrow down your search. These recalled video doorbells were sold complete with a mounting bracket and a USB charging cable. They are two-way audio doorbells that can be configured for either hardwired or battery-powered operation and support night vision features. If you purchased a similar unit from a retailer but cannot find the serial number on the device, check your purchase records or the original box for the 5UM5E5 model designation. When in doubt, the online verification tool is the most reliable method to confirm whether your specific serial number falls within the scope of this recall.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation), your immediate priority is to ensure the safety of your home and family by halting any ongoing installation efforts right now. The core issue with this recall involves the specific screws provided for mounting the device. If the incorrect screws are used, the battery inside the doorbell can overheat significantly, creating a genuine fire and burn hazard. Therefore, the very first step in your action plan is to stop installing the recalled video doorbells immediately. Do not proceed with wiring or securing the unit to your exterior wall until you have reviewed the correct procedures. If you have already installed the device but haven’t powered it on for use yet, leave it disconnected and do not attempt to complete the setup.
Once you have paused any installation activities, you need to verify whether your specific unit is part of this recall. Not every Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) is affected; only those with certain serial numbers are included. To check your status, you should visit Ring’s dedicated support page at http://support.ring.com/ring-2nd-gen-recall. You will need to locate the serial number on a label on the back of your doorbell or on the outer packaging and enter it into their verification tool. This step is crucial because it confirms whether your specific hardware requires remediation or if you are clear to proceed with standard installation using the updated guidelines.
If your device is confirmed to be part of the recall, your next step is to contact Ring directly to obtain revised installation instructions. You have two convenient options for reaching their support team. You can call them toll-free at 800-656-1918. Their customer service representatives are available seven days a week, from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Pacific Time. Alternatively, you can navigate to www.Ring.com, click on the "Help" section, and then select "Installation Services." Ring will provide you with the corrected installation instructions that ensure the proper screws are used, thereby eliminating the risk of battery overheating. Following these revised instructions is essential to safely using your doorbell without risking property damage or personal injury.
While the primary remedy provided by the company involves receiving revised installation instructions rather than a direct product replacement or refund at this stage, it is important to follow their guidance precisely. The goal is to allow you to install the device safely using the correct hardware. By adhering to these steps—stopping use, verifying your serial number, and obtaining the corrected instructions—you are taking all necessary precautions against the reported incidents of ignition and minor burns associated with this recall.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that your Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) is part of this recall, the good news is that Ring has established a clear and accessible path to resolve the issue. The primary remedy offered by the company is not an immediate cash refund or a free shipping label for a replacement unit right out of the gate. Instead, the core solution provided in the official recall notice is the provision of revised installation instructions. This might initially seem surprising if you were expecting a full product exchange, but it addresses the root cause of the problem: the specific way the device was being mounted.
The hazard stems from the use of incorrect screws during the initial setup, which can cause the battery to overheat and potentially ignite. By providing updated instructions, Ring aims to ensure that if you continue to use your current doorbell, it is installed in a manner that eliminates the fire risk. You can access these revised instructions directly on Ring’s website or through their support portal. The goal here is safety first; by correcting the installation method, you can potentially keep using a device that might otherwise function perfectly well once the mounting error is fixed.
To get started with this remedy, you need to contact Ring directly. You have two main options for reaching them. First, you can call their dedicated support line at 800-656-1918. This line is available seven days a week, operating from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Pacific Time. This wide window of availability is helpful if you need assistance outside of standard business hours. Alternatively, you can visit www.Ring.com and navigate to the "Help" section, then select "Installation Services." From there, you can find further guidance on how to proceed with the corrected installation steps.
It is important to note that while the recall facts provided do not explicitly mention a refund or a free replacement unit for those who wish to upgrade, they do emphasize stopping the installation immediately if you have not yet set up the device. If you are in the process of installing it, stop now and contact Ring before proceeding. For those who have already installed it incorrectly, the priority is to cease using the current setup and follow the new instructions or speak with a representative about your specific situation. The company has received reports of ignition and minor burns, so treating this recall with urgency is critical. Do not assume that a simple software update fixes the hardware mounting issue; the physical installation must be corrected according to the new guidelines provided by Ring.
If you encounter difficulties following the revised instructions or if you feel your safety is still compromised despite following the steps, do not hesitate to speak with a Ring representative again. They are the only source for official remedy details in this context. While the recall documentation focuses on the provision of corrected installation guides, customer service agents may be able to offer additional assistance depending on your individual circumstances. Always verify any further terms or options directly through the official channels mentioned above, as policies can evolve and it is crucial to rely on the most current information from Ring itself.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is understandable that the inconvenience of pausing your home security upgrade feels significant when you have already invested time and money into the installation process. However, ignoring this specific recall is not merely a matter of voiding a warranty or dealing with a minor technical glitch; it involves accepting a tangible risk to the physical safety of your home and personal well-being. The core issue here is not that the doorbell will stop working, but that the device itself can become a source of ignition due to a fundamental mismatch in its installation hardware. When the incorrect screws are used, they fail to properly secure the internal components or manage the electrical connections as intended by the engineering design. This mechanical failure allows the battery inside the unit to overheat. While modern lithium-ion batteries are generally safe, an uncontrolled thermal event can escalate quickly from a warm device to one that generates enough heat to cause injury or start a fire.
The consequences of continuing to use the recalled Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) with the wrong screws range from property damage to personal injury. According to reports received by the manufacturer, this hazard is not theoretical. There have been numerous instances where the doorbells actually ignited after being installed with the non-compliant hardware. These fires have resulted in minor property damage, which can include scorch marks on walls, damaged mounting brackets, or the destruction of the doorbell unit itself. More alarmingly, there have been confirmed reports of consumers suffering minor burns. This means that simply touching the device during or after installation, or being in close proximity when the overheating occurs, poses a direct threat to your skin and safety.
Beyond the immediate physical risks, there is a secondary danger related to the location of the device. Video doorbells are typically installed near entryways, often on wooden siding, near curtains, or in areas with accumulated debris like leaves or dust. If the battery overheats sufficiently to ignite these surrounding materials, what begins as an electrical fault inside a small plastic casing can rapidly evolve into a house fire. Ignoring the recall means leaving this potential ignition source active in your home for an indefinite period. Every day you continue to use the device with the incorrect screws is a day that the risk of thermal runaway remains present. The remedy provided by Ring is straightforward and free, designed specifically to eliminate this hazard by providing the correct installation instructions and hardware. Choosing not to act on this recall leaves you vulnerable to preventable accidents that could have been avoided with a simple update and a quick check of your serial number.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall highlights a mechanical mismatch between screws and battery compartments, it serves as a valuable reminder that smart home security devices are essentially complex electronics living in the harsh outdoors. To keep your entire ecosystem of connected devices safe, you must prioritize proper installation above all else. Many consumers assume that because a device is "smart" or wireless, it requires no technical care. This is a dangerous misconception. Always read the manufacturer’s manual before mounting anything to your exterior walls. Look for specific torque requirements for screws and ensure you are using the correct anchors for your siding material, whether it is brick, wood, or vinyl. Using generic hardware store screws when the manufacturer specifies a particular length or thread type can lead to the exact overheating issues seen in this Ring recall, as improper fitment can cause short circuits or excessive resistance.
Beyond installation, regular maintenance of your device’s power source is critical for preventing fire hazards. If you have battery-powered devices like doorbells, cameras, or smoke detectors, check their charge levels and physical condition periodically. Look for any signs of swelling, discoloration, or leakage on the batteries themselves. A swollen battery is a clear warning sign that the internal chemistry has failed and could ignite if left in place. Replace old batteries promptly with high-quality, manufacturer-recommended replacements. Do not mix old and new batteries, and never attempt to recharge non-rechargeable alkaline cells. Keeping your devices clean also helps; dust and debris can accumulate in charging contacts or ventilation slots, potentially causing overheating during use or while charging.
Finally, stay proactive about product safety by signing up for recall notifications. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a database of recalls, but it is easy to miss updates if you are not actively looking. Consider creating a simple inventory of your major electronics, noting the purchase date and model numbers. This makes it much easier to check against recall lists if news breaks out. You can also subscribe to email alerts from the CPSC or set up Google Alerts for specific brands you trust. Being informed is your best defense against hazardous products. If you ever notice a strange smell, unusual heat, or erratic behavior from any electronic device in your home, unplug it immediately and contact the manufacturer before attempting further use. Safety is not just about reacting to recalls; it is about building habits that prevent accidents from happening in the first place.