If you have a Ring video doorbell, you may want to use a Solar Panel (2nd Generation) accessory to power your device. We recommend at least three to four hours of direct sunlight to power your device, depending on your usage.
Quick Tip
You won't be able to connect Ring Solar Panel to your existing mechanical or digital chime.
For questions about the Solar Panel (2nd Generation) and Small Solar Panel, read on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a Ring solar panel keep my device fully charged?
The device's battery level may vary based on the amount of direct sunlight the solar panel receives.
Learn more about device charging limitations in Optimized Battery Charging to Reduce Battery Aging.
How many hours of direct sunlight does a solar panel need for my device to stay charged?
For best performance, Ring recommends at least three to four hours of direct sunlight per day for Small Solar Panel, and at least two to three hours for Solar Panel (2nd Generation). With the recommended amount of direct sunlight, the device will remain continuously charged under most conditions.
Make sure there are no obstructions or objects that could cast a shadow on your solar panel, such as an extended roof, tree, or bush.
How can I install my solar panel to get the maximum sunlight and solar charge?
Seasonality and how far north (or south) you live can affect the strength of the sun. If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, install your solar panel facing south. If you live in the Southern Hemisphere, install it facing north. Ring recommends using the adjustable arm to angle the panel at about 45 degrees toward the sky to get the most sunlight possible.
It's a hot and sunny day. Why I don't see much charging from my solar panel?
To protect the lithium-ion battery in device, and for your safety, Ring Quick Release Battery Packs only allow solar to charge in the temperature range 32ºF~113ºF (0ºC~45ºC). Under direct sunlight on a very hot day, it may be too hot for the battery to allow charging.
My solar panel seemed to work fine all summer, but now that it's winter, it is not working as expected. What is going on?
Ring solar panels require direct sunlight. Filtered or indirect sunlight through the clouds will not provide a charge to your Ring devices. If the weather is cloudy or you get a lot of snow, this would limit the hours of direct sunlight your device is receiving, which would lessen the charge. Colder temperatures can also cause excessive drain to your lithium-ion battery.
My solar panel gets plenty of direct sunlight and my Ring app says my Ring device is charging, but my battery life is still shorter than expected. Is something wrong with my solar panel?
No. If your battery life is still relatively short even with the solar panel installed, your Ring device's daily activities and subsequent power drain is more than the solar panel can provide. If you receive a lot of motion events in a day, try adjusting your sensitivity to reduce unwanted motion.
Will solar power keep my Ring device charged during cloudy or seasonal weather?
Ring solar products require direct sunlight to stay charged and provide power to the device. If the weather is cloudy or it rains/snows, this would limit the direct sunlight your device receives, which would lessen the charge. Colder temperatures may also cause your device's lithium-ion battery to drain excessively. With prolonged cloudy or winter weather, you may need to manually recharge the battery more frequently. When sunny weather returns and the solar panel receives enough direct sunlight again, it will keep the device powered.
My solar panel's cable is too short to connect to a Ring device. What should I do?
Ring offers a 10ft USB-C Extension Cable as an accessory. Add an extra 10 feet of cable length to help your Ring USB-C Solar Panels and Security Cameras stay connected—up high, around a corner, wherever it can get the most sun.
Tap here to find out how to get the right accessories for your Ring doorbell or security camera.
My Ring app says my Ring device is "Not Connected" to solar. What should I do?
We suggest you update your Ring app to the latest version. Try plugging in the USB-C connector again. Press firmly to make sure the connector is fully plugged into your device.
To find out the latest app version that you need, read Downloading and Updating the Ring app.
