Ring Doorbell Not Detecting Motion “Fixed 2024”

Is your Ring Doorbell not detecting motion? worry not! we got you covered. this problem is faced by many Ring owners but after reading this guide and applying the proven troubleshooting steps that we have provided your problem will be solved 100%.
But before we proceed to the troubleshooting steps first know about some general reasons behind this which cause this problem.

Reasons Behind Ring Doorbell Not Detecting Motion:

• Configuration Issues: This includes disabled motion detection, incorrect sensitivity settings, or undefined motion zones in the Ring app.
• Connectivity Problems: A weak Wi-Fi signal can disrupt communication between your camera and the cloud.
• Camera Placement: Poor placement with obstructions, glares, or window reflections can hinder motion detection.
• Power Issues: Low battery (for wireless cameras) or loose power connection (for wired cameras) can affect functionality.
• Software Issues: Outdated firmware might cause glitches.
• Environmental Factors: Extreme weather or a dirty camera lens can obstruct clear vision.

Ring uses PIR sensors for nighttime heat detection and advanced motion detection with daytime video analysis to recognize objects and minimize false alarms, ensuring accurate motion detection around the clock. Now let’s fix your ring doorbell.

Fixing Ring Doorbell Not Detecting Motion

As a first step, we will perform some basic checks and then move on to more advanced troubleshooting:

1) Is Motion Actually Happening?

It’s a basic check but don’t take it easy to test your ring doorbell by doing actual movement in front of the camera and check if the notification is received.
You can also check the motion with the snapshot feature if you have a ring protect plan. you can turn on or off this feature and can also set your snapshot to different frequencies like 30 seconds, 1 minute, and 3 minutes. your image will take 1 or 2 min if your snapshot is set to 30 seconds.

If you want to change these settings follow these steps:

• Launch the Ring app and click on the (☰) lines in the top left of the Dashboard.
• Click devices and choose your ring camera from the list
• Select device settings and click snapshot capture
• Turn it on it if is off and select frequency to your preference
• Now from the ring app dashboard, you can check event history and can use the snapshot feature to check for any movements.

2) Ensure Live View is not open on another device

While troubleshooting Ring motion detection issues, consider if Live View is open on another device. An open Live View can prevent motion alerts and snapshots, especially if you share your Ring account.

3) Confirm motion alerts are enabled in the Ring app

In 90% of cases, the culprit is disabled motion alerts within the Ring app.

Here’s how to get your Ring camera alerting you again in no time:

1. Open the Ring App and Choose Your Camera: Launch the Ring app and select the specific camera you’re having trouble with.
2. Double-Check Motion Alerts: Look for the “Motion Alerts” setting on your camera’s home screen. Ensure it’s switched to the blue “on” position.
3. Verify Ring Alerts: Also double-check the “Ring Alerts” is also enabled (blue “on”). This ensures you receive general notifications from your Ring device.

4) Ring app Notifications

Make sure notifications are turned on for the Ring app

1. Double-Check Ring App Settings:

• Device Dashboard: Open the Ring app and navigate to your specific Ring device’s dashboard.
• Enable Alerts: Look for the “Motion Alerts” and “Ring Alerts” options. Ensure both toggles are switched to the blue “On” position to receive notifications for motion detection and doorbell presses, respectively.

2. Grant Notification Permissions on Your Device:

• Settings App: Head over to your smartphone’s settings menu (Settings for iPhone or Android Settings for Android devices).
• Find Notifications: Locate the “Notifications” section within your settings.
• Allow Ring Notifications: Search for the Ring app in the list of applications. Ensure notifications are enabled for the Ring app. This allows pop-up alerts and notification sounds on your device.

5) Verify your doorbell is online

A strong Wi-Fi connection is essential for your Ring Doorbell to function flawlessly. Here’s a simplified guide to check and optimize your signal:

1. Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength:

• Open the Ring app and go to your doorbell’s device dashboard.
• In Network, click “Device Health” and then “Signal Strength”.
• Green PIR indicates a strong signal, while gray, amber, or red signifies weakness.

2. Troubleshooting Weak Signal:

• Connected, But Weak? If your doorbell shows a weak connection but is online, consider:
  • Closer to the Router: Repositioning your doorbell closer to the router can improve signal strength.
  • Clear Obstructions: Remove any objects blocking the Wi-Fi signal between your router and doorbell.
  • Reduce Network Traffic: Disconnect unused devices from your Wi-Fi to free up bandwidth.
  • Switch Wi-Fi Band (if applicable): Some Ring models support switching between 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for optimal performance.

6) Motion Detection Settings:

max your motion detection sensitivity:

1. Open the Ring app and tap on your doorbell.
2. Look for “Motion Settings” and tap on it.
3. See the “Motion Sensitivity” slider. Maximize it by sliding it all the way to the right!

Bonus Tip: Double-check “Motion Zones” in the settings. Make sure it’s switched on for maximum coverage.

Pro-Tip: Even if it’s already on MAX, try adjusting the sensitivity back and forth sometimes. It can sometimes fix things up!

7) Turn off Motion Snooze

Motion Snooze is a temporary setting in the Ring app that allows you to pause motion alerts for a chosen period. This is perfect for situations where you know there will be constant movement, like during a party or while workers are coming and going.

How to Check for Motion Snooze:

1. Open the Ring app and tap on your doorbell icon.
2. Look for “Settings” or a gear icon and tap on it.
3. Navigate to “Motion Settings” or similar options related to motion detection.
4. Look for “Motion Snooze” or a similar label.

If Motion Snooze is:

• ON: Tap it to turn it OFF. This will immediately re-enable motion alerts.
• OFF: Great! Motion detection should be functioning normally.

Bonus Tip: Even if Motion Snooze is already off, consider toggling it on and off again. Sometimes, a simple reset can fix notification issues in the Ring app.

8) Boost Motion Frequency!

Is your Ring Doorbell missing some key moments? It might be set to a lower motion detection frequency, causing delays and missed alerts. Here’s how to crank it up to “Frequent” for constant monitoring:

1. Open the Ring App: Locate your Ring Doorbell on the app’s home screen.

2. Deep Dive into Motion Settings: Tap on your doorbell icon and navigate to “Settings” (or the gear icon). Look for “Motion Settings” or similar options related to motion detection.

3. Unleash “Frequent” Motion: Under “Motion Settings,” find “Advanced Settings” (or similar). You’ll see three options for motion frequency. Choose “Frequent” to ensure continuous motion detection without delays.

4. Save and Retest: Confirm your selection and save the new settings. Now, test your doorbell again (similar to how you usually trigger alerts) and see if it delivers instant motion notifications!

By setting the Motion Frequency to “Frequent,” your Ring Doorbell will be on high alert, capturing every movement around your entrance.

9) Expand Your Motion Zones!

Sometimes this problem is caused by motion zones. follow the below steps to expand your motion zones.

Step 1. Access Motion Zones: Open the Ring app and tap on your doorbell icon. Navigate to “Settings” (or the gear icon) and find “Motion Settings” or similar options related to motion detection.

Step 2. Maximize Your Zones: Look for “Camera Motion Zones” or “Edit Zones.” Ensure all existing zones are enabled and expanded to cover the desired areas. You can also delete and recreate zones for a fresh start.

Step 3. Prioritize Key Areas: Focus on driveways, pathways leading to your home, and your property line. Avoid including public sidewalks or streets to minimize unnecessary alerts.

Step 4. Cover Important Spots: Try to capture your front porch, lawn, and the immediate area in front of your doorbell, without venturing into your neighbor’s space.

Step 5. Enhance Clarity: Minimize obstructions by trimming tree branches or moving decorations to provide a clear view for your doorbell camera.

Step 6. Exclude False Triggers: Walls, hedges, and open sky can lead to false alerts. Consider excluding these areas from your motion zones.

Step 7. Refine 3D Motion Detection (For Pro 2 Users):

• Access “Motion Settings” and choose “Set up Zones” or “Bird’s Eye Zones.”
• Follow the app prompts to set up Bird’s Eye Zones.
• Accurately position your doorbell icon on the map and ensure the camera view aligns with its direction.
• Create custom zones using “Add Zone,” resizing and naming them for better organization. (Up to 3 zones allowed)
• Test your zones by walking around the perimeter and adjust the range as needed.

Remember: Weather, obstacles, Wi-Fi strength, and reflections can affect radar functionality in 3D Motion Detection.

Bonus Tip: If you’re still facing issues, try temporarily disabling Bird’s Eye Zones and see if motion detection improves.

10) Disable “People Only Mode”

What is People Only Mode?

This feature aims to reduce notifications for non-human movement, like wind gusts or passing cars. While helpful, it can sometimes block alerts for actual people too!

How to Disable People Only Mode (For Ring Protect Subscribers):

The exact location of this setting depends on your Ring doorbell model and software version. Generally, it’s found in either “Motion Settings” or “Smart Alerts.” Here’s a simplified search guide:

1. Open the Ring App and select your doorbell.
2. Look for “Motion Settings” or “Smart Alerts.”
3. Within those menus, search for a toggle or option labeled “People Only Mode.”

Disable and Test:

• Turn off “People Only Mode.”
• Trigger some motion near your doorbell (walk by, wave your hand, etc.).
• If you receive a motion alert, then “People Only Mode” is likely blocking other alerts. Keep it disabled for comprehensive coverage.

Remember: This feature is only available for Ring Protect subscribers.

11) App and Device Management:

Update the App and Firmware!

1. Update the Ring App (Essential for Security):

• Outdated apps can lead to compatibility issues and missed alerts. Open your phone’s app store and search for “Ring.”
• If an update is available, download and install it immediately. Keeping the app updated also helps safeguard your Ring Doorbell from potential security vulnerabilities.

2. Update the Ring Doorbell Firmware (Fixes Bugs and Improves Performance):

• While Ring typically updates firmware automatically, you can check for pending updates manually:
  • Open the Ring app and select your doorbell.
  • Tap on the “Device Health” tile.
  • Scroll down to “Device Details.”
  • Look for the “Firmware” label.
  • If it says “Up to Date,” you’re good to go! If it shows a number, an update is available and will be installed automatically during the next doorbell event (motion detection, doorbell ring, or live view access).
  • During the update process, the doorbell indicator lights will flash white.

By keeping both the Ring app and doorbell firmware up-to-date, you’ll ensure your doorbell functions optimally and sends timely alerts, keeping you informed about activity around your home.

12) Reboot and Reset

1. Reboot Your Ring Doorbell (Quick Fix for Most Glitches):

• There are three ways to reboot your Ring Doorbell:
  • Through the App: Open the Ring app, select your doorbell, tap “Device Health,” scroll down to “Reboot,” and confirm. The doorbell will restart, with indicator lights flashing blue during the process.
  • Battery Removal: Simply remove the batteries from your doorbell, wait a few seconds, and reinsert them. This can clear temporary glitches.
  • Power Cycle (Wired Models): If your doorbell is wired, momentarily turn off the circuit breaker controlling its power, then turn it back on.

2. Restart Your Phone (Sometimes the Simple Fix Works):

A quick phone restart can resolve minor glitches that might be preventing you from receiving alerts. Follow your phone’s instructions for a soft reset and see if motion alerts start coming through.

3. Factory Reset Your Ring Doorbell (Last Resort):

• If the above steps don’t work, consider a factory reset. This will erase all settings and require you to set up your doorbell again.
• Find the reset button location specific to your Ring Doorbell model (refer to Ring’s website for detailed instructions).
• Typically, you’ll need to remove the doorbell from the faceplate, press and hold the reset button for 15-30 seconds (until a white light stops flashing), and then set it up again in the Ring app.

By following these steps you will fix your ring doorbell not detecting motion issues. below are some additional but very tips for your ring doorbell detection also check them out to use your ring doorbell to its full potential.

Additional Tips:

Check “Do Not Disturb”

Is your Ring Doorbell eerily silent, even when there’s activity? Before diving deep into troubleshooting, there’s a simple culprit to check: “Do Not Disturb” mode on your phone.

How “Do Not Disturb” Silences Your Ring Doorbell:

When enabled, “Do Not Disturb” mutes all notifications, including Ring Doorbell alerts. This can be a quick fix if you accidentally turned it on.

Finding “Do Not Disturb”:

• Look for the moon icon in your phone’s notification bar or swipe down from the top of the screen to access the shortcut menu.
• If you don’t see the moon icon, search for “Do Not Disturb” in your phone settings menu. (On some Android devices, it’s called “Focus Mode.”)

Turning Off “Do Not Disturb”:

• Tap on the moon icon or the “Do Not Disturb” option to disable it.

Remember: Disabling “Do Not Disturb” means you’ll receive all notifications again, not just Ring Doorbell alerts. Adjust your phone settings as needed to manage notification preferences.

Optimize Mounting Angle:

• The mounting angle of your Ring Doorbell can significantly impact its ability to detect motion.
• If you have steps leading up to your entrance, try tilting the camera slightly downwards. This can be achieved by adding washers behind the mounting bracket screws or using the dedicated angle bracket (if available).

Avoid Obstructions and Reflections:

• Ring Doorbells use Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors to detect heat changes caused by movement. However, obstructions can hinder their effectiveness.
• Ensure your doorbell has a clear line of sight to your front yard. Avoid glass panes, hardware cloth, grilles, or other objects near the lens.
• Similarly, reposition the camera away from direct sunlight, reflective surfaces like windows or glass doors, and shiny objects (parked cars) in close proximity.
• Excessive reflections can confuse the PIR sensors and affect their ability to accurately detect motion.

By optimizing the mounting angle and minimizing obstructions or reflections, you can ensure your Ring Doorbell has a clear view and effectively detects motion in the desired areas.

Lens Cleaning:

A dirty camera lens can be the culprit behind blurry footage and missed motion alerts. Here’s how to keep your Ring Doorbell seeing clearly:

1. Grab a Ladder (For Safety):

Since your doorbell is mounted, you’ll likely need a ladder to reach it comfortably. Remember, safety first!

2. Microfiber Magic:

Use a soft, microfiber cloth to gently wipe away dust and dirt from the camera lens. These cloths are ideal for cleaning lenses without scratching the delicate surface.

3. Tackle Tough Grime:

For stubborn dirt or grime, dampen your microfiber cloth (not soaking wet) and wipe the lens gently. The moisture should help loosen stuck-on particles for easy removal.

4. Peel Off the Past (Optional):

Double-check that you’ve removed any protective film from the camera lens before starting to use your Ring Doorbell. This film can significantly hinder infrared performance.

By following these simple steps and keeping your Ring Doorbell’s lens clean, you’ll ensure it captures clear footage and detects motion effectively, keeping you informed about activity around your home.

Ring App Cache:

• Clear the App Cache: Over time, app caches can become overloaded, leading to performance issues. Clearing the cache can often resolve these problems. The specific steps to do this will vary depending on your phone’s operating system (Android or iOS). Refer to your phone’s user guide or search online for instructions on clearing the app cache for the Ring app.
• Force Close the App: After clearing the cache, completely close the Ring app. This ensures any lingering processes are shut down and the app restarts fresh.

Ring Support:

If the issue persists after following these steps, consider contacting Ring Support for further assistance.

FAQ’s

Conclusion

When your ring camera is not detecting motion try the above steps. these proven steps will definitely fix your ring camera it it will start working normally again. but if you still have an issue contact with ring customer support. but the problem of 99% Ring owners are fixed after applying the above steps which we have provided.

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