Ring Video Doorbell Recall Issued Over Fire Risks

Following reports of nearly two dozen instances where Ring Doorbells ignited, owners are being warned about a fire risk that may be associated with 350,000 of the second generation version of the video doorbells if the incorrect screws were used during installation.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a Ring Doorbell recall on November 10, indicating that owners should stop installing the device and contact the manufacturer for revised installation instructions.

The recall affects second generation Ring video doorbell cameras, which are designed with a two-way audio doorbell that can be hardwired or battery-powered and supports night vision. The devices are commonly used in residential and commercial spaces.

According to the recall notice, Ring LLC has become aware of situations where using the incorrect type of screw can compromise the wiring, causing the devices to over heat and combust.

To date, the manufacture has received at least 85 incident reports of incorrect doorbell screws installed, including at least 23 cases where the Ring doorbell ignited and fires resulted in property damage. Of the reported fires, eight involved burn injuries suffered by consumers.

The recall includes Ring Video Doorbells (2nd Generation) marked with model number 5UM5E5. The devices have a blue ring at the front and come in either satin nickel or venetian bronze colors and contain a mounting bracket and a USB charging cable. The Ring logo is printed on the bottom front of the doorbell and the model and serial number are printed on a label located on the back of the doorbell and the outer packaging.

The doorbells were manufactured in China and imported by Ring LLC, of Santa Monica, California. They were sold at electronics and home goods stores nationwide and online at Amazon.com and Ring.com from June 2020 through October 2020 for approximately $100.

An estimated 350,000 recalled units were distributed for sale throughout the United States and another 8,700 were distributed for sale in Canada.

The recall instructs consumers to stop installing the recalled video doorbell cameras immediately to mitigate the risk of additional fires and injuries. Consumers can check if their video doorbell is part of this recall through Ring’s website or app.

Customers may contact Ring customer service at 800-656-1918 and reference the recall number 21-028 for additional information and a copy of the revised installation instructions.