Could your Ring doorbell catch fire?
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission just recalled more than 350,000 Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) units—model 5UM5E5—after at least 23 fires and eight burn injuries tied to wrong mounting screws that can puncture the battery.
If you bought one between June and October 2020, check the model and serial number on the back or box now.
This post tells you who’s affected, why the risk matters, and the immediate steps to verify or power down your device.
Immediate Actions and Official Guidance for the Ring Doorbell Recall Notice
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission just posted an official ring doorbell recall notice covering more than 350,000 Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) units sold in the U.S. and Canada. We’re talking about model number 5UM5E5, and the problem isn’t small. There’ve been at least 23 incidents where the doorbell actually ignited, causing property damage and eight reported burn injuries. The fire hazard happens when people use the wrong mounting screws during installation, which makes the battery overheat and catch fire.
The CPSC and the manufacturer want you to stop using the affected model right now. You need to check whether your unit’s included by looking at the serial number and model number on the back label or packaging. Compare it against Ring’s official recall verification page or the CPSC recall database. These units were sold from June 2020 through October 2020 at major retailers and online stores, and the fire risk stays active until you confirm safe installation or remove it completely.
If you own a Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen), here’s what to do:
Stop using the device. Disconnect it from power or pull the battery until you confirm it’s either not part of the recall or has been reinstalled correctly.
Find the model number and serial number printed on the label on the back of the doorbell or on the outer product box.
Enter the serial number on Ring’s support recall page or search the CPSC Recall Database for the official recall posting.
Don’t reinstall or reconnect anything until you’ve completed verification and followed updated installation instructions from Ring.
Contact Ring support directly if you’ve already experienced overheating, smoke, burning smells, or property damage.
Identifying Whether Your Ring Doorbell Model Is Included in the Recall
Only one model’s identified in this ring doorbell recall notice. The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation), model number 5UM5E5. The device has a distinctive blue ring on the front and was available in two finishes when it was sold: “satin nickel” (black and silver) and “venetian bronze” (black and bronze). Both hardwired and battery-powered versions of this model are included in the recall, since the hazard’s tied to incorrect screw installation rather than power source.
The recalled units shipped with a mounting bracket and a USB charging cable. The device includes two-way audio and night vision. To confirm whether your unit matches, check for the Ring logo on the lower front and verify the model number and serial number on the label stuck to the back of the doorbell and printed on the outer packaging. If the model reads 5UM5E5, cross-reference the serial number with the official recall list.
| Identifier | Description | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model Number 5UM5E5 | 2nd Generation Ring Video Doorbell; blue ring on front, satin nickel or venetian bronze finish | Only this model is included in the recall; other Ring models are not affected |
| Serial Number (S/N) | Printed on rear label and original packaging; unique identifier for each unit | Required to verify whether your specific device is part of the recalled lot via Ring or CPSC lookup tools |
| Sale Date (June–Oct 2020) | Purchase or delivery between June and October 2020 | Units outside this window are not part of this recall batch; proof of purchase may confirm eligibility |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Locate and Verify Your Ring Serial Number
The model number and serial number are printed on a label stuck to the back of the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) and also appear on the outer product packaging. To access the label on the device, you may need to temporarily unmount the doorbell from the wall or doorframe by gently lifting it off the mounting bracket.
Here’s how to locate and verify your serial number:
Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet, tap the affected device, and go to Device Settings or Device Health. Model and serial numbers are often displayed there for installed units.
If the device is mounted, carefully remove the doorbell from its mounting bracket by pressing the release tab or lifting the unit upward depending on the bracket design.
Inspect the back of the device for a printed or engraved label showing the model number and serial number.
If you no longer have physical access to the doorbell, locate the original retail box or packaging. The same model and serial information is printed on the outside.
Write down the full serial number exactly as it appears, including all letters and numbers without spaces.
Visit the Ring Support Recall Page and enter the serial number into the recall verification tool.
You can also search the CPSC Recall Database by entering “Ring Video Doorbell” and compare your serial number to the affected range listed in the official notice.
If the verification tool or CPSC posting confirms your unit is recalled, don’t reinstall or power on the device until you receive updated installation instructions and confirm safe mounting hardware.
Understanding the Fire Hazard: Overheating, Incorrect Screws, and Reported Incidents
The fire hazard identified in this ring doorbell recall notice occurs when incorrect mounting screws are used during installation. Screws that are too long or improperly positioned can puncture or compress the lithium-ion battery inside the device. This leads to short circuits, overheating, and in some cases, ignition. The CPSC has received at least 85 complaints related to the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen), including 23 reports of the unit catching fire and causing property damage to walls, siding, and nearby materials.
Eight consumers reported burn injuries ranging from minor to moderate. These typically occurred when they attempted to remove a smoking or hot doorbell. The agency confirmed that all reported fires and injuries were linked to installations that used screws not included in the original product packaging or installations where screws penetrated the battery compartment.
If your Ring doorbell is currently installed, watch for these warning signs:
The device feels unusually hot to the touch, especially near the battery compartment or mounting bracket.
You notice a burning smell, smoke, or visible scorch marks on the doorbell casing or mounting surface.
The doorbell stops responding, powers off unexpectedly, or displays unusual battery drain warnings in the Ring app.
You observe discoloration, melting, or warping of the plastic housing around the mounting screws.
If you detect any of these symptoms, disconnect power immediately if the unit is hardwired. Remove the battery if safe to do so, and move the device away from flammable materials. Don’t attempt to charge or reinstall the unit.
What To Do If Your Ring Doorbell Is Confirmed as Recalled
Once you verify that your serial number matches the recalled batch, stop using the doorbell immediately. The CPSC says the device presents a fire risk until proper installation is confirmed or the unit is uninstalled and set aside for remedy. Even if your doorbell’s been working without issue, the hazard remains if incorrect screws were used.
Ring has stated that correctly installed units using only the mounting screws included in the original packaging don’t require replacement or return. But if you’re uncertain whether the correct screws were used, or if the device was installed by a third party or previous owner, the safest course is to remove the unit and contact Ring support for guidance.
Here’s what to do if your unit is confirmed as recalled:
Power off the device. If hardwired, switch off the circuit breaker or transformer supplying power to the doorbell. If battery-powered, open the device and carefully remove the battery.
Unmount the doorbell by releasing it from the bracket and unscrewing the mounting plate from the wall or door frame.
Inspect the screws that were used. Compare them to any unused screws remaining in the original packaging. Incorrect screws are often longer or have a different thread pattern.
Place the removed doorbell, battery, and screws in a cool, dry location away from children, pets, and flammable materials. Don’t dispose of lithium-ion batteries in regular trash.
Visit the Ring Support Recall Page or call Ring customer support to report that you own a recalled unit and request updated installation instructions or remedy options.
Don’t reinstall the doorbell until you receive confirmation from Ring that you have the correct mounting hardware and installation procedure. Follow any revised instructions exactly as provided.
Remedy Options: Refunds, Replacements, and Updated Installation Instructions
The manufacturer hasn’t announced a universal refund or replacement program for all units in this recall. According to the official recall notice and Ring’s public statements, the remedy depends on whether the unit was installed with incorrect screws. Ring maintains that doorbells installed using only the screws supplied in the original product box don’t pose a fire hazard and don’t need to be returned.
For consumers who can’t confirm correct installation or who experienced overheating, smoke, or fire, Ring is providing revised installation instructions and may offer replacement mounting hardware. In some cases, the company may authorize a replacement unit or issue a refund, particularly if property damage or injury occurred. Proof of purchase and documentation of the incident are typically required for refund or replacement claims.
If you’re seeking a remedy, be prepared to provide this documentation when contacting Ring support or filing a claim:
The full serial number and model number of your recalled doorbell.
Receipt or proof of purchase showing the retailer, purchase date, and price paid.
Photos of the device, mounting screws, installation area, and any visible damage such as burn marks, melting, or scorching.
A written description of any incidents including dates, symptoms observed (heat, smoke, fire), injuries sustained, and property damage incurred.
Where and When Recalled Units Were Sold: Retailers, Sales Dates, and Distribution Channels
The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) units included in this recall were sold in the United States and Canada from June 2020 through October 2020. Distribution channels included major home improvement retailers, consumer electronics stores, and online marketplaces such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Home Depot, as well as direct sales through Ring’s website. Both the satin nickel and venetian bronze color options were sold during this window.
Approximately 350,000 units were sold during the affected period. If you purchased a Ring doorbell within this timeframe, check your order history and product packaging to confirm the model number and sale date. Consumers who received the device as a gift or purchased it secondhand should still verify the serial number, as the recall applies to all units in the affected batch regardless of current ownership.
To confirm whether your purchase falls within the recall window:
Log in to your account on the retailer’s website (Amazon, Best Buy, Home Depot, or Ring.com) and review order history for Ring Video Doorbell purchases between June and October 2020.
Check email confirmations or packing slips for the order date and product description. Confirm the model number listed matches 5UM5E5.
If you no longer have purchase records, locate the serial number on the device or packaging and verify it using the official recall tools. Purchase date confirmation isn’t required for recall eligibility, only serial number verification.
Official Resources for Verifying and Tracking Recall Claims
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Ring both maintain official pages where consumers can verify whether their unit’s included in the recall, access updated installation instructions, and track the status of remedy claims. These are the only authoritative sources for recall documentation and should be consulted before taking any action or making purchasing decisions based on unofficial reports.
Use these verified resources to confirm recall status and obtain updated guidance. The CPSC recall database provides the formal government notice, incident counts, and legal reporting requirements, while Ring’s support portal offers serial number verification and remedy request forms.
| Resource | Purpose | Link |
|---|---|---|
| CPSC Recall Database | Official government posting of the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) recall, including incident reports, affected serial ranges, and consumer rights | https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls |
| Ring Support Recall Page | Manufacturer-hosted serial number verification tool, updated installation instructions, and remedy claim submission forms | https://support.ring.com/ |
FAQs About the Ring Doorbell Recall Notice
Consumers frequently ask whether other Ring models are affected by this recall. The answer is no. Only the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation), model number 5UM5E5, is included in the official notice. Ring has confirmed that it hasn’t received complaints about fire hazards in other models, and no additional products have been added to the recall list.
Can I keep using my Ring doorbell if it’s installed correctly? Ring states that units installed with the original mounting screws included in the product packaging don’t pose a fire risk and don’t need to be removed. But if you’re unsure which screws were used or if a third party performed the installation, verify with Ring support before continuing use.
How do I safely uninstall a recalled Ring doorbell? First, power off the device by switching off the circuit breaker (hardwired units) or removing the battery (battery-powered units). Then release the doorbell from its mounting bracket and unscrew the mounting plate from the wall. Avoid forcing components or using excessive pressure near the battery compartment.
What should I do with stored video footage before returning the device? Log in to the Ring app, go to Event History or Recorded Events, and download any footage you wish to keep to your phone or cloud storage. Once the device is deregistered or returned, access to cloud-stored recordings may be lost.
Will I receive a replacement doorbell or a refund? The remedy depends on your situation. If the unit was installed with incorrect screws or if you experienced an incident, contact Ring support to discuss replacement or refund options. Correctly installed units typically don’t qualify for return.
How long will it take to process a recall claim? Processing times vary based on claim volume and documentation completeness. Ring may require photos, proof of purchase, and incident details before approving a remedy. Expect responses within 5 to 10 business days after submission.
Is it safe to dispose of a recalled Ring doorbell in the trash? No. Lithium-ion batteries must be recycled or disposed of at designated e-waste or battery recycling centers. Contact your local waste management authority or visit a retailer that accepts battery returns (Best Buy, Home Depot) for proper disposal.
Can I reinstall the doorbell after downloading new instructions? Yes, if Ring confirms your serial number is in the recalled batch and provides updated installation guidance. Follow the revised instructions exactly, using only the mounting hardware specified by Ring, and verify that no screws penetrate the battery compartment.
Final Words
In the action, this post ran through the Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen, model 5UM5E5) recall, the battery-overheating hazard tied to incorrect mounting screws, and the reported fires and burn injuries.
You got step-by-step checks for serial numbers, where to verify on Ring support and the CPSC, the immediate safety steps to stop using a suspect unit, and the likely remedy paths.
If you find a ring doorbell recall notice on your device, stop using it and follow the official verification and return steps — you should reach a safe resolution soon.
FAQ
Q: Which Ring doorbell was recalled and why would a Ring be recalled?
A: The Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen), model 5UM5E5, was recalled because incorrect mounting screws can puncture the battery, causing overheating, fire risk, and reported burn injuries.
Q: Why are people getting rid of Ring doorbells?
A: People are getting rid of Ring doorbells because privacy and account-hacking concerns, data-sharing worries, ongoing subscription costs, and safety recalls—like the battery-overheating recall—have eroded trust.
Q: Can you tell if someone is watching your Ring camera?
A: You can tell if someone is watching your Ring camera by checking Live View history, the Shared Users list, recent access logs or motion alerts in the app, and the device’s status light; secure your account and enable two-factor authentication.
