August Doorbell Cam Hard to Mount? Follow These Steps

Finding it Hard to Mount Your August Doorbell Cam?

Upgrading to an August Doorbell Cam is an exciting step towards a smarter, more secure home. However, the installation process can sometimes be more challenging than expected. You might be faced with doorbell wires that are too short, an uneven mounting surface like brick or shingles, or uncertainty about whether to use the included wedge. A correct installation is vital for the doorbell to function properly and provide a clear view of your doorstep.

This guide is here to help you overcome these common mounting hurdles. We'll provide clear, step-by-step solutions to ensure your August Doorbell Cam is mounted securely, wired correctly, and positioned for optimal performance.

Common August Doorbell Cam Mounting Challenges

Let's look at the specific issues that can make mounting your August doorbell difficult.

Short or Recessed Doorbell Wires

One of the most frequent problems is finding that the existing wires coming out of your wall are too short or stiff to easily connect to the terminals on the August mounting plate. Trying to attach them can be a fiddly and frustrating process.

Uneven Mounting Surfaces

Doorbells are often mounted on challenging surfaces like brick, rough stucco, or overlapping siding. This can prevent the mounting bracket from sitting flat, leading to an insecure installation and potentially allowing moisture to get behind the unit.

Confusion About Using the Angled Wedge

The box includes an angled mounting wedge, and it's not always clear when or how to use it. Installing it when it's not needed, or failing to use it when it is, can result in a poor camera viewing angle, missing activity at your door.

Difficulty Attaching the Doorbell to the Base

The August Doorbell Cam attaches to its mounting base with a specific sliding motion and is secured by a small screw at the bottom. If the base is warped even slightly from being screwed to an uneven surface, it can be very difficult to slide the doorbell unit on correctly.

A Step-by-Step Guide to a Perfect August Installation

Follow these steps to navigate the installation process and mount your doorbell camera correctly.

Step 1: Assess and Extend Your Wiring

Safety First: Before you begin, turn off the power to your doorbell at your home's circuit breaker.

1. Expose the Wires: Gently pull your existing doorbell wires out from the wall.
2. Assess the Length: If they are too short to work with comfortably, you'll need to extend them.
3. Use the Extenders: Your August kit includes wire extenders and connectors. Use these to add a few inches of length, ensuring the connections are secure. This will make attaching them to the new mounting plate much easier.

Step 2: Choose and Prepare Your Mounting Position

This step is crucial for a secure fit and the right viewing angle.

1. Decide on the Wedge: If your doorbell is on a wall perpendicular to your door (a side wall), you should use the angled wedge. This will point the camera towards the centre of your entryway.
2. Create a Flat Surface: If mounting on brick or rough stucco, you may need to apply a small amount of exterior caulk or sealant to create a level surface for the mounting plate to rest on. For siding, you might consider a "mounting block" from a hardware store.
3. Mark and Drill: Hold the mounting plate (or wedge) in position, ensure it's level, and mark your screw holes. Drill pilot holes as needed, using appropriate wall anchors for your wall type.

Step 3: Secure the Mounting Plate and Wires

1. Attach Wires: Loosen the two terminal screws on the mounting plate. Loop the extended wires around the screws and tighten them firmly. The order of the wires does not matter.
2. Tuck the Wires: Carefully push any excess wiring back into the hole in the wall.
3. Screw the Plate to the Wall: Secure the mounting plate (or wedge and plate) to the wall using the provided screws. Do not overtighten, as this can warp the plastic plate.

Step 4: Attach and Secure the Doorbell

1. Align and Slide: Align the top of the doorbell unit with the top of the mounting plate and slide it down until it sits flush. It should glide on smoothly if the base is not warped.
2. Insert the Security Screw: Insert the small security screw into the hole at the very bottom of the doorbell and tighten it. This locks the unit to the mounting plate.
3. Restore Power: Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker. The doorbell should now power up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the August Doorbell Cam require existing doorbell wiring?

Yes, the August Doorbell Cam is designed to be powered by existing, low-voltage doorbell wiring (typically 16-24V AC). It is not battery-powered and will not function without being connected to these wires and a compatible chime.

What is the wedge used for and do I need to install it?

The included wedge is an angled mounting plate. You should use it if your doorbell is on a side wall, to angle the camera towards your door and walkway. It helps to provide a better viewing angle and more accurate motion detection.

My existing doorbell wires are too short to reach the mount. What do I do?

If your existing wires are too short, you can use the included wire extenders and wire connectors. Securely twist the extenders onto the existing wires using the connectors to ensure a solid and safe electrical connection.

Why doesn't my internal doorbell chime ring anymore after installation?

After mounting, you must go into the August app settings and select your chime type (mechanical or digital). If you select the wrong one or skip this step, your internal doorbell chime will not ring when the button is pressed.