How to Set Up Your Ring Mailbox Sensor

What You Will Need

• Ring Mailbox Sensor
• Ring Alarm Base Station or Ring Bridge (already set up and online)
• Ring app (iOS or Android) with an active account
• A standard USPS-style mailbox with a hinged door

Understanding the Ring Mailbox Sensor

The Ring Mailbox Sensor attaches inside your mailbox and detects when the mailbox door is opened. It sends a notification to your Ring app so you know when mail has been delivered. The sensor connects to your Ring system and can be linked to Ring cameras, triggering them to record when mail activity is detected.

Step 1: Prepare the Sensor

1. Remove the Mailbox Sensor from its packaging. The kit includes the sensor unit, a mounting bracket, and adhesive strips.
2. Pull the battery tab to activate the pre-installed batteries.
3. The sensor's LED will flash, confirming it is powered on.

Step 2: Add the Sensor in the Ring App

1. Open the Ring app and tap Set Up a Device.
2. Select Mailbox Sensor from the device list.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair the sensor with your Ring system.
4. Name the sensor (e.g., "Mailbox") and assign it to a location.

Step 3: Install the Sensor in Your Mailbox

1. Open your mailbox door fully.
2. Clean the interior surface where you will mount the sensor with a dry cloth to ensure good adhesion.
3. Peel the backing from the adhesive strip and attach the mounting bracket to the inside top of the mailbox, near the door opening.
4. Snap the sensor unit onto the mounting bracket.
5. Position the sensor so that its detection zone faces the mailbox door. The sensor detects the door opening and closing using an internal accelerometer and light sensor.

Step 4: Install the Magnet on the Mailbox Door

1. Attach the included magnet piece to the inside of the mailbox door using the adhesive strip.
2. Position it so that the magnet aligns closely with the sensor when the door is closed.
3. Close the mailbox door and verify the sensor and magnet are within one inch of each other.

Step 5: Test the Sensor

1. Close the mailbox door and wait a moment for the sensor to register the closed state.
2. Open the mailbox door as your mail carrier would.
3. Check the Ring app for a mail delivery notification.
4. Close and open the door again to verify consistent detection.

Step 6: Link to Ring Cameras

For added security and package theft prevention, link the mailbox sensor to a nearby Ring camera:

1. In the Ring app, go to Devices and select your Mailbox Sensor.
2. Tap Linked Devices and select a nearby Ring camera (such as a Spotlight Cam or Stick Up Cam pointed at your mailbox area).
3. When the mailbox opens, the linked camera will automatically start recording.

Tips for Best Performance

• The Mailbox Sensor is designed for standard post-mounted mailboxes with a hinged door. It may not work with wall-mounted mail slots or locking cluster mailboxes.
• Battery life is approximately one year under normal use. Replace the batteries when the Ring app notifies you.
• The sensor is weather-resistant, but the inside of a mailbox provides additional protection from the elements.
• If your mailbox is far from your home, check the signal strength in the Ring app. You may need a Ring Alarm Range Extender or a Ring Bridge closer to the mailbox.
• The sensor can distinguish between brief door openings (like checking for mail) and extended openings, helping reduce false notifications.