Smart doorbells upgraded? Don’t toss the old one.
Video doorbells like Ring, Nest, Arlo, and others are small electronics — not household trash. They may look simple on the outside, but inside they contain batteries, circuit boards, and wireless components that qualify them as e-waste.
The problem is common. People upgrade their device, remove it from the wall, and either store it in a drawer “just in case” or throw it in the garbage without thinking twice.
EACR Inc. provides licensed electronics recycling for small smart home devices, including video doorbells and related accessories.
This guide explains how to recycle doorbells properly, including Ring doorbells, how to prepare them for disposal, and where to take them.
Why Doorbell Recycling Matters
E-Waste Classification
Video doorbells are electronic devices. Inside, you’ll find:
- Circuit boards
- Batteries (lithium-ion in many models)
- Wi-Fi components
- Plastic housing
- Copper wiring
That combination alone places them firmly in the electronic waste category. They should never go in regular household trash.
Data Security Risk
Smart doorbells are connected devices. That creates a second layer of concern: data.
Potential risks include:
- Stored video clips
- Cloud-linked device access
- Account removal requirements
If you don’t remove the device from your account before disposal, it can remain tied to your profile. Proper preparation protects your privacy.
Environmental Impact
It’s easy to overlook a doorbell because it’s small. But small devices add up quickly across neighborhoods and apartment complexes.
Recycling supports:
- Recovery of metals and internal components
- Reduction of battery fire risks in waste streams
- Diversion of electronics from landfills
Even compact smart home devices contain recoverable materials that should be routed properly.
What is Inside a Video Doorbell?
Understanding what’s inside makes it clear why proper recycling matters.
Internal Electronics
Most video doorbells contain:
- Printed circuit boards
- Microchips
- Wi-Fi modules
- Cameras and motion sensors
These components are similar to what you’d find in a smartphone or small computer.
Batteries
Many models — especially Ring and other wireless systems — use:
- Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
- Sealed battery packs
Lithium batteries are a known fire risk if damaged or improperly discarded.
Wiring & Mounting Hardware
Even hardwired doorbells contain:
- Copper wiring
- Steel mounting brackets
- Screws and anchors
These materials are recoverable when routed through proper recycling systems.
Plastic & Polymer Housing
The exterior casing typically includes:
- Weather-resistant plastic housing
- Internal insulation materials
These plastics are designed to withstand outdoor exposure but do not belong in landfill waste.
Ring Doorbell Recycling: What to Know
Upgrading your Ring device? Don’t skip the prep work. Recycling starts with protecting your data and routing the device properly.
Step 1: Prepare Your Device
Download Videos
Removing a device permanently deletes stored content.
- Download important clips before removal
- Save any footage you may need later
Once deleted from your account, videos cannot be recovered.
Remove Device from Your Account
Before recycling:
- Remove the device from your Ring account
- Confirm it is no longer linked in the app
This prevents unauthorized access and ensures your data privacy.
Step 2: Choose a Recycling Option
There are several responsible ways to recycle a Ring doorbell.
Amazon Recycling & Trade-In Programs
Amazon offers:
- Free electronics recycling
- Trade-in credits when eligible
- Refurbishment or responsible recycling through approved partners
This is a convenient route if your device qualifies.
Mail-in/Drop Offs
Electronics recycling companies such as EACR Inc. allow you to:
- Print a shipping label
- Package your device
- Drop it off at FedEx
- Bulk Drop offs at their facility
Mail-in recycling works well for single devices.
Electronics Retailers
Some retailers offer electronics recycling services, including:
- Best Buy electronics recycling
- Local electronics stores
Always confirm acceptance before visiting.
How to Recycle Other Doorbell Types
Not all doorbells are smart devices — but all require proper disposal.
Wired Mechanical Doorbells
Older systems may include:
- Metal chime boxes
- Transformer components
- Copper wiring
These components can be recycled through electronics or appropriate scrap channels.
Battery-Powered Doorbells
If the unit runs on replaceable batteries:
- Remove batteries first
- Recycle batteries separately through approved battery programs
Never leave loose batteries inside when disposing.
Smart Doorbells (All Brands)
This includes:
- Ring
- Google Nest
- Arlo
- Eufy
- Wyze
- Other Wi-Fi-enabled brands
All qualify as electronic waste and should not go in household trash.
Doorbell Recycling Options
1. Drop-Off at EACR Inc.
EACR Inc. is a licensed electronics recycler that accepts small smart devices.
Benefits include:
- Acceptance of small electronics
- Proper routing of lithium batteries and circuit boards
- Safe processing of smart home devices
This is a controlled, compliant disposal option.
2. Municipal E-Waste Programs
Many towns offer:
- E-waste collection events
- Designated electronics recycling days
- Small appliance and device drop-off
Always confirm that small smart devices are accepted.
3. Bulk Pickup (Property Managers & Businesses)
Bulk pickup is ideal for:
- Apartment complexes
- Property management companies
- Security system upgrades
- Commercial building retrofits
Benefits include:
- Centralized collection
- Documentation available upon request
- Controlled battery handling
This is especially useful during large-scale system upgrades.
Why You Should Never Throw a Doorbell in the Trash
Battery Fire Risk
Many video doorbells contain lithium-ion batteries.
Risks include:
- Puncture hazards
- Waste facility fires
Lithium batteries are a known fire source in waste streams.
Data Privacy Risk
Improper disposal can leave:
- Stored account access
- Unremoved device registration
Failing to remove the device from your account creates unnecessary security exposure.
Environmental Waste
Throwing a doorbell away means:
- Recoverable metals are lost
- Plastic and electronic components contaminate landfill streams
Small devices still contain materials that should be recovered responsibly.
Step-by-Step: How to Recycle a Doorbell
- Remove the device from its mounting bracket
- Download stored footage
- Remove the device from your app/account
- Remove the battery if possible
- Confirm an accepted recycling location
- Deliver to a licensed electronics recycler or schedule pickup
Simple steps prevent both environmental and data risks.
FAQs About Doorbell Recycling
Can you throw away a Ring doorbell?
No. Ring doorbells contain electronics and batteries and should not go in regular trash.
Are Ring doorbells considered e-waste?
Yes. They contain circuit boards, batteries, and wireless components.
How do I erase data before recycling?
Download your videos and remove the device from your account before disposal.
Can I trade in my Ring device?
Yes. Some Amazon trade-in programs offer credit when eligible.
Do video doorbells contain lithium batteries?
Many wireless models do, including several Ring devices.
Does EACR Inc. accept smart home devices?
Yes. EACR Inc. accepts small electronics, including smart home devices like video doorbells.
Is bulk pickup available for security upgrades?
Yes. Bulk pickup services are available for businesses and property managers replacing multiple units.
Environmental & Security Benefits of Recycling Doorbells
Recycling supports:
- Reduction of e-waste
- Prevention of battery-related fires
- Protection of personal data
- Recovery of metals and electronic components
- Diversion of small electronics from landfills
Responsible disposal protects both your information and the environment.
Conclusion
Doorbells are electronic devices, not trash.
Ring and other smart doorbells contain batteries, circuit boards, and stored data. Improper disposal creates both safety and privacy risks.
Responsible recycling protects your data, reduces fire hazards, and supports recovery of usable materials.
If you are upgrading or removing smart doorbells, contact EACR Inc. for licensed electronics recycling and smart device disposal services.
