Removing A Vivint Doorbell Camera: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you want to remove a Vivint doorbell camera, you can either do it yourself or leave it for the next company's installers to do their job. To do it yourself, you will need a T5 screwdriver. Monitoring fees for Vivint start at $39.99, but there won't be any contract as you own the equipment.

How to remove a Vivint doorbell camera

Using a T5 screwdriver to remove the doorbell camera

To remove a Vivint doorbell camera, you'll need to use a T5 screwdriver. This is a type of screwdriver with a 6-pointed star-shaped head that's designed to fit perfectly into the screw head. The T5 Torx screwdriver is commonly used for specialty or security screws found in consumer electronics, cell phones, and tablets.

• Prepare the T5 screwdriver: Ensure that you have the correct size of T5 screwdriver. The size of the screwdriver must match the size of the screws on the doorbell camera. The T5 screwdriver should have a comfortable, non-skid handle and a magnetic tip to hold tiny screws conveniently.
• Locate the screws: Identify the screws holding the Vivint doorbell camera in place. They are typically located on the sides or back of the camera.
• Remove the screws: Using the T5 screwdriver, carefully insert the star-shaped tip into the screw head. Apply gentle force in a counterclockwise direction to loosen and remove each screw. Place the screws in a safe location to avoid misplacing them.
• Detach the camera: Once all the screws have been removed, gently pull the camera away from its mounting bracket or surface. Be careful not to damage any wires or cables connected to the camera.
• Handle the camera with care: Hold the camera securely and disconnect any remaining cables or wires. Some doorbell cameras may have additional mounting hardware or adhesive pads that need to be removed.
• Clean the area: After removing the camera, use a soft cloth to wipe away any dust or debris from the mounting surface. This ensures that the area is clean before installing a new doorbell camera or making other adjustments.

Remember to work carefully when using the T5 screwdriver to avoid stripping the screw heads or damaging the screwdriver. The correct size and type of screwdriver are essential for successful removal. Always handle the doorbell camera with care to avoid damage during the removal process.

Leaving the removal to the next company's installers

If you're looking to remove a Vivint doorbell camera, one option is to leave the task to the installers of your next security system. This approach can save you time and effort, and ensure that the removal is carried out safely and correctly. Here's what you need to know about leaving the removal to the next company's installers:

Firstly, it is important to understand that the Vivint Doorbell Camera is a sophisticated piece of technology that requires careful handling. It is connected to a power supply, typically has a mounting bracket, and may have additional screws or brackets for support. Therefore, leaving the removal to experienced installers ensures that the process is carried out efficiently and safely.

When the new company's installers arrive, they will typically begin by assessing the installation. They will examine the mounting bracket, the wiring, and any additional screws or brackets used to secure the camera. This initial assessment allows them to plan the removal process and gather the necessary tools.

The installers will then proceed to turn off the power supply to the doorbell camera. This is a crucial step to ensure safety and prevent any electrical mishaps during the removal process. They will locate the circuit breaker or fuse box and identify the specific circuit or fuse controlling the power to the doorbell camera. Once located, they will switch off the circuit breaker or remove the corresponding fuse.

With the power safely turned off, the installers will carefully remove the doorbell camera from its mounting bracket. They will use appropriate tools, such as screwdrivers, to loosen and remove the screws holding the camera in place. The camera will then be gently lifted away from the bracket, being cautious not to damage any wiring.

The next step is to disconnect the wiring. The installers will carefully strip the insulation from the wires using wire strippers and then unscrew or unplug the connectors. They will ensure that the wiring process is handled correctly to prevent any damage to the wires or surrounding areas.

Finally, the installers will remove any remaining screws or brackets that were used to secure the camera. They will carefully detach these components and leave the surface clean and ready for any new installations. If there are any holes or imperfections left behind, experienced installers will also be able to advise on the best way to patch them up and create a smooth, seamless finish.

By leaving the removal to the next company's installers, you can benefit from their expertise and experience in handling such equipment. They will ensure that the Vivint Doorbell Camera is safely removed and disposed of, and they can also provide guidance on the best practices for maintaining your new security system.

Cancelling the contract with Vivint

Cancelling a contract with Vivint can be a challenge, but it is possible. Here are the steps you need to take and some important considerations to keep in mind:

Steps to Cancel:

To initiate the cancellation process, you must contact Vivint's customer service department by calling +1-800-216-5232, ext. 5020. While some sources suggest that email or live chat options are also available, Vivint recommends using their cancellation customer service line. You will need to provide your Vivint service number and explain your reason for cancelling. It is important to note that you may be charged a cancellation fee, and you will likely need to pay off the remaining balance on your contract.

Special Circumstances for Penalty-Free Cancellation:

There are certain situations in which you may be able to cancel your Vivint contract without incurring any penalties. These include:

• Right of Rescission: You have three days from the date of installation to cancel your contract without penalty.
• Military Deployment: If you are an active-duty or reserve military member and are deployed for six months or more, you can cancel without penalty. This also applies if you receive PCS orders, are medically discharged, or retire for 20 or more years.
• Transition to Assisted Living: Moving to a nursing home or retirement home qualifies as an extenuating circumstance for cancellation.
• Bankruptcy: In cases of financial hardship, Vivint may allow you to cancel without penalty, but you will need to provide relevant documentation.
• Death: In the unfortunate event of the customer's death, their loved ones can cancel the contract without issue.

Transferring Your Contract:

If you are moving or no longer wish to continue with your Vivint contract, you have the option to transfer it to someone else. This requires finding a qualified candidate, such as a friend or family member, who is willing to take over the remaining balance and monitoring fees. There may also be a $99 transfer fee, and any financing must be paid off before the transfer can be completed.

Understanding Vivint's Contract Length:

Vivint's contracts typically range from 42 to 60 months, which is longer than the industry average of around 36 months. Keep in mind that you are only required to sign a contract if you choose to finance your equipment over time. If you pay for your equipment upfront, you can opt for a month-to-month monitoring plan without being locked into a long-term contract.

Integrating the Vivint doorbell camera with Apple

The Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro is a smart home device that can be integrated with Apple devices through the Vivint Smart Home App. The app is available for download on the Apple App Store and is compatible with iPhones and other Apple devices.

To integrate the Vivint Doorbell Camera with Apple, follow these steps:

• Download the Vivint Smart Home App: Visit the Apple App Store on your Apple device and search for the "Vivint Smart Home" app. Download and install the app on your device.
• Create a Vivint Account: Open the Vivint Smart Home App and create a new account by providing the required information, such as your name, email address, and a secure password.
• Connect the Vivint Doorbell Camera: Ensure that your Vivint Doorbell Camera is set up and installed correctly by a professional. Connect the camera to your home Wi-Fi network and link it to your Vivint account.
• Configure Notifications and Settings: Within the Vivint Smart Home App, customize your notifications and settings according to your preferences. You can enable or disable notifications for motion detection, package delivery, and visitor alerts.
• Access Live Feed and Recordings: The Vivint Smart Home App provides access to the live video feed from your doorbell camera. You can also view recorded clips and footage stored on the Vivint Smart Drive or the cloud.
• Control Smart Home Features: With the app, you can control various smart home features integrated with your Vivint Doorbell Camera. This includes smart locks, garage door automation, lighting controls, and more.
• Enable Two-Way Talk: The Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro supports two-way talk, allowing you to communicate with visitors directly from your Apple device. Enable this feature within the app to answer your door and speak to guests remotely.
• Customize Surveillance Zones: Utilize the customization options within the app to define specific surveillance zones for your Vivint Doorbell Camera. This helps to reduce false alarms triggered by pets, pedestrians, or irrelevant motions.
• Set Up Custom Actions: If you have other Vivint Security products, you can create Custom Actions to connect your doorbell camera with other devices. For example, you can set up a Custom Action to start recording and emit a chime when your home security alarm is triggered.
• Stay Updated with Notifications: The Vivint Smart Home App will send instant notifications to your Apple device whenever motion is detected, a package is delivered, or a visitor is at your door. You can customize these notifications according to your preferences.

By following these steps, you can effectively integrate your Vivint Doorbell Camera with your Apple devices using the Vivint Smart Home App. This integration provides remote access, control, and customization options for a seamless smart home experience.

Using the Vivint app to set up the camera

To set up your Vivint doorbell camera using the app, you will need to first download the Vivint Smart Home App. This will allow you to access the camera settings and configure it according to your preferences.

• Open the Vivint Smart Home App: Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and install it on your device.
• Create an Account: If you don't already have one, create a Vivint account by providing your details and setting up a password.
• Log in: Use your credentials to log in to the app.
• Add the Doorbell Camera: In the app, go to the "Camera Section" and follow the on-screen instructions to add your doorbell camera. You may need to provide the camera's serial number or QR code for identification.
• Connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure your camera is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. This will allow you to access the camera's live feed and receive notifications when motion is detected.
• Adjust Settings: Customize your camera settings according to your preferences. This includes motion detection sensitivity, notification preferences, and recording options. You can also set up specific zones you want the camera to monitor.
• Test the Camera: Once you have configured the settings, test the camera to ensure it is functioning properly. Try accessing the live feed, reviewing any recorded footage, and testing the motion detection to ensure notifications are triggered as expected.
• Fine-tune as Needed: After testing, make any necessary adjustments to ensure the camera works optimally for your needs.

Remember, for a detailed guide, you can refer to the official Vivint support page or video tutorials provided by the company. The process may vary slightly depending on your specific model and firmware version, so it is always best to refer to the most up-to-date instructions provided by Vivint.

Frequently asked questions