Ring Video Doorbells and other smart home devices rely on stable power, Wi‑Fi, firmware, and clean low‑voltage wiring. When any of these pieces misbehave, your Ring app often shows cryptic F‑series error codes instead of a clear description of what went wrong.
This guide consolidates the most common Ring Video Doorbell F‑codes, along with a pair of related Nest thermostat power faults that frequently appear in the same homes. Use it as a quick reference to understand what each code generally indicates and to jump straight into detailed, step‑by‑step fixes.
Ring & Nest error code summary
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| F8 | Nest Thermostat power or wiring issue detected on the low‑voltage control circuit. |
| F12 | Nest Thermostat wiring or intermittent power fault affecting one or more HVAC connections. |
| F21 | Ring Video Doorbell internal fault during startup or setup, often tied to power or configuration problems. |
| F70 | Ring Video Doorbell general device error that prevents normal operation or completing updates. |
| F72 | Ring Video Doorbell fault indicating the unit cannot reliably stay powered or finish its boot process. |
| F73 | Ring Video Doorbell hardware or sensor error that interrupts recording or live view. |
| F76 | Ring Video Doorbell error related to inconsistent power, wiring, or internal checks during operation. |
| F78 | Ring Video Doorbell general fault that often surfaces after configuration changes or restarts. |
| F79 | Ring Video Doorbell device error that may involve power, wiring, or internal component issues. |
| F80 | Ring Video Doorbell startup or runtime fault requiring a systematic power and network check. |
| F81 | Ring Video Doorbell diagnostic code pointing to deeper power, wiring, or firmware problems. |
| F82 | Ring Video Doorbell generic error indicating the unit could not complete a normal operating cycle. |
| F83 | Ring Video Doorbell device‑level fault that may impact motion detection or live view. |
| F84 | Ring Video Doorbell internal error, commonly investigated via power, Wi‑Fi, and reset steps. |
| F85 | Ring Video Doorbell hardware or configuration issue stopping the device from working reliably. |
| F86 | Ring Video Doorbell fault code linked to power stability, wiring integrity, or firmware health. |
| F87 | Ring Video Doorbell generic malfunction that may require a full reinstall or factory reset. |
| F88 | Ring Video Doorbell error indicating the device cannot function normally without further troubleshooting. |
| F89 | Ring Video Doorbell fault that often calls for checking transformer, chime kit, and wiring. |
| F90 | Ring Video Doorbell system error that can appear after updates, power events, or major setting changes. |
| F91 | Ring Video Doorbell internal diagnostic code indicating a persistent operational problem. |
| F92 | Ring Video Doorbell device fault that may require coordinated checks of power, network, and firmware. |
Detailed error code guides
F8: Nest Thermostat F8 Fix: Power/Wiring Fault Quick Guide
The F8 error on a Nest Thermostat indicates that the device has detected a problem with the power it receives or with how its low‑voltage wires are connected. This can result in the thermostat shutting down, rebooting, or losing control of heating and cooling until the wiring or voltage issue is corrected.
F12: Nest Thermostat F12 Fix (Fast Wiring/Power Fault Guide)
The F12 code generally points to a wiring or intermittent power fault on one of the Nest Thermostat’s control circuits. It often appears after installation changes or when a marginal transformer cannot reliably power both the thermostat and connected equipment.
F21: Ring Video Doorbell F21 Error Code Fix
The F21 error is a Ring Video Doorbell internal fault that shows up when the device cannot complete a normal startup or setup sequence. It may be associated with inconsistent power from the transformer, configuration conflicts, or a problem encountered during initialization.
F70: Ring Video Doorbell F70 Error Code Fix Guide
F70 is a general Ring Video Doorbell device error indicating that something is preventing the unit from running as expected. Because the code is broad, troubleshooting focuses on confirming clean power, stable Wi‑Fi, and a healthy firmware state before considering hardware replacement.
F72: Ring Video Doorbell F72 Fix (Error Code Guide)
The F72 error means the doorbell is failing one of its internal checks during boot or normal operation. Issues such as brief power drops, wiring resistance, or corrupted settings can all contribute to this code appearing in the Ring app.
F73: Ring Video Doorbell F73 Error Code Fix
F73 is an internal Ring Video Doorbell hardware or sensor‑related warning that can interrupt motion events, recording, or live view. Resolving it usually involves verifying the doorbell’s power supply, confirming a stable network, and performing controlled resets or reinstalls.
F76: Ring Video Doorbell F76 Error Code Fix Guide
The F76 code signals that the Ring Video Doorbell has encountered a persistent problem during operation or immediately after powering up. It commonly points to borderline power, wiring concerns, or a software state that needs to be cleared with a structured reset process.
F78: Ring Video Doorbell F78 Error Code Guide (Real-World Fix)
F78 is a broad Ring Video Doorbell fault code that can appear following configuration changes, firmware updates, or interruptions during setup. The fix typically involves stepping through power verification, network checks, and a clean reinstall of the device in the Ring app.
F79: Ring Video Doorbell F79 Error Code Fix Guide
The F79 code indicates that the doorbell has detected a device‑level problem, often tied to marginal wiring, failing transformers, or internal circuitry that is not passing self‑tests. Addressing it requires ruling out power and wiring faults before considering hardware service.
F80: Ring Video Doorbell F80 Error Code Guide (Fast Fix)
F80 appears when the Ring Video Doorbell cannot complete a normal startup or maintain reliable operation. By systematically confirming transformer capacity, wiring connections, and network stability, most F80 cases can be resolved without replacing the device.
F81: Ring Video Doorbell F81 Fix (Real-World Technician Guide)
The F81 error is a deeper diagnostic code indicating that the doorbell is struggling with persistent power, firmware, or hardware issues. Technicians typically address it by validating voltage under load, performing firmware refreshes, and testing the doorbell on a known‑good circuit.
F82: Ring Video Doorbell F82 Error Code Fix
F82 tells you that the Ring Video Doorbell has hit an internal error condition that stops it from working normally. The recommended approach is to inspect wiring and transformers, ensure the latest firmware is installed, and then reset and re‑add the device if needed.
F83: Ring Video Doorbell F83 Error Code Fix Guide
The F83 error points to a device malfunction that may impact video streaming, notifications, or motion detection. Careful power testing, Wi‑Fi troubleshooting, and elimination of configuration conflicts usually narrow down the root cause.
F84: Ring Video Doorbell F84 Fix (No-Nonsense Guide)
F84 is a general internal fault code indicating that the Ring Video Doorbell is not meeting its normal operating conditions. Walking through power, wiring, network, and software reset steps in order is the most effective way to clear this error.
F85: Ring Video Doorbell F85 Error Code Fix
The F85 error suggests that the device is having ongoing difficulty maintaining stable operation, even if it occasionally appears online. It often requires more advanced checks of transformer sizing, wiring quality, and device firmware integrity.
F86: Ring Video Doorbell F86 Fix (Error Code Guide)
F86 represents a Ring Video Doorbell fault where the unit repeatedly fails internal checks or reboots unexpectedly. Troubleshooting focuses on confirming clean low‑voltage power, inspecting all terminations, and performing a controlled factory reset when appropriate.
F87: Ring Video Doorbell F87 Fix (Error Code Guide)
The F87 code is a persistent error that can indicate deeper issues with the doorbell’s power environment or internal components. Working through a structured sequence of transformer testing, network validation, and firmware refresh is key to resolving it.
F88: Ring Video Doorbell F88 Error Code Guide
F88 shows that the Ring Video Doorbell cannot maintain a healthy operating state and has flagged a generic malfunction. Systematic diagnostics of power, wiring, Wi‑Fi, and software configuration help isolate whether the problem is environmental or hardware‑related.
F89: Ring Video Doorbell F89 Fix (Error Code Guide)
The F89 error often appears when there are issues with the chime circuit, transformer output, or the way the doorbell is wired into the system. Validating voltage at the doorbell, at the transformer, and across any chime kit components is an essential part of fixing this code.
F90: Ring Video Doorbell F90 Error Code Fix
F90 is a Ring Video Doorbell system error that can follow power interruptions, major setting changes, or partially completed updates. Restoring stable power, rebooting network equipment, and re‑registering the device in the Ring app usually restores normal function.
F91: Ring Video Doorbell F91 Error Code Fix Guide
The F91 code indicates that the doorbell is encountering a recurring operational problem that simple restarts are not clearing. A more thorough review of wiring, transformer capacity, Wi‑Fi strength, and the device’s firmware state is necessary to eliminate this error.
F92: Ring Video Doorbell F92 Fix: Error Code Guide
F92 is a higher‑level Ring Video Doorbell fault that can point to complex interactions between power, network, and internal hardware. The detailed guide walks through step‑by‑step diagnostics so you can determine whether environmental fixes or a device replacement are required.
Preventive maintenance tips for Ring & Nest systems
- Confirm that your doorbell transformer and thermostat power supplies meet the manufacturer’s voltage and VA specifications, and avoid overloading a single transformer with too many devices.
- Inspect low‑voltage wiring annually for corrosion, loose terminations, paint overspray, or damage from staples and sharp bends, and re‑terminate any suspect connections.
- Keep your Wi‑Fi network stable by using strong passwords, minimizing interference near your router, and ensuring that outdoor devices have adequate signal strength.
- Update the Ring and Nest apps, as well as device firmware, whenever new versions are available to benefit from bug fixes and improved diagnostics.
- Protect doorbells and thermostats from direct water exposure and extreme temperatures, using compatible mounting accessories or weather protection where necessary.
- Document your wiring layout, transformer size, and breaker location so that any future troubleshooting or professional service can be completed quickly and accurately.