Installing a Doorbell

The first step is to purchase the right unit for your home. Be sure to consider how far the sound needs to travel. Some of the best new wireless doorbell units use repeating soft chimes throughout the home and is a convenient alternative to the single deafening gong of a major installation.

 Although doorbells operate on a low voltage system a poor installation can result in electrical shock or fire if you don’t provide adequate safeguards. Be sure and place the transformer and wiring out of harm’s way. It is also imperative that you cut the power to the electrical circuit during installation, even when dealing with the low voltage contacts that operate the chime itself.

Some newer doorbells combine transformers with the chime assembly. It’s not unusual to find a more traditional setup that requires separation where the transformer is next to the main electrical panel. After making sure you have the proper transformer for your doorbell (voltages can vary from 6-20 volts), simply find a junction box through which you can run the current. Because transformers convert 120V to 20V or less, it’s essential that you connect the contacts properly to avoid a hazardous condition.

Most transformers have two wires – one black, one white – that draw power at 110V from your home’s primary power source. On the other side are screws for the current at the desired lower voltage for the bell system. Connecting the doorbell circuit to these screws is straight forward; you only need to use standard bell wire to complete the circuit, and electrical insulated staples to ensure they stay in contact.

Mounting the bell button requires a screwdriver and some rudimentary knowledge about running wires. When the button is depressed it completes a circuit that sends power to the chimes to producing the sound. Wiring the button assembly requires a hole in the wall so the wire can be attached to the button. Lead one wire from your transformer through the hole and attach it to the terminal screw on the button. The second wire leads to one of the terminals on the chime, which will then complete the circuit to the transformer. If you’re installing two buttons for separate doors, a second circuit must be created off the chime assembly to the second button.

Hooking up the chime is easy. Insure that it is leveled on the wall and in a location that can be heard throughout the house. Route the wires from both buttons to the chime assembly. Connect the wires to the first terminal screw. The second terminal screw is run back to the transformer with the same bell wire.

Wireless doorbell installations require no electrical work such as a transformer and running of bell wire which making them simple and fast to install. Most operate like an intercom system, using battery power and a radio signal to sound the chime. Because they aren’t wired into your home they require regular battery checks to ensure operation.