Installing a new doorbell is a relatively easy home improvement project that can enhance your home’s curb appeal and make life more convenient. With some basic tools and a little bit of know-how, you can have a brand new, fully functional doorbell up and running in no time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire doorbell installation process, from selecting the right type of doorbell to wiring it properly for flawless operation. Follow along as we cover how to install and wire a wireless doorbell and a hardwired doorbell kit, as well as troubleshoot any potential issues along the way. With our step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, you’ll gain the skills and confidence for DIY doorbell installation success.
Choosing the Right Doorbell
The first step in any doorbell installation project is selecting the right type of doorbell for your needs. There are two main options:
Wireless Doorbells
Wireless doorbells are very easy to install as they do not require any wiring. The doorbell button is battery powered and wirelessly transmits a signal to the chime unit inside the home, which produces the doorbell sound. Choose a wireless doorbell if you want hassle-free installation without having to deal with wires. Just keep in mind the button batteries will need occasional replacement.
Hardwired Doorbells
Hardwired doorbell systems have the button and chime unit connected via low-voltage wires. This provides reliable performance but requires wiring work. Hardwired kits are available or you can purchase the button and chime separately. Hardwired doorbells tend to have a more premium, built-in look and feel compared to wireless options.
Within each category, you’ll also find different styles and features to suit your needs:
- Button style: Choose from round, rectangular, illuminated, or low-profile buttons. Outdoor mini-cam doorbells are also available.
- Chime style: Select a classic mechanical or modern digital chime sound. Buy a plug-in chime or hardwire it. Some offer volume control and melody options.
- Smart doorbells: Choose a video doorbell with WiFi connectivity, motion detection alerts, two-way audio, and mobile app access. Requires existing doorbell wires or battery power.
Take into account your home’s architectural style, location, budget and any special needs to select the ideal doorbell type for your situation.
Gather the Right Installation Supplies
To install your new doorbell properly, you’ll need to gather a few important supplies:
For Any Doorbell Installation:
- Safety glasses
- Tape measure
- Level
- Phillips screwdriver
- Drill with assorted drill bits
- Wire strippers
- Needlenose pliers
- Electrical tape
- Silicone sealant (for outdoor installation)
For Hardwired Installation:
- 16 or 18 gauge low-voltage wiring
- Wire nuts
- Voltage meter (optional)
For Wireless Installation:
- CR2032 button batteries
Make sure you have all the tools and materials on hand before getting started. Safety first when working with electrical systems.
Installation Steps for Wireless Doorbells
Installing a wireless doorbell system is quick and easy. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Select Locations for the Button and Chime
Decide where you want to position the doorbell button and the plug-in chime receiver inside the home. Most wireless doorbells come with adhesive mounting strips to securely attach the button and chime.
The button should be placed near your entryway door at a standard height of 48-60 inches from the ground for easy access. Make sure it does not obstruct the door swing.
The chime unit can be plugged into any interior electrical outlet and placed on a shelf, counter or mounted on the wall. Place it in a central location where the chimes will be audible throughout your home. Test the position by activating the button and walking around listening for the chime.
Step 2: Attach and Install the Button
Carefully remove the mounting bracket from the doorbell button housing if required. Position the bracket on the wall, use a level to ensure it is straight, and mark the screw holes.
Drill pilot holes in the marked spots, then secure the bracket using the provided screws. Make sure the screws are set into wood or use anchors if attaching to drywall or masonry.
Slide or snap the button housing onto the bracket following the manufacturer’s instructions. Insert the included CR2032 battery, observing proper polarity. If the doorbell button has any decorative trim, attach that next.
Pro Tip: Apply a silicone sealant around the outdoor button to prevent air and moisture intrusion.
Step 3: Install the Chime Receiver
Simply plug in the wireless chime unit to an interior wall outlet in the desired location, either horizontally or vertically oriented. In some cases, a mounting bracket, hardware and screws are included to permanently install the chime on the wall for a cleaner, built-in look. Use the same mounting method as the outdoor button.
Step 4: Sync and Test
Following the manufacturer’s syncing process, pair the wireless button to the chime receiver. Refer to the instruction manual for proper coding methods. A common way is pressing a sync or coding button on both units simultaneously.
Once paired, press the doorbell button and listen for the chime sound. Make any necessary volume adjustments and test from various locations. That completes wireless doorbell installation!
Installation Steps for Hardwired Doorbells
For hardwired installation, wiring and connections are required between the button and chime. Here are the step-by-step instructions for proper setup:
Step 1: Switch Off Power
Locate the electrical panel and flip the breaker switch controlling the doorbell wiring circuit to the OFF position. Use a non-contact voltage tester on the wires to be sure. This safety step avoids electric shock.
Step 2: Remove the Existing Doorbell (If Applicable)
If there is an old doorbell already installed that you are replacing, take this opportunity to remove it.
Carefully detach the button housing from the wall, traditionally mounted with two long screws. Pull the button assembly away from the wall.
Follow the low-voltage wires coming off the back of the button into the house and remove them from any terminal screws. You may need to access the chime unit to fully disconnect. Set the old doorbell aside to recycle or discard appropriately.
Step 3: Prepare and Install New Wires
Examine the existing doorbell wires protruding from the wall. If the insulation appears cracked or the wiring is outdated, it is recommended to run a new wire from the button location to the chime.
Use a 16 or 18 gauge two-conductor low-voltage wire. Keep wires as short and straight as possible for minimal voltage drop. Attach the wires to the screw terminals on the back of the new doorbell button following polarity guides (typically labeled Front, Trans, Push).
Thread the low-voltage wires through the center hole in the new button housing and out the back. Position the button on the wall and secure it using the included screws or mounting bracket hardware.
Step 4: Install the New Chime
On the interior end, pull the wiring through the wall via an existing access point near the electrical panel or carefully drill an access hole. Determine an optimal location to install or mount the new chime unit.
Attach the opposite ends of the wires to the low-voltage screw terminals on the back of the chime. Follow the polarity markings, matching with the doorbell button terminals. Install the chime on the wall with included mounting hardware if applicable.
Step 5: Complete the Wiring Connections
With the new exterior button and interior chime wired, you simply need to connect the transformer. The transformer converts 120-volt household power to low-voltage power, usually 16-24 VAC.
Attach the transformer input wires to the 120V terminals on the electrical panel or a receptacle box using pigtails. Then connect the low-voltage transformer output wires to the two wires running between the button and chime using wire nuts. Follow the voltage polarity.
Alternative: Some kits include a plug-in transformer that can insert directly into any interior outlet, avoiding the electrical panel.
Step 6: Restore Power and Test
With all wiring connections completed securely, flip the breaker switch back to ON restoring power. Press the doorbell button and listen for the correct chime sound. Check volume and make any tone adjustments needed through small dials or switches on the side of the chime unit. Test functionality from a few locations.
That completes a new hardwired doorbell installation!
Doorbell Wiring Diagrams
Refer to the wiring diagrams below for a visual representation of how everything connects in typical hardwired doorbell installations.
Two-Wire Setup
This uses a two-wire circuit between the button and chime. A plug-in or wired transformer is utilized to convert 120V to low voltage.
Four-Wire Setup
A four-wire circuit keeps the front and rear or transformer wires separate. No polarity mixing.
Follow your specific doorbell kit instructions for proper wiring methods.
Tips for Installing Outdoor Doorbell Buttons
When installing doorbell buttons outdoors, keep these additional tips in mind:
- Place the button in a covered location sheltered from rain and snow if possible.
- Seal all around the button housing with silicone caulk for water resistance.
- For masonry walls, use appropriate concrete anchors to mount the bracket.
- Avoid installing the button where it will get direct sun exposure which can damage and fade the finish.
- Consider an illuminated button for easy nighttime viewing.
Positioning the outdoor button strategically in an optimal spot improves performance and longevity.
Troubleshooting Doorbell Installation Issues
If your newly installed doorbell system is not operating correctly, try these troubleshooting tips to get it working properly:
No Sound When Button Pressed
- Check power connections and wiring polarity.
- Inspect wires for loose connections or damage.
- Test with voltage meter and rectify any shorts or breaks.
- Replace batteries if wireless doorbell.
- Adjust chime volume if too low.
- Test chime and transformer with volt meter for proper voltage.
Doorbell Chimes When Button Not Pressed
- Disconnect and reconnect wires to reset short circuit.
- Clean button contact points if stuck closed.
- Check for pinched or damaged wires.
- Ensure no bare wire connections are touching.
Doorbell Chiming is Faint or Intermittent
- Replace old or weak batteries in wireless buttons.
- Retest button and chime locations and move for better performance.
- Inspect wires for corrosion or insulation damage.
- Add wiring extensions if existing wires are too long.
- Upgrade to a higher voltage transformer if voltage drop is confirmed.
Carefully inspecting connections and wires will typically reveal the issue. Ruling out a system weakness or failure helps troubleshoot.
Maintaining Your Doorbell System
Follow these doorbell maintenance tips so your system functions reliably for many years:
- Keep doorbell button and chime free of dirt, cobwebs, and debris. Gently wipe with a clean cloth.
- Test the doorbell monthly and replace batteries as needed.
- For outdoor buttons, check the sealant and reapply if any gaps or cracks are visible.
- Verify wires are secure and corrosion free. Add electrical tape where needed.
- Assess the chime sound monthly and adjust the volume or tone as needed.
- Consider replacing or upgrading old low-quality doorbell components. Newer models have improved construction, features, and durability.
With periodic inspection and testing, you can keep your doorbell in tip-top shape! Proper installation coupled with ongoing maintenance will ensure your doorbell system provides convenience and security for your household.
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Doorbells
What gauge wire should be used for doorbell wiring?
16 or 18 gauge low-voltage wire is recommended for doorbells. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire. Thicker wire allows for lower voltage drop.
Where is the doorbell transformer typically located?
The plug-in or wired transformer is usually located near the chime box, electrical panel, or an outlet junction box. Look for a small electrical box with a transformer inside.
Do I need a special circuit for my wired doorbell?
No, a dedicated circuit is not required. Standard doorbell wiring can be spliced off any 120V household circuit at the main panel or outlet box. Use pigtails to connect.
How do I adjust the volume on my mechanical chime?
Inside the chime housing there is usually a small plunger or dial that increases or decreases the hammer force to change volume. Slide or turn the adjuster while testing until the desired loudness is achieved.
Why does my doorbell cut in and out?
Intermittent or distorted sounding chimes are usually due to aged wiring or a failing transformer. Check voltages and resistance in the circuit and replace any defective components.
My doorbell stopped working – what should I check first?
Verify the circuit breaker is on and transformer has power. Then check all system wiring connections. At the button, inspect the contacts and wires for damage. Replace batteries if wireless. Test components with a multimeter to isolate any defects.
What doorbell system is easiest to install?
Wireless doorbells are by far the simplest to install requiring only basic mounting of the button and plugging in the chime. No wiring work involved makes them ideal for DIYers.
Conclusion
Installing a new wired or wireless doorbell is an easy DIY home project. Following proper steps for selecting, preparing, installing, and testing guarantees everything is hooked up right for flawless performance and long term reliability.
Paying close attention to mounting locations, wire polarity, and voltage continuity avoids common mistakes. Take it slow, double check connections, and don’t skip safety precautions when dealing with electrical systems. With minimal tools and materials, you can have your new doorbell’s first ring announcing guests in no time.