Foolproof ways to install a new bell
Whether you are expecting guests or unexpected visitors come to visit, you will feel like an unpleasant host if you do not answer the door because the doorbell does not ring. Do not let your reputation suffer when ringing the door is one of the easiest electric projects to do yourself (DIY)! In just a few steps, you will again be recognized as the most attentive host of the neighborhood.
New installation
I hereby declare that this is the DIY project for the complete and total non-handyman. The easiest way to install a doorbell when there is none is to buy one of the wireless models. Speak infallible!
To be a bit more technical, a wireless bell is actually a transmitter. When a visitor presses the button, a coded signal is sent to a receiver connected to the bell, which rings at the door.
Some of the benefits of wireless doorbells include:
If you have trouble hearing the bell ring (even if it works), you can buy more than one chime and tune it on the same button. In this way, you can place chimes all around the house to ring the bell wherever you are.
It does not require wires and no more electricity than a small battery. The button unit requires a battery, but most indoor chime units can be plugged into an electrical outlet, eliminating the need to change multiple batteries.
Although replacing the wired doorbell is a quick project under most DIY standards, it is even faster. In addition to the time spent choosing between the brass or gold finish, this project can be done during a commercial break.
Replacement installation
If you are in a hurry or if you are not interested in cables, simply replace your wired doorbell with one of the wireless models mentioned above. Remove the old doorbell switch with a flat screwdriver, tape the wires with insulation tape and put them back in the doorbell hole. Attach the new switch to the door frame, covering the hole. Inside, connect the chime units.
However, even replacing a wired doorbell with a new wired model usually does not take more than half an hour. The only materials needed are the new switch and a flat screwdriver. To make your life easier or show off your well-stocked tool kit, you can also choose to have wire strippers on hand.
Decide whether to turn off the device. Generally, this is not a question, but the main command of electrical work. However, as a doorbell is a low voltage device operating at 12 volts, you can perform this repair without turning off the power. If you do not feel comfortable leaving the unit on, or if you think your doorbell may be operating at a higher voltage, continue and turn off the system at the service panel.
Remove the old switch. Remove the screws and set them aside, as you can choose to reuse them. Unplug the wires by tying them so they can not slip into the hold and discard the old switch.
Cut and cut the wires, if necessary. If the ends of the termination are worn or frayed, remove the wire so that there is some slack and cut it to the same length. Strip about half an inch of insulation from each wire.
Connect the wires to the new switch. Connect the wires to the two screw terminals of the new switch. It does not matter which wire goes to which switch, it will work in both cases. Tighten the screws.
Install a new switch. Thread the wires through the hole and push the new switch so that it is flush with the wall or door frame. At this point, if the system is powered on, the new switch should work. If you bought and bought a model on, check if it is on. Test it and listen to the chime.
