It's time to upgrade to a new-and-improved system if your doorbell is failing to alert you that you have visitors or if you hear the same chime year after year.Replacing a doorbell can be done in a matter of minutes.Remove the old doorbell unit and fit the new one into place, then connect the wires to the wall.When someone presses the button, your home will be filled with the sounds of a job well done.
Step 1: You can turn off the electricity to the doorbell.
The doorbell is an electrical appliance.If the doorbell unit is on the circuit breaker, you can find a switch to turn it off.You can work safely if you stop the flow of electricity.Attempting to remove or modify your doorbell without first making sure that the electricity is off could result in a nasty shock.If you want to confirm that the power is off for safety's sake, you can press the doorbell.Current is still flowing to it if it rings.
Step 2: The doorbell needs to be removed.
The doorbell unit is located in the interior.When the doorbell button is pressed, the small speaker-like box emits sound.Remove the outer cover and set it aside.When enough pressure is applied, some covers will pop off if they aren't secured with screws.Close to the front entrance, most doorbell units are located in the hallway or foyer.If you don't know where your doorbell is, have someone press the button and listen for the sound.
Step 3: The doorbell unit needs to be disconnected.
There are 2 or 3 colored wires running to separate terminals in the center of the unit.Remove the screws holding the wires in place.If you pay close attention to the internal layout of the unit, you will remember how it needs to be configured.To remember what goes where, it is a good idea to mark the wires or terminals with the corresponding color.Take a picture with your phone if you don't want to go to all that trouble.If you have a separate doorbell for the back door, there will be an additional wire for it.A small current is directed from the button to the box unit when the doorbell is pressed.If the old doorbell wasn't working, use a battery tester or a meter to make sure the wires are intact before you install the new doorbell.If they're not, switch to a wireless doorbell.
Step 4: Don't let the doorbell go from the wall.
Remove the old unit from its base and move it around the wiring carefully.For a quick and easy switch-out, the new unit will go in the same spot.If you have a problem with the new doorbell, use your old doorbell as a backup and have it repaired.
Step 5: Place the doorbell into place.
Attach the unit to the wall and guide the wires through the slots.Make sure the edges and corners are straight.If the new doorbell is larger than the old one, adjust it until you are satisfied with the placement.You may have to drill new holes to attach a different model.Line up the edges of the new unit with a level.
Step 6: The doorbell needs to be secured.
Attach the screws by hand.Double check that the new holes are the right size to support the unit.Plastic anchors can be used to keep your walls from being damaged.Before you tighten the bottom corners, you should replace the screws in the upper corners.
Step 7: The wires need to be reconnected.
The wires should be run to the appropriate terminals.Before messing with them, match them up with their designated colors or labels.The doorbell won't work if that's not the case.The doorbell is in danger of shorting out if the wires are crossed up.
Step 8: Put the housing into place.
Press the cover on the new unit until it clicks.If the unit has separate screws, make sure they are fastened correctly.There is only one thing to it.
Step 9: The doorbell should be turned back on.
Go back to your home's circuit breaker and turn it on.Your doorbell will work once the electricity is restored.Don't handle the doorbell unit while the electricity is on.
Step 10: Press the doorbell button to open it.
You can call it a day if you hear it chime loud and clear.There may be an issue with the wiring if it doesn't make a noise.If the colored wires are running to the right terminals, then give it another try.To make sure it works, push the button a few times.A bad wire or transformer may be to blame for a malfunctioning doorbell.Call an electrician to take a closer look at your doorbell's power source and replace it if necessary.
Step 11: There is a doorbell button.
The doorbell may not work after you upgrade the inside unit.The easiest way to fix a dead doorbell button is to replace it with a new one.Next time you push it, it should work like a charm.Use a small strip of tape to keep the wires from falling into the door frame while you switch out the buttons.If bad wiring is to blame, it may be a good idea to use a multimeter to check the outgoing current.
Step 12: You can hear the doorbell from different parts of the house.
As you move around the house, have your helpers press the doorbell a few times.It is possible to confirm that it is audible from every room.If you have been using the same doorbell chime for years, it can take some getting used to.It is possible to install 2 different doorbells for the front and back doors of a big house.Each chime has a distinctive sound to let you know which door your visitors have arrived at.