Q&A for How to Wire a Doorbell

Put the doorbells parallel to each other and the chimes parallel to each other.

This is a difficult question because there are so many different types, but generally, yes. The only problem I encountered was the transformer that supplied power from the bell to the unit that mounts near the door had to be replaced. The transformer at the bell, which also powers the switch by the door, wasn't generating the needed voltage. Even that wasn't too difficult to replace.

The line power to the doorbell unit is 120V AC. There is usually a transformer inside the bell assembly where the line power connects. The pair of lines running out of the transformer to the switch for the doorbell are usually 24V. Some instructions will tell you a wireless doorbell with video can run on 8V, but that's stricky. If the transformer isn't putting out at least 12 or 13 volts, it is going to cause intermittent problems. You spent over a hundred dollars for a video doorbell, the added time and expense for a new bell transformer is negligible.

Check the transformer output. A multi-meter for next to nothing from Harbor Freight and a step ladder are all you need. Check the wires going out to the doorbell from the transformer in the bell assembly.

Yes. You can buy a wireless doorbell system. Most of them have a receiver you put inside, so you can hear when the doorbell rings.

Make sure the power is shut off first. You might make the hole a little bigger so you can see the wire. Depending on the type of wire, you might try electromagnet with a skinny screwdriver, or a very rigid piece of wire with a hook on one end. There is also a tool that most computer stores sell; the end of the tool extends and opens up, and when it retracts it grabs things.

A doorbell transformer is usually designed to attach to the top or side of an electrical junction box, although there are also some that have a plug and cord set that you insert into a nearby receptacle.

The method for wiring a second doorbell would usually involve simply extending two wires from the new doorbell to the two terminals on the first doorbell, if you want them both to ring at the same time.

Yes, it does matter how you connect them because 1 wire directs power from the transformer to the doorbell button and the other connects the button to the chimes. Check the wires on your chimes and look for the one connected to the terminal labeled "Front." Whatever color that wire is, connect it to the bottom terminal on your doorbell button. The other wire goes to your transformer and can be connected to the upper terminal.

It could be a ground wire or an additional wire to direct the flow of power from the doorbell transformer to your doorbell chimes through your doorbell button. You only need to connect the main 2 wires that connect to your doorbell button. Any internal wiring in the button itself should be left intact because it likely helps the button function.

Generally, doorbells have 2 wires connected to them. You can connect them by finding out which wires go to your transformer and which go to your doorbell chimes. Look for the chimes on the wall in your living room or near your front door. On the chimes, look for the wire connected to the terminal labeled "Front." Whatever color that wire is, that's the one that needs to be connected to the bottom terminal of your doorbell button. The other wire is your transformer wire and should be connected to the upper terminal of your doorbell button.