How to Replace a Doorbell Chime Box

A broken doorbell doesn't mean visitors have to wear their knuckles out on your door. An inexpensive replacement and a few minutes of your time will put you back in the push-button age.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Circuit Tester
• Screwdriver Sets

1. Turn off the power - at the circuit breaker box - to the portion of the house where the doorbell unit is located.

2. Remove the cover from the old unit. Covers usually snap into place or have a couple of screws holding them.

3. Use a simple circuit tester to make absolutely sure the power is off to the doorbell unit.

4. Disconnect the two wires that go to the doorbell button (these are small-gauge wires almost like telephone wire). Next unhook the power-supply wires - there will either be two wires (ungrounded - most likely a black wire and a white wire) or three wires (grounded - most likely a black, a white and a green wire).

5. Remove whatever screws mount the unit to the wall. Take the entire unit with you to your local hardware store, home improvement center or lumberyard.

6. Look over the selection of new models on display.

7. Decide if your unit is a more expensive model that you should try to repair.

8. Purchase a total replacement if it is a less-expensive model (repair parts can quickly exceed the cost of a new doorbell).

9. Pick a model that suits you, if you decide to replace. Make sure it also suits the wiring assembly provided by your residence (most follow the same simple wiring plan).

10. Replace the transformer or ringer motor if you aren't going to replace the whole unit - this will require a little further testing and disassembly. There is usually someone at the store who can help to test these different possible malfunctions with a voltage meter - and recommend suitable replacements.

11. Remount the new or repaired unit on the wall and hook up both the power supply and the doorbell button. Replace the cover and turn the power to the unit back on at the breaker box.

12. Test the doorbell.

Tips & Warnings

• It's the more expensive models (ones with computer chips, different tunes or multiple chimes) that are made with replaceable transformers or ringer motors.
• When working with electricity use extreme caution. Make sure the power is turned of where you are working. Leaving a sign on the breaker box warning others that there is work being done is a good idea. If you have doubts about your ability call in a professional electrician.