How to Troubleshoot Your Doorbell

The button is one of three devices to check on a failed doorbell system.

Standard hard-wired (not wireless) doorbells are powered by a regular household electrical circuit that feeds a low-voltage transformer, typically located in an attic, basement, or crawlspace. The doorbell button and chime unit are connected to the transformer by thin low-voltage wires. Knowing how to troubleshoot your doorbell can mean the difference between repairing a simple problem and replacing your entire doorbell system.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Volt-Ohm Meter

Instructions

1. Check the power going to the system. A doorbell that is not working may just not be getting any power. Go to the circuit breaker box and see if the breaker to the doorbell has tripped. Reset the breaker if it has tripped, then test the doorbell.

2. If a tripped breaker was not the problem, inspect the wires at the push button. Unscrew the push button from the wall or door frame, and disconnect the two wires from the back of the button. Touch the bare ends of the two wires together. If the bell rings, the push button needs to be replaced.

3. Next, test the transformer unit. This requires a multimeter, or volt/ohm tester. Confirm that the low-voltage wires are properly connected to the screw terminals on the transformer. Set the range on the multimeter to 50v AC and check the voltage between the two terminals on the transformer. The reading should measure the same as the secondary reading indicated on the transformer, either 6 or 24 volts. If it doesn't, the transformer needs to be replaced.

4. Inspect the bell or chime mechanism. Have someone press in the push button while you stand next to the chime unit. If you hear a low hum, the chime unit may be clogged up with dirt. Remove the cover and clean the plungers that strike the chimes, using a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. Also make sure the low-voltage wires are securely attached to their screw terminals. If this does not solve the problem, replace the chime unit.

5. If the chime unit did not hum at all the problem is in the wiring itself. Examine all of the low-voltage wire for breaks and damage. Look for areas where staples are used. Sometimes when non-insulated staples are used they will ground out the wire. Although you can temporarily repair the damaged wire with electrical tape, you should replace any damaged wire.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a doorbell that will not stop ringing it is either because the push button is bad or there is a short in the wire. Remove the push button and disconnect the wires. If it stops ringing, replace the push button. If the ringing continues, check and replace the doorbell wire.

References

• "The Complete Guide to Home Repair"; Creative Publishing international; 2008

Resources

• Troubleshooting A Doorbell