If you are experiencing some difficulty with how to install a doorbell without an existing doorbell here is a guide for you. We have provided this article to guide you even if you have not installed a doorbell before in your home.
Installing a new doorbell can be quite rigorous especially if you haven’t previously installed one at your doorstep. If you are a DIYer or if you have experience working with electricity you can learn how to install a doorbell without an existing doorbell and fix it yourself. But if you don’t have any prior technical experience, you can call a technician.
In this article, I will provide adequate steps that will guide you on how to install a doorbell without an existing doorbell if you have never installed a doorbell in your home.
How To Install A Doorbell Without Existing Doorbell
Here is a step to guide you on how to install a doorbell without an existing doorbell.
Recommended: How to Connect Ring Doorbell With Echo Show
Method 1:
This first method would guide you on how to install a doorbell without an existing doorbell. But this step works with a doorbell that uses a battery:
Step 1: Find a suitable spot
Look for an easy-to-spot location to place the doorbell switch, as it should be fixed in a visible position closer to the door. It should be easy to spot by visitors when they stand next to the front door.
For best practice, place the door switch around eye level and you should go for a weatherproof model of doorbell that can withstand harsh or tough weather conditions.
Step 2: Install the doorbell switch
After you’ve found a suitable location, next you should attach the switch with screws or adhesive. Most doorbell model comes with holes at the back for easy installation. You can use a screwdriver or an electric drill to mount the switch in your preferred location (it could either be on your door or wall).
You can also apply a strong adhesive binding glue to the back of the switch and place it firmly on the surface. Before you install the switch, ensure you clean the surface you want to attach it to before you install it.
Step 3: Find a location for the chime box
The chime box should be installed where everyone can hear the sound, preferably at the centre of your home. You can preferably install the chime box in your living room or dining centre. But you should ensure it is placed at a distance so that it can connect to the doorbell.
Step 4: Install the chime box
Now open the back panel and place the batteries in the chime box, then securely close the back panel. Make sure you pick a spot where you can audibly hear when it makes a sound. Now use a screwdriver to attach the chime box to the wall. You can have someone press the doorbell button outside to test how loud is the sound from each of the rooms.
Method 2:
This second method would guide you on how to install a hardwired doorbell even if you don’t have one before now.
Step 1: Turn off the power connection
Turn off the power entering the main building from the circuit breaker to avoid injuries and electric shock before you begin the installation. Check the circuit breaker panel or fuse box, then press the switch to its off position.
Step 2: Connect an electric wire to the chime box
Remove the cover on the chime box and wrap the electric wires around the correct terminals. Now tighten the screws meant to hold the wire into position.
If you experience difficulty with the wire installation, check inside the chime box for a small wiring diagram that is printed on it or check the installation manual.
Step 3: Install the chime box
Once you have attached the wires to the chime box correctly, now secure the chime box into position. Position your chime box on the spot you want to attach it to, then use your screwdriver to tighten the chime box to the wall or ceiling.
Step 4: Install doorbell
Choose a spot near the door where you can attach your doorbell switch. You have to drill a hole to run the electric wires that run from the back of the switch to the chime box and the transformer.
Now tighten the screws that hold the plate to the door or wall with an electric drill or screwdriver, until your doorbell switch snaps into position.
Step 5: Attach wires to the transformer
Attach the wires in a way that the wires from the chime box and doorbell are connected to the transformer. carefully attach the wires around the terminals of the transformer.
The function of the transformer is to convert the AC from the door switch to a voltage required to power the chime box. You can mount the transformer directly onto an electric box voltage wires enclosed.
Step 6: Use twist wire connectors to link wires
You can use plastic twist wire connectors to link the switch and chimes. Bring together the ends of both wires and place the cap onto the ends then twist until the wires are both firmly connected. The connection should create a signal between the doorbell button and the chime box, while the transformer should bring this connection to a safe voltage.
Step 7: Test the doorbell
Now restore power to the circuit breaker by sliding the switch to its on position. Press the doorbell switch to test the connection and check if the chime functions properly. But if the doorbell does not function, turn off the power and test the wire connection.
How to Install Ring Doorbell With Existing Doorbell
Since we have discussed how to install a doorbell without an existing doorbell in the steps above. We would now take a look at how to install a Ring doorbell with the existing doorbell.
Step 1: Remove the existing doorbell
Before you begin ensure you turn off power at the circuit breaker, then remove your existing doorbell button and disconnect the wires.
Step 2: Mount The Bracket
Place the mounting bracket at a level you can easily access the wires. Use the level to mount the bracket. Now drive the screws into the holes with a screwdriver. You can use the mounting bracket to mark holes if you are mounting on the wall. Now drill the holes and install the mounting bracket.
Step 3: Connect the Wires
Carefully connect the wires to the screws on the mounting bracket and make sure the wires don’t touch each other.
Step 4: Install the new doorbell
Use a little force to slot in the back of your doorbell in the mounting bracket. Now use the screwdriver to tighten the screws to the bottom of the Doorbell.
How do You Wire a Doorbell Without an Existing Doorbell?
Basically, there are two types of doorbells, hardwired and battery doorbells. Most modern houses use the battery doorbell, which is easier to install.
- Before you begin, turn off the power connection.
- Connect the electric wire to the chime box, then install the chime box.
- Install the doorbell switch. Choose a spot near the door where you can attach your doorbell switch.
- Connect wires to the transformer. Attach the wires in a way that the wires from the chime box and doorbell are connected to the transformer.
- Use plastic twist wire connectors to link wires to the doorbell switch and chimes.
- Restore power to the circuit breaker then test the doorbell connection.
Do you Need an Electrician to Install a Doorbell?
If you are a DIYer and you have technical knowledge of working with electricity. You can install a doorbell yourself without the need to call an electrician, to save yourself some money.
Can You Hook up a Ring if You Don’t Have a Doorbell?
You can hook up a Ring without an existing doorbell, by getting a Ring model that uses a battery. You can use the Ring Video or Ring Video 2 without an existing doorbell.