How to Replace a Doorbell Chime

From time to time, it can be fun or even necessary to replace your old doorbell chime with a brand new one. Fitting a new doorbell to your old door system is not that difficult, so long as you have the tools that you need to ensure that nothing goes wrong. Make sure that the doorbell chime you have chosen is one that you can listen to repeatedly, as you don't want to be replacing your chime next week, too.

Step 1 - Preparing the Doorbell Unit

Before you go ahead with your replacement of the doorbell unit, you will need to ensure that there is no power traveling to and from the chime. Turn the power off by either pulling out the live connection or removing the battery, depending upon what type of doorbell chime unit you have. The chime will only carry a small voltage, around 12 volts, so it should not do you any lasting damage. However, as with any other form of electrical device, you don't want to take the chance that something might go wrong. For that reason, it is best to have removed the power before you begin work on the chime.

Step 2 - Remove the Old Doorbell Chime

In order to take out the old doorbell chime, you will have to lift off the cover of the unit. This should snap off, but if you have any problems, you may find it more convenient to press against the bottom of the cover with a pair of pliers. By forcing the cover upwards, you should be able to snap off the lid. Once you are inside, use your screwdriver to remove any screws holding wires in place. Take note of the colored wires that go in each location, as you will need to use this when you fit the new version. Take the unit off the wall, and do any repaints that are necessary on the newly exposed door beneath.

Step 3 - Fit the New Doorbell Chime

Once you are ready, place the back cover of your new doorbell onto the door. Take the wires that will be fitted to the chime through the hole in the back, pulling them through individually using the pliers. Connect each of the wires to the connection screws on the inside of the doorbell chime, and make sure that they are fully tightened before you start to join the new doorbell onto the door. Once you are satisfied, put the new cover on and replace the power supply. Check that the doorbell is working correctly by testing it, and then await the arrival of your next visitors.