How to Fix a Doorbell: A Step-by-Step Guide

It can be pretty frustrating and inconvenient to have a doorbell that does not function. A faulty doorbell can cause you to miss out on important visitors or deliveries. The good thing, however, is that most of the issues with the doorbell are repairable through basic troubleshooting and repair. This guide will take you through several steps necessary for doorbell repair.

We will discuss common problems and required tools and offer easy DIY instructions in a step-by-step format on how to fix a doorbell yourself. With time and effort, your bell will be as if it were installed yesterday.

Why is My Doorbell Not Working?

There are a few common reasons why your doorbell doesn’t work:

• Power outage - If the power goes out, even briefly, it can cause your doorbell to stop working. Once power is restored, you may need to reset or reconnect the doorbell.
• Loose wires - Loose wires are the common cause of a doorbell stopping working. Over time, wires connecting the doorbell can come loose from the buttons, chime box, or transformer. This interrupts the flow of electricity and prevents the doorbell from ringing.
• Faulty transformer - A faulty one converts your home’s 120-volt AC into low-voltage AC to power the doorbell. If it’s faulty, the doorbell won’t get electricity.
• Broken chime box - The chime box amplifies the sound so you can hear the doorbell ring throughout your home. If it’s damaged, you won’t hear the ring.
• Stuck button - Gunk, dirt, or even insects can get lodged under the button, preventing it from moving and making contact when pushed.
• Fried circuit board - If the circuit board inside the doorbell itself is damaged from a power surge, it must be replaced for the doorbell to work.

How to Fix a Doorbell: 6 Easy Steps

Fixing a doorbell is a pretty straightforward process. Here are the steps for how to fix the doorbell:

1. Gather Necessary Tools

You’ll need a few basic tools, such as a screwdriver, needlenose pliers, a multimeter, and wire cutters/strippers. Moreover, for replacing buttons or the chime box, you may also need a chisel, hammer, and caulking/sealant. Now, let’s look at how to fix a broken doorbell.

2. Inspect for Loose Wires

Shut off power to the doorbell in your home’s breaker box. Remove the doorbell assembly and chime box from the wall and inspect the wires. Look for any that are loose, disconnected, corroded, or damaged.

3. Check the Transformer

Use a multimeter to test the transformer. It should output between 12 to 24 volts. If not, you’ll you’ll need to replace it.

4. Test the Chime Box

Reconnect the wires and restore power. Push the doorbell button and listen for the chime. If the chime box is quiet, faulty, or buzzing, it needs replacing.

5. Clean and Reseat the Button

Remove dirt, debris, or insects around the button and contact points. Carefully reseat the button assembly flush to the wall.

6. Replace Batteries

If you have a wireless, battery-powered doorbell, try replacing old batteries before troubleshooting other components.

7. Attempt a Reset

For digital, smart doorbells, consult manufacturer instructions for resetting the device. This may get things working again after a power outage.

How to Fix a Doorbell That Doesn’t Ring

If your doorbell button is getting power but doesn’t make any sound when pushed, there are a few parts to check. Here are some steps for how to fix a doorbell that does not ring:

1. First, ensure the doorbell button assembly is correctly wired and connects well. Loose wire nuts or corroded wires can prevent contact.
2. Test if the chime box is at fault. Disconnect it and touch the two chime wires together. Have someone push the button while you listen for a buzzing sound. If buzzing occurs, the box is likely broken. Replace it with a new chime box.
3. Try replacing the button itself. Over time, internal components wear out or get knocked loose, causing the doorbell not to ring. Installing a brand new button is inexpensive and often solves the problem.
4. The issue may be with the transformer if the button still doesn’t ring. Use a multimeter to check the voltage. Replace the faulty transformer if it’s lower than 12-24 volts.
5. Finally, inspect the button housing for cracked solder or loose connections. Refasten wires or make solder repairs as needed.

How to Fix Doorbell Chime Box

The chime box amplifies your doorbell’s sound so you can hear it ring throughout your home. If the doorbell chime is not working, here’s how to fix a doorbell chime:

1. Start by shutting off the power to the doorbell. Open the chime box housing and inspect for any loose wire connections. Resecure any wires that have come detached from terminals.
2. Test the transformer’s output voltage using a multimeter. If the reading is too low, replace the transformer.
3. Examine the chime bar inside the box. If it’s broken or missing, install a replacement bar that matches the rest of the unit.
4. Look for signs of corrosion, dirt buildup, or burnt wiring. Clean any corrosion and replace damaged wires.
5. Remove the chime box from the wall and gently straighten any bent or loose prongs that connect to the wires.
6. Reinstall the box and restore power once everything is clean and properly connected. Listen for the familiar “ding-dong” sound when the doorbell button is pushed.
7. If the chime still doesn’t work, you must replace the entire chime box with a new unit compatible with your doorbell system.

Bonus: High-Quality Video Doorbell Recommendation

If you’re ready to upgrade beyond a basic doorbell, consider installing a video doorbell for added security and convenience. One top choice is the Reolink Video Doorbell WiFi. This smart doorbell captures crystal-clear 2K+ video with a 5MP camera. It’s easy to install over your existing wired doorbell and connects to your 2.4 or 5GHz WiFi for wireless streaming.

The Reolink app sends instant alerts to your phone when the doorbell detects a visitor. The camera’s wide field of view lets you see your porch and yard in high definition. The doorbell features AI person detection to reduce unwanted alerts from cars or animals. Night vision ensures visibility even in low light.

FAQs

Why has my doorbell stopped working?

The most common reasons doorbells stop working are loose wiring connections, power outages causing electrical faults, worn-out mechanical parts like springs or gears, old batteries needing replacement in wireless models, or broken chime boxes.

Can I fix my doorbell myself?

You can troubleshoot and fix a doorbell using basic tools and replacement parts. Simple repairs include checking wires, cleaning contacts, replacing batteries, installing a new button, or wiring a new chime. More complex issues like a broken transformer may require hiring an electrician.

Do I need an electrician to replace a doorbell?

If the doorbell wiring is intact and you’re simply replacing the button, chime, or transformer with a similar model, a handy homeowner can usually handle the job safely. However, if there are no wires, the wiring needs to be replaced, or you don’t feel comfortable working with electrical systems, it’s best to call an electrician.

Conclusion

Fix the doorbell by diagnosing complications to save time and money. Often, tightening wires or cleaning dirt from buttons is enough; sometimes, a part needs replacement because it is worn out.

With common tools and a few new components, one can back up their working wired/wireless doorbell in no time. As always, when dealing with electrical work, take precautions for safety first! Follow this guide’s steps to fewer missed visitors and never miss another chime!