Here's How: Replace Old Doorbell for a Better Ring Sound

James Dulley on Nov 6, 2025

Replace Old Doorbell for a Better Ring Sound

Dear James: I can barely hear the doorbell ring, so I probably should get it fixed or buy a new one. Is replacing a doorbell a typical DIY project? -- Greg H.

Dear Greg: New doorbells are relatively inexpensive, so attempting to repair an old doorbell is probably not worth the effect. Installing a new one is a simple DIY project. Manufacturers even make wireless models that only need batteries installed before they are ready for your guests. Installing a wired model with a new transformer should take only an hour or two. Installing a wireless model is even quicker.

If you are not comfortable working with wires and electricity, wireless models are a good alternative. Even installing a new wired doorbell doesn't require special electrical skills. Doorbells wiring is low-voltage and uses transformers to convert house current to safe low-voltage current.

Since you are replacing a working doorbell, you don't need to be concerned with the transformer. However, if the doorbell does stop working, the transformer may need replacing. Definitely check your transformer if you are replacing a very old doorbell.

Today, doorbells are offered with many types of decorative chime units that have brass and hardwood trim. You can also get specialized sounds, from chimes to buzzers. Some doorbells can even play prerecorded soundtracks. No matter what type you decide on, the installation method is similar.

First, make sure the power to the doorbell system is turned off at the main panel. With a screwdriver, remove the doorbell button mounting screws. After you have the screws off, pull the button switch and the wires away from the wall. Once you have disconnected the wires from the switch, tape them to the wall so they can't slide back into the hole.

Next, you will need to connect the wires to the screw terminals of the new switch. At this point, it doesn't matter which terminal they are connected to. Once they are connected, take the tape off the wires, put them back down the wall and screw in the new button.

Find the old chime unit inside your house. You should know where it is since it has been sounding so strange lately. With the electric power still switched off, take the mounting screws off and tape the wires to the wall. This time, it is important to remove the wires one at a time.

You will have to label each wire's location on the screw terminal with a piece of tape. The terminal itself is most likely already labeled, so use this as your guide. After all the wires are labeled, thread them through the base of the new chime unit and mount it to the wall.

Connect each wire to its appropriate terminal on the new chime unit. All you have to do now is attach the cover to the chime unit and turn the power back on to the circuit. It is a good idea to test your new doorbell out a few times just to make sure you won't miss any visitors.

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Send your questions to Here's How, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45244 or visit www.dulley.com. To find out more about James Dulley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.