Rochester MN Home Inspector Explains How To Fix Broken Doorbell
That’s right, you need not be afraid of fixing your own doorbell if it is not working. All parts of a doorbell system are low voltage 12-24 volts. All of the wiring in a doorbell system will be low voltage, and this low voltage can’t really hurt you. You should not however attempt to replace or repair your transformer for the doorbell system. It converts the 110 volt supply to the 12 or 24 volts. Leave any transformer replacement to your local Rochester MN or Southeastern MN electrician.
Start with an inspection of your doorbell button. This is the most common source of problems, mostly because it is exposed to the elements. If the button is screwed to the your home, remove the screws, if it is recessed into a hole or flush with the trim, use a screw driver or putty knife to pry it loose.
You should now be able to see the low voltage wiring. If the wires are corroded or tightly attached, you have found the problem. You can use a metal screw driver to short between the wires, and the doorbell should ring. If this makes the chime ring, you can simply replace the button. If the chime doesn’t ring, the problem is in the chime or transformer.
Look at the chime assembly on the wall. Make sure that it is level and clean. Vacuum any dust or debris from the unit. The round plunger that strikes the chimes should move freely in the surrounding magnet.
If the doorbell doesn’t work after a complete inspection and cleaning the next step may be to contact an electrician.
You can purchase a new battery operated door chime for around $20. These units need no wires and are easy to install. All you have to do is make sure that the doorbell button is within 100 feet of the chime and you have a new doorbell.
Rick Erickson, Home Inspector, HomePro Home Inspections. Rochester MN, Southeastern, MN. 507-202-8942. http://www.homepro-inspection.com