If you need a new doorbell, or just want to make the ring you hear when company comes over more interesting, all you have to do is install a new doorbell. But, is it really that easy? And, how long will the new doorbell actually work if you're not an electrician?
You don't need an excessive amount of tools to do this job (which takes some of the fear away), and if you're simply replacing the doorbell as opposed to installing a brand new one, your job will be much simpler. Masking tape and a screw driver, along with your new chime unit are the basic instruments you'll need to complete this project.
Before you start, make sure that you've turned your existing doorbell off from the main service box. Then, remove the screws that mount the doorbell onto the wall and disconnect the wires from the button switch. To keep the wires from falling back into the wall space, tape them to the outside of the hole. Then install the wires onto the new switch terminals.
Then, to change the sound, remove the cover from the chime unit. Unscrew the chime unit from the wall, and tape these wires to the wall as well, to keep them from sliding back into the wall cavity. Then, install the new wires through the chime unit base.
Now you'll mount the new chime unit, using the screws and instructions that will most likely come with the piece. You may have to adjust the unit based on how your old unit was positioned, which may mean penciling your mark in, or even adding new holes. After your new chime unit is secure (check to make sure that people will be able to hear the chime when they ring the bell, and that they'll be able to ring the doorbell unit without it falling into their hands), you can attach the chime unit cover, turn the electricity back on, and enjoy your new doorbell!
If you don't have a previous doorbell unit, or if you live in a place where the doorbell doesn't work (and the landlord still hasn't replaced it), you can purchase battery-operated or electric doorbells. These can be fairly inexpensive, usually between $30-$80, and are easy to install as well.
And, if you don't want the standard 'ding-dong' to sound when your guests come over, you can purchase chime units that will play familiar tunes like Christmas carols, or a favorite family song, and you can even find chime units that will allow you to program your own favorite songs for your doorbell. You can also purchase wireless chime units that will detect motion without pressing a button. Doorbell buttons and chime units can be found at most hardware stores, or even department stores with a home improvement section. And, of course, if you don't find what you're looking for locally, you can always look through the varieties of doorbells that are available on the Internet, and place you order online.
