How do you install a wireless doorbell system?

Wireless doorbell systems are very simple and easy to install. The most basic system comes with a battery operated transmitter for the door and a receiver for inside the house. The receiver, or sound maker,

will either be battery operated or will be equipped with a plug that fits into an outlet. The only work involved in installing the system is to insert the batteries and attach the transmitter on the wall outside your front door, which is usually achieved by screws, depending on the model. You can place the receiver anywhere in your home, although it may need to be located near an outlet if it is the plug-in variety. Since there are no wires to connect, the installation of wireless doorbells is much simpler and faster than traditional doorbell systems that involve a push button unit, transformer, and chime. Wireless doorbells work by transmitting a radio signal to the receiver when someone presses the button on the transmitter, while traditional doorbell systems work by interrupting a flow of current that sets off the chime unit.

The more complex systems may come with multiple transmitters intended for the different entrances to your home and with multiple receivers so that you can hear the doorbell signal throughout your home. This is one of the advantages of wireless doorbell systems over traditional doorbells whose chime unit must be located near the door and usually only have one volume level. With a wireless system you might place one receiver in the kitchen, one upstairs, and one in the garage or basement, ensuring that you will never miss a visitor.

Some receivers are even equipped with an optional flashing light so that you will notice the announcement of a visitor while you are watching television or if you are hearing impaired. You can also purchase wireless doorbell systems that include an intercom system that allows you to speak to the person on the other side of the door and even video systems that let you see who is behind the door before you open it. Wireless doorbell systems range from simple to high tech, and the price range also varies. A basic system can be as low as $12 to $15, while the video doorbells are available for $150 and more.

The variety of wireless doorbell systems is almost endless. For added home security there are wireless systems that detect movement or sound outside your door and alert you with a signal or flashing light. You can also choose systems that allow you to select from different chime or doorbell sounds. Many play songs that can be changed throughout the year according to the season or your mood. The fanciest models even let you record your own sound or song to be played when someone rings the doorbell.

Doorbell expert John Hartman worked for Nutone for 25 years and now works for R & I Enterprises as a sales manager, a company that distributes Broan and Nutone doorbells. He says you can purchase wireless doorbell systems at home improvement stores like Lowe's and Home Depot for an easy do-it-yourself project.