Wireless doorbells are extremely popular because of their flexibility and the ease of use. They are extremely easy to install and use. However, at times, they can exhibit strange behavior, especially the low priced ones that have flooded the market now. No reason for you to break sweat yet. You can troubleshoot the wireless doorbell easily and restore it to its previous working condition. However, in some extreme cases, the entire unit might need replacement.

Symptom 1: The chime doesn’t sound

Step1: When the chime doesn’t sound, the first and most obvious thing to check in a wireless doorbell unit will be the batteries. Check the batteries in both the push button and the chime unit. Push buttons that have add on features like a flash light or a warm glow light can run out of juice very fast. Replace the batteries and check the unit again. If it works, then you can keep replacement batteries with you. You can also opt for a plug in unit as it saves you from the hassle of frequent battery replacements. If it still doesn’t ring, then it is time to move on to step 2.

Step 2: Most regular wireless doorbell models have a frequency limit or 75 to 150 feet. This range is ideal for small homes. However, if you live in a large home, then there are chances that you might have accidentally installed the receiver beyond the maximum allowed frequency range. The best way to find this is to shift the receiver to a place that is closer to the doorbell button. Does the chime unit sound now? If yes, then you can permanently mount the receiver at the new location. At times, you need to try different locations for your receiver in order to find the spot that gives you maximum signal strength and clarity. The angle at which the receiver is installed can also affect the signal quality. Have you heard about long range wireless doorbell systems for your home? These systems have a range of up to 300 feet or more. You can also buy an ‘add on’ amplifier or extender for your doorbell system. If the doorbell doesn’t ring despite moving the receiver around, then let’s move to step 3.

Step 3: If you have installed the receiver within the frequency limits specified by the manufacturer and the chime unit still doesn’t sound, then the button might be experiencing interference from metal surfaces. Yes, the presence of metal frames or grills often reduces the transmission range in doorbell buttons. If you have mounted the doorbell button on a metal surface or close to it, then you can use wooden shims to separate it from the surface.

Step 4: If you have sweated it out this far but have been unable to locate the problem, then you might need to replace the doorbell unit. At times, people install the doorbell unit outside the home in extreme weather conditions that can disrupt its working or damage it completely. Ensure that you buy only the best quality wireless doorbells that last long and offer quality performance.

Symptom 2: A doorbell that rings randomly

This is an extremely common symptom in wireless doorbells. It occurs because of interference from other frequencies. Garage door alarms, car clickers, other wireless doorbells or similar devices can trigger off wireless doorbells. Imagine running down all the way from your study, only to find that the doorbell was triggered by the vacuum cleaner. Isn’t that frustrating? However, the best way to address this problem is to buy a higher end model that supports multiple wireless frequencies. Some popular wireless doorbell models have up to 32 different built in frequencies that block most external frequencies and save you a lot of unwanted trouble.