How to Install a Doorbell Without an Existing Doorbell

The easiest route to take when installing a doorbell yourself is to install a wireless, battery-operated model that doesn't need to be connected to a transformer. But it's still possible and even doable to install a doorbell with a transformer.

We've put together a tutorial that should help you get started if you want to install a doorbell in your home--even if you don't have one installed.

Do you need an electrician to install a doorbell?

Installing a doorbell may seem like something only an electrician can do, but it's actually a project anyone can undertake. In fact, it's easier than you might think and only takes a couple of hours to complete.

The same thing can be said about any repairs your doorbell may need over the years: You can hire someone to fix it, but it's also a doable do-it-yourself project! Most of the components needed to fix your doorbell are low voltage and easily found at a hardware or home improvement store.

How to install a doorbell without an existing doorbell?

You have options if your home doesn't have a doorbell currently installed:

• Purchase a wire-free, battery-operated doorbell. (This is what we recommend for the easiest, fastest solution. )
• Install a wired doorbell with a power adapter that connects to an outlet.

How to install a battery-operated doorbell?

A wire-free, battery-operated doorbell is the easiest solution if you want to install a doorbell, but you don't want to deal with all the wires that come with the traditional model.

How to install a smart video doorbell?

Many video doorbells these days run off batteries and are easy to self-install if you have a little time on your hands.

It's important to note that if you want to install a video doorbell, you'll likely still need to wire the video into a power adapter. This regulates the transformer and ensures that it works properly.

• Make sure the video doorbell is charged before installation.
• Download the app that corresponds with your smart doorbell.
• Mount the doorbell camera using the provided mounting bracket and hardware.
• Turn on the doorbell and follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to add your doorbell to the Wi-Fi Protected Set-up (WPS).
• Once your doorbell is enrolled in WPS, you should be able to name your device, select your desired bandwidth and chime type.
• Verify signal connectivity and strength.

How to mount a new doorbell?

You'll want to be careful when first mounting your doorbell since you won't have a placement guide from a previous doorbell. We suggest mounting your doorbell around chest height, with a leveling device for the cleanest mounted experience.

• Once you've decided where to put your doorbell, it's a good idea to mark the position for the mounting holes with a pencil.
• If your doorbell requires wiring, you should consider hiring a professional to drill those holes and wire the doorbell, especially if you don't have wiring knowledge. These wires will connect to your transformer.
• Carefully drill mounting holes into your wall where you've added the marks.

Pro-Tip: You'll want to use screws for wood or vinyl siding and plastic anchors for brick, concrete or stucco.

• Secure mounting bracket to the wall.
• Place the doorbell onto the mounting bracket, then use the included hardware from the manufacturer to screw the doorbell in place.
• Install the faceplate and secure it with hardware (if applicable).

How to install a doorbell chime?

If your home doesn't currently have a doorbell set up, it's a good idea to buy a plug-in chime. These chime kits come with everything you need to set up the chime, including a plug-in transmitter and receiver that goes into an outlet for easy setup.

However, if your heart is set on installing a chime, we've got you covered.

• Turn off the power at your circuit breaker and test it with a voltmeter to make sure it's off.
• Figure out where you want to place your chime on the wall and mark the mounting holes with a pencil. Pro-tip: Use a leveler to make sure everything is neat and even.
• Once again, you'll need to be careful when drilling holes into the wall, so you don't interfere with any other wires. And if you're not comfortable doing this, you should hire a professional.
• Drill holes where you've marked the wall with your pencil. This is where you'll put the toggle bolts included in your chime kit.
• Now, you'll place the chime cover to the wall, threading the wires through the open port, then screw or bolt down the chime cover into the wall.
• You should see three different screws, one for the "front" of the doorbell, the "trans" (transformer) and the "back." The "back" is only used if you want to set up a doorbell to a back door.
• Wrap each wire around its corresponding screw.
• Now, you should be able to turn the breaker back on and test your chime before screwing the front of the chime in place.

If everything is in working order, great! Screw or snap the chime cover to the wall.

What is the range of a doorbell chime?

Plug-in doorbell chimes can reach up to 1500 feet, but the most common range is a few hundred feet.

If your home is large, you can opt for a wide range chime or you can purchase an additional receiver to add range to space like a basement.

Let ADT install a new doorbell camera in your home!

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With customizable home security packages for any home and budget, ADT's professional monitoring helps you keep an eye on your home.

ADT Blu: know who’s at your door — before you open it.

An ADT Blu video doorbell helps you see, hear, and respond to whoever steps onto your porch — from a delivery driver to an unexpected visitor — from the ADT+ app on a compatible device. Designed for easy DIY setup, from the most trusted name in home security.

See ADT Blu doorbells.