When to use a Wired Doorbell

With all the wireless technology on the market, why would you want to install a wired doorbell? The answer is simple: interference. Interference is the main downfall of a wireless doorbell system. Materials like concrete, metal, brick or other dense objects can block the signal from the push button to the receiver. Not all interference comes from a physical object; invisible natural and electrical frequencies can also make it difficult for a receiver to detect a transmitter. There are longer range wireless doorbells that may help get through the interference, but even the longest ranged systems have their limitations.

With a wired doorbell, the signal travels down an electrical wire. As long as the wire is not separated, the receiver will always work. This is perfect for installations where there may be metal walls or heavy interference between the push button and the receiver. A wire is run from the outside button to the chime directly. When the outside button is pressed, the signal runs down the wire to the receiver letting it know that the circuit has been completed. The receiver then alerts you with a simple “ding-dong”, or a more elaborate tone.

Since the push buttons do not have a wireless transmitter, they are generally smaller in size, which allows them to be mounted to a smaller doorframe. The lack of a transmitter also allows you to have a metal push button if you have a matching gate or detailing around your property. Also, since the push button is hard-wired, it requires no batteries. The receiver chime can be also be wired directly into your building’s electrical with a 16 Volt transformer, or run on batteries for about a year. You may also have multiple chimes, like a wireless doorbell system, for larger instillations.

Wireless doorbells are great and easy to install, but sometimes you just need the look and reliability of a wired doorbell system.