What is a Wireless Doorbell?

A traditional doorbell system is usually wired directly into the home's electrical system. When a visitor depresses a button at the front door, an electrical circuit is complete and a chime box or bell sounds inside the home. In recent years, however, an alternative to the wired doorbell system has been developed which addresses many of the problems inherent in such a system. A wireless doorbell eliminates the need for internal wiring, can be installed with minimal tools, and the chime box receiver can be placed anywhere within the range of the doorbell transmitter.

A wireless doorbell system generally consists of two components: a doorbell transmitter and a chime box receiver. When a visitor presses the wireless doorbell button at the front door, the battery-powered transmitter sends out a signal over a designated radio frequency. The receiver inside the chime box detects this signal and emits a loud electronic tone of the owner's choosing. If there are several receivers within range of the transmitter, all of them should chime simultaneously.

Installing a wireless doorbell system is a relatively simple project for a homeowner or renter. The transmitter doorbell can be attached to the front door with two-sided tape or through the installation of a few screws provided with the system. It is not necessary to remove an old wired doorbell system or connect any wires to the transmitter. Most wireless doorbell transmitters are battery powered, which means the owner may have to replace the batteries periodically.

The second component of a wireless doorbell system is a chime box receiver unit. A homeowner can place this chime box anywhere within the range of the doorbell transmitter, which can vary from model to model. Some wireless chime boxes are battery powered, but others may have a power cord which can be plugged into any household outlet. Some chime boxes only emit standard chime or bell tones, while others can be customized to play a variety of songs or other distinctive sounds. Many can also be silenced if privacy is desired.

A wireless doorbell is an ideal solution for those who rent apartments or are reluctant to install new wiring into a home. Installation of the system does not require special electrical training or equipment. Renters can remove the entire system without causing any damage to a landlord's property.

There can be a wide price range when it comes to wireless doorbell systems. A basic model generally features a limited range and few chiming options, while a high-end wireless doorbell system offers customizable chimes, self-limiting radio frequencies, extended transmitter range, as well as decorative elements for both the doorbell and chime box. Some wireless doorbell systems also include a wireless intercom for instant communication. Deluxe wireless doorbell systems can also be programmed to allow for remote access from a specially equipped cellphone, allowing an employee to enter the house without unlocking the door or setting off an alarm system.