Sunday, January 3, 2010

Ding, dong, the doorbell is still dead

I was quite proud of myself today...which quickly evaporated. I was on my way to HD to buy a new transformer for our broken doorbell, thinking that was its problem. As I stood on the stepladder with my flashlight in the basement, I learned that the voltage for the existing transformer was only 8 volts. I think I had assumed it was more like 12-15 so I really thought it was kaput. Seeing that and testing it again, it was exactly 8 volts. So, the transformer is fine. So I figured we just needed a new button. I went to HD and got a nice one and returned home to install it. Unfortunately, despite its beauty, it still doesn't work. So, no issues with transformer, button is new and properly wired (I am pretty sure, at least), so that means it's either the chime or the 90-year-old wiring. I am thinking that instead of buying a new chime or having to rewire, I'm just going to buy a wireless one. I know, I know - tacky, but functional, right? Maybe I can find a cool-looking one?

3 comments:

Diana said...

I have been looking for a new doorbell myself (when they "upgraded" the wiring in my house, they just snipped the electricity going to the transformer entirely and I don't want to run new electricity to an old transformer and old wiring and risk having the same problem you do). I haven't found a nice-sounding wireless doorbell online yet. They all sound like they belong in a retirement RV park. Unless "Dixie" or "The Yellow Rose of Texas" is your style, Home Depot has some halfway decent ones, but they are rather expensive.

(I don't know if I've introduced myself to you yet; I found your blog through houseblogs and I also have a Bangor Foursquare -- I think. It's in Bangor, at least :) )

sarah said...

Ugh, annoying. I've been wanting an old, non-electric, twist bell but they're quite expensive and I just can't justify it. So people will have to keep on knockin'.

Leslie @ NE Portland Bungalow said...

Bummer! Our doorbell is out, too, so I was really hoping to hear about your triumph, so I could learn from your project! I guess I'll have to inspect mine more. Good to know I can pick up a new transformer pretty easily, though. Good luck with the bell and bathroom!