As well as a choice of sounds, you can install a doorbell that is battery or transformer operated. Some bells and chimes have a battery or batteries housed inside their casing, while others are operated by a built-in transformer, which reduces the 240-volt mains power to a lesser voltage needed for the equipment.
The battery, bell and bell push are connected by fine insulated 'bell wire'. Because it is generally two-core wire and very fine, it is most often surface run - along the top of skirting boards or in the angle between the wall and ceiling. Bell wire also connects a transformer to a bell and bell push. The transformer is connected to a junction box or ceiling rose in a lighting circuit with 1 mm sq. two-core and earth cable. On a ring circuit, a spur is run in 2.5mm sq. two-core and earth cable to an unswitched fused connection unit fitted with a 3-amp fuse, then with 1 mm sq. two-core and earth cable from the unit to the transformer 'mains' terminals. If, on the other hand, you have a spare 5 amp fuse way in your consumer unit, you could run 1 mm sq. two-core and earth cable from this to the transformer 'Mains' terminals.
If you are uncertain about undertaking any electrical work, there are also 'wireless' doorbell systems, which are operated by batteries inside the bell push and in a receiving sounder unit. The two components generally have to be placed in a straight line with each other and within an optimum receiving distance.
Fitting
To fit your doorbell, you will have to drill a small hole in the doorframe and pass the bell wire through to the outside. Buy a kit that includes full manufacturer's instructions.
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