How to Wire a Push Button Door Bell

Examine the back of the push button switch and locate the two electrical terminals connected to the back of the button. There usually is one on each side of the button, both consisting of small metal screws passing through metal plates. Loosen both terminal screws sufficiently to pass a wire underneath them.

Strip 1/4 inch of the insulation from the end of a length of bell wire. Insert the bare end of the wire into a switch terminal and tighten the screw to grip it firmly. Measure sufficient wire to reach from the switch to the location of the bell and cut the wire to that length. Call this the "bell wire."

Strip 1/4 inch of the insulation from the end of another length of bell wire. Insert the bare end of the wire into the remaining switch terminal and tighten it. Measure sufficient additional wire to reach to the location of the power supply. Cut the wire to the desired length. Call this the "power wire."

Remove the back from the bell unit. This often is attached by screws or clips. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions if the removal method is not obvious. Locate the two electrical terminals. On digital bells they may be marked as positive (+) and negative (-). Traditional analogue bells usually have unmarked terminals.

Strip the last 1/4 inch of insulation from the "bell wire" and connect it to the positive terminal if one is present, or to either terminal if they are unmarked.

Disconnect the power supply from the household power supply, or remove the batteries. Remove the back of the power supply. Again, this usually is held in place by small screws or clamps. Consult the manufacturer's instructions if the method is not obvious.
Strip the last 1/4 inch of insulation from the "power wire" and connect it to the positive terminal on the power supply.

Strip the last 1/4 inch of insulation from a new length of wire and connect it to the negative terminal on the power supply. Measure out sufficient wire to reach to the bell unit and cut the wire to length.

Strip the last 1/4 inch of insulation from the new length of wire and connect it to the negative or remaining terminal on the bell unit. Check that all the wires are attached properly to the terminals. Reconnect the power supply to the electrical supply or replace the batteries. Press the push button to test the bell.