—What you are noticing
A doorbell or intercom that has stopped working
Doorbells and intercoms run on low voltage or batteries, so faults are usually in the supply, the wiring run or the unit itself.
Traditional doorbells use a small transformer that reduces mains voltage, wired to a push at the gate or door and a chime inside. Battery and wireless doorbells depend on charged batteries and a clear signal. Video doorbells and intercoms may also rely on a network connection and app settings.
This guide describes what people notice and what is safe to do. It does not diagnose your installation; only someone who has seen it can.
Simple checks include batteries, pairing, Wi-Fi status and any power supply indicator. Outdoor pushes are exposed to sun, dust and water, which can damage contacts. Where the transformer or wiring run is involved, an electrician can test the supply and the cable between gate and house.
01In short
The points that matter most
Check power first
Batteries or the transformer supply.
Outdoor parts suffer
Sun and water damage pushes and contacts.
Network matters for video units
Wi-Fi and app settings affect operation.
02Detail
What is checked
Transformer or power supply
Output and connections.
Wiring run
Cable between gate, door and chime or monitor.
Units
Push, chime, monitor and any network settings.
03Checklist
Before calling
Replace batteries
For battery units.
Check the app
Connection status for smart units.
Look at the outdoor push
For damage or water.
04Questions
Questions people ask
- Why did it stop after rain?
- Water can damage outdoor pushes or connections.
- Can a video doorbell run on old doorbell wiring?
- Sometimes, if the transformer suits it; check the manufacturer’s requirements.
- Is a doorbell fault dangerous?
- Low-voltage systems are low risk, but the transformer is mains-connected.
05Related
Related guides
- A fridge or freezer that keeps losing powerAnother thing people notice, with a related check.
- When a socket stops workingAnother thing people notice, with a related check.
- When to stop resetting a breakerA related safety point or decision.
- Signs an electrical problem is urgentA related safety point or decision.
This guide sits under troubleshooting. All topics are on the guides page.
—NEXT
Doorbell silent?
Tell us the type of doorbell and what you have checked. We will advise on the next step.