We all have those little things around the house that need attention but never quite make it to the top of our to-do list. They aren’t emergencies, just minor annoyances or outdated fixtures that we mean to replace eventually. If you have a list of those projects too, why not start tackling them one by one? Let’s make a small change that delivers a big impact installing new doorbells!
When we moved into our home, I had every intention of swapping out the old doorbell right away. But as with many little things, other priorities got in the way. After we had the house painted, however, that old, sad-looking doorbell stood out even more, and I couldn’t ignore it any longer. I finally took the plunge and replaced it—and now I can’t believe I waited so long!
The Magic of a Small Upgrade
Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a home feel fresh and put-together. A doorbell may seem insignificant, but when it’s dingy, worn-out, or outdated, it detracts from your home’s overall look. Once I installed the new one, I was amazed at how much better our front entrance looked. It’s such a simple change, yet it makes a world of difference!
If you’ve never really noticed your doorbell before, that’s fine! But if you take a closer look and see that it’s a little grimy or just doesn’t match your home’s aesthetic anymore, it might be time for an upgrade.
Choosing the Right Doorbell
For our home, I chose a cast iron doorbell that has a classic, sturdy appearance. I originally bought it for the back door, but I loved the brass button so much that I decided to install it on the front door instead. It instantly gave our entryway a more polished and refined look.
Meanwhile, for our back deck, I opted for a light-up doorbell, which is incredibly convenient for guests arriving after dark. If the deck light isn’t on, they can still find the doorbell with ease. While I suspect the screws were meant to be placed on the sides, it still looks far better than the old one!
How to Install a New Doorbell
The good news is that replacing a doorbell button is an easy DIY project. If I can do it, so can you! Even with turning the power off and back on, plus some quick touch-ups with white paint, the entire process took no more than 10-15 minutes for both doorbells.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to replacing a wired doorbell:
Turn Off the Power
- Safety first! While it’s not always necessary to shut off power to the entire house, I personally like to do so just to be extra cautious. If you prefer, you can turn off power only to the specific circuit controlling the doorbell.
Remove the Old Doorbell
- Unscrew the existing doorbell from the house. Once it’s loose, turn it over to reveal the wiring.
- Loosen the screws that are securing the wires and carefully detach them.
Attach the New Doorbell
- Connect the wires to the new doorbell in the same manner as the old one.
- Tighten the screws to ensure a secure connection.
Secure the New Doorbell in Place
- Use screws to attach the doorbell firmly to the wall.
- If necessary, touch up the surrounding area with matching paint.
- Turn the Power Back On and Test It
- Restore power and press the doorbell a few times. Enjoy the sound of success—ding-dong, ding-dong!
- Give yourself a well-earned pat on the back.
A Small Change with a Big Impact
This is one of those new-doorbells-little-things projects that makes a surprisingly noticeable difference. With minimal effort, you can enhance your home’s curb appeal and make your entryway feel fresh and inviting. I only wish I had done this sooner!
Stylish and Affordable Doorbell Options
Before replacing ours, I was surprised at how many beautiful, yet reasonably priced, doorbells are available. Who knew such a small detail could be so stylish? If you’re considering a doorbell upgrade, here are some great options.
Each of these options adds a touch of charm and elegance to any entryway. If I had seen the intricate brass one earlier, I might have chosen that instead!
More Home Projects to Come
Now that the doorbells are taken care of, I’m feeling motivated to tackle more of those new-doorbells-little-things around the house. Sometimes, checking off one small task inspires a whole chain of home improvements!
Tomorrow, I’m excited to kick off a 4-week series on preparing for the holidays, room by room. If you love decorating and getting your home holiday-ready, stay tuned for tips and inspiration. I’ll be sharing ideas on making your home warm and festive without overwhelming yourself in the process.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been putting off replacing your doorbell, take this as your sign to go for it. It’s quick, easy, and makes a noticeable difference. Plus, it’s a fun, satisfying project that reminds us how little things can have a big impact on our homes.
Have a great week ahead—and happy home improving!
