Do I Need a Transformer for my Doorbell?

April 07, 2019

We get a lot of questions about doorbell transformers! Here we will attempt to answer the most common of them. Please see our handy wiring guide for more details on a range of installation configurations!

What is a doorbell transformer?

A transformer converts line-voltage to low-voltage (16 volts). In the United States, line-voltage 120 for most household wiring (this is what is running to your lights and outlets). In Europe and other parts of the world, line-voltage is 240. Any transformer that converts line-voltage to low-voltage will work as a doorbell transformer.

Is a transformer required for all doorbells?

Yes. Doorbells are low-voltage applications and they will not work without a transformer.

Do I need a transformer?

Are you replacing an existing doorbell? If so, then you probably already have a transformer buried in a wall somewhere. Replacing your existing doorbell or chime should be straightforward and whatever wires you find when you remove the old doorbell will work with the new Spore doorbell button or chime. 

If you are building new construction or doing a remodel and adding a doorbell for the first time, you WILL need a transformer. 

Can I buy my doorbell transformer from Spore? 

Yes! We sell a transformer for 120-to-16 applications here.

How many transformers will I need?

Only one transformer is required for your doorbell system (doorbell button and chime). It can even support multiple doorbell buttons and chimes. 

What about video doorbell systems?

Video doorbell systems are low-voltage and require a transformer. If you have a video doorbell button that you are using with a Spore RING chime, you will be wiring both to the same transformer.

Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.

Also in Blog

Spore Operations During COVID-19 Outbreak

March 28, 2020

During this pandemic, Spore's web store remains open for business, but our shipping may be slower than usual as we work with reduced staff and cannot guarantee delivery times of shipping services. 

Thank you for supporting our small, family-owned business.

Read More

Black Doorbells and Chimes: a Primer

April 18, 2019

Are you looking for a black doorbell button or black door chime? Spore has you covered. This versatile finish looks fantastic on both contemporary and traditional homes in a way that no other finish can compare. We've embraced it and offer our thoughts on the ways that illumination color can convey different tones to the same black finish.

Read More

On Repair: A Story of a Broken Doorbell Button

April 07, 2019 1 Comment

In the office last week, we were discussing the importance of building repairable products. We are happy to say that we don't get a lot of calls requesting help with repairs, as our products are built to be sturdy in exterior applications. Nonetheless, some of our doorbell buttons have been in the field for decades now, and once in while we hear from someone whose doorbell is looking a bit shabby or whose LEDs have bit the dust. Whenever possible, we offer replacement parts to try to help customers repair their Spore products.

Read More