Buying Checklist

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Buying Checklist

Every purchaser likes to know they have all the facts prior to making a purchase.  Here, is our list of questions to consider to make sure you make the best purchase for your needs.

1.  What type of range will you need?

o       Most Wireless models vary in range from 75 ft to 150 ft.

o       Longer range wireless models can extend up to 300 ft.

o       Wired models range can be much longer with the only limitation being the length of the wires.

2.  Do plan on doing a lot of remodeling?

o       Most Wireless models can be easily moved to allow for changes in the house. 

o       Although wireless plug in models would be limited by outlet locations.

o       Wired models do not lend themselves well to remodeling.  However, there are a large variety of models for bell receivers with some even letting you paint or cover the receiver with wallpaper. 

3.  Will you be moving soon?

o       Wireless models provide you the option of being able to easily take it with you.

o       A new wired doorbell can add curb appeal to home you are selling.

4.  What are your aesthetic needs?

o       Wired doorbells have the lion’s share of designs for doorbell buttons and bell receivers.  Design examples range from the very ordinary and functional to pieces of modern art.

o       Wireless doorbells tend to still lag behind in design as they still tend to have a white, artificial look to most.  Although an increasing number are starting to match their wired counterparts in design.

5.  Will you need to move the bell receiver frequently?

o       Wireless doorbells can be moved around the house with ease by moving the bell receiver.  If you plan on doing some home renovating or moving around furniture every few years, this can be a nice feature to use.

o       Wired doorbells require movement of wires and thus are limited.

6. Do you need a unit that can work outside?

o       Certain wireless doorbells can be purchased to be placed outside on the patio or deck.  This weatherproof units can even be placed poolside which can come in handy if you are in the backyard and a visitor comes to the door.

o       Wired doorbells can have this same functionality although they again would need wires moved to those parts of the home.

7.  How much variety do you want for your chimes and sounds list?

o       Wired and wireless models provide a rich variety of sounds and chimes. 

o       Models range from as few as 3 chimes up to 100s.  Personal preference and desire for change in chime sound will dictate this decision.

8.  How much are you willing to spend?

o       Wired models tend to be $5 to $10 dollars cheaper than their wireless counterparts.

o       The overall range for wired and wireless doorbells is roughly $15 to $150.

o       We recommend purchasing a doorbell at least in the range of $50 to $80.  This will ensure the effectiveness of the model and allow for a good amount of features.

9.  Are you hearing impaired or have a very noisy environment?

o        Bell receivers can now be purchased that have flashing lights to alert you visitors are at the door.

10.  How often do you want to replace the unit?

o       Wireless doorbell models that are not plug-ins will require replacement of batteries.  Although you can reasonably expect the batteries to last two years.

o       Wireless doorbell models tend to last roughly five years.  Warranties for models tend to vary from 2 to 5 years.

o       Wired models tend to last for a long time with models working for over 10 years.  Wired Bell receivers do not have batteries so no need to replace them.

*If you have purchased a wireless doorbell, be sure to check out our how to install a wireless doorbell article.