I recently had someone ask me about a broken humming doorbell.  The doorbell was making an a constant humming sound that sounded like an old oven buzzer.  If you have this problem, here are the steps to fix it:

1. Turn off the breaker to the doorbell.   This can be a pain if the breaker is not marked.  You will most likely be looking for a 15 – 20Amp breaker.   Caution: If you are flipping through the breakers you will reset all the clocks and electronic what-nots in your house.  When the buzzing has stopped, you have most likely found your breaker.

2. When you are confident you have found the breaker (the light on the button will no longer be illuminated), remove the doorbell button from the front of your house.  Carefully separate the doorbell wires and tape each end with electrical tape to prevent electrical shock.  Turn the breaker on, and listen for the buzz.  If the unit is no longer buzzing, you can most likely fix your problem with a new doorbell button.  If it is still buzzing, turn off the breaker and go to step 3.

3.  This is always an irritating place to be…The wires have most likely been compromised (shorted out on the button side of the doorbell).  You now have three options : 1) most adventurous – replace the wire to the button (almost impossible if you do not have an attic near your front door). 2)get someone else to fix it for you. 3) disconnect the wired unit and replace with a wireless unit from your local building store.  **sometimes the transformer in the attic is the problem…you can also try replacing it along with the button to see if the buzz stops **

**Safety Note** working with electricity can be dangerous.  If you are not comfortable with electricity,  you should not participate in this post…Get a professional electrician.

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