Also called a door chime, the doorbell is currently the most affordable presence alert on the market. Besides its economic aspect, its simplicity stands out as its greatest asset. It is easy to install and use, and requires no particular maintenance.
In its basic form, the doorbell comes in two main categories.
- The wired model is equipped with wires connecting the street box to speakers located inside the dwelling. Depending on the installation, the wire can be installed in the wall through channels or laid discreetly along edges to avoid major work.
- The wireless model, requiring batteries to operate, as the device is not connected to the domestic electrical network. Communication between the exterior box and the speakers is ensured by radio waves. Thus, the installation may experience interference beyond a certain distance.
To choose the right door chime, it is necessary to focus on some practical criteria. The user must consider certain parameters in particular.
- Its sound quality: this involves the quality of the melody and the volume of the sound emitted by the device. Indeed, some models allow adjusting the volume level according to the size of the building or the needs of the user.
- its waterproofing, especially at the street box which is exposed to the weather.
- its accessories allowing the inclusion of additional functionalities. It is possible to add a motion detector at the entrance of the house, to personalize the ringtone as desired or to emit a sound and a light signal for the hearing impaired as well as for people who are constantly exposed to noise emitted by certain devices used in the home (sculptor, carpenter, etc.).
- its maximum range corresponding to that of the radio waves on wireless models, i.e., 200 meters. Logically, if the house is very far from the main entrance, it is better to opt for wired versions.
Ergonomics and design are also important elements in the choice of this type of presence alert. In terms of functionality and aesthetics:
- wireless devices are often very elegant, but it is preferable to choose a model that can integrate into the home's decor style;
- it is important to check the practicality of the necessary fixtures for setting up the system (screws, adhesives, etc.).
The choice of a door chime or doorbell depends above all on the distance between the entrance and the inside of the house. They can also be chosen based on their practicality (ergonomics, sound volume, additional options, etc.) and the user's taste (aesthetics, melody, etc.).