Doorbell Transformer Buzzing After Installing Ring: Audible Noise from the Chime-box
Constant low humming or buzzing sound from a transformer is normal. The magnetic field that electricity flow creates usually makes noise.
But if the doorbell transformer buzzing after installing the ring or any other doorbell, it can mean there is something wrong with either the installation or the transformer itself.
Key Takeaway
Understanding the Problem: Doorbell Transformer Buzzing After Installing Ring
The Ring doorbell switch inside the chime box is normally an open circuit. What it is supposed to do is send power to the chime momentarily when someone rings it.
Smart doorbells however keep a little power on the line constantly since they are drawing power. As a result, you may notice a buzzing noise or vibration coming from the chime box or transformer.
The constant low voltage reaching the chime causes the strikers or knockers to bounce or vibrate without someone pressing the ring button.
This would be the same whether it is a Ring doorbell or any other smart doorbell like Nest or Aqara doorbells.
A quick way to get rid of buzzing is to add a resistor to the transformer so the constant voltage does not go to the chime box.
Possible Reasons Behind Doorbell Transformer Buzzing After Installing Ring (Solutions Added!)
Doorbell transformer buzzing after installing Ring Pro 2 or any 2nd gen Ring doorbell model is a very common problem.
Thankfully, Ring LLC acknowledges the fault and will provide you with replacement parts if you encounter similar issues.
Here are some possible reasons behind the doorbell transformer buzzing after installing the ring:
Wiring Issues
Wiring problems are often the most common culprit behind issues with electric devices. Loose or frayed wires and incorrect wiring setups can disrupt the flow of electricity causing the transformer to buzz.
Poor installation or wear over time can also have an impact on producing the issue. Improper connections lead to an incomplete circuit or excessive resistance which creates a low voltage area.
Solution:
Inspect the wiring connections. The wires are usually color-coded for different functions like:
- White or Gray – Neutral Wire
- Green or Blue – Ground Wire
- Black or Red – Hot or Live Wire
Follow the color code and install it in the right way. Replace damaged or frayed wires and solder them into place so it does not come loose.
Underpowered Transformer
This is a very common problem with replacing the old analog doorbell with a smart one like Ring doorbell. Traditional doorbell systems have lower voltage transformers that are not compatible with the smart ones.
The transformer may end up not being able to meet the power demand of the new doorbell system. As a result, the transformer works at maximum capacity to provide the power a doorbell system needs.
Solution:
Check the voltage output of your existing transformer. Ring doorbells have a voltage requirement of 16V 20amp AC volts. Transformers for older doorbells are usually 16V 10amp.
Swap it out for a 16V 30amp transformer and the issue should be gone. It will also leave headroom for extra power demand. You can check prices here: 16V 30Amp Transformer.
Transformer Failure
Sometimes the buzzing noise may be an indication that the transformer is failing or malfunctioning. Transformers degrade over time as current flows through them.
The aging or wear increases the noise output over time and the transformer unit starts to struggle to maintain a steady flow of power. This in turn causes the buzzing or humming noise coming from it.
Solution:
Ring doorbells have specific transformer needs. To work a Ring Pro power kit with your doorbell system you will need a compatible transformer.
Get a technician to assess the condition of your existing transformer. If it is damaged, replace it with a certified official Ring transformer that you can buy from their website. Buy here: Ring Hardwired Transformer.
It will cost you around $25 and additional technician fees for installing it. If you already bought one, then send it back to Ring LLC and they will give you a replacement for it.
Ground fault
Another potential cause behind the buzzing noise is a ground fault in the wiring system creating a static zone. This is an especially problematic situation. It does not damage your components but will degrade them in a shorter period.
Ground faults happen when the live wire touches another wire and the flow of electricity starts leaking. This disrupts the electrical flow. Static zones are known to have loud buzzing noise.
Solution:
Check if the live wire (Black or Red) is unintentionally connected to the ground in any way. Insulate the wires correctly and make sure there is ample distance between the live and ground wires.
If you see any exposed parts, cover it up with 2-sided tape and fix it into a position where it does not come loose. Also, check if the ground wire is functioning properly.
Voltage Overload
Transformers take standard electrical voltage and lower it to meet the specific needs of low-voltage appliances. A typical household has a grid line or panel voltage of 120V or 240V.
A transformer lowers this voltage to the range of 10-24V so that it does not damage the appliance with voltage surges. If it cannot lower it down then you may hear a buzzing noise from this voltage overcharge.
Solution:
Check the voltage coming to and out of the transformer using a multimeter. If the voltage out of the transformer is more than the rating or it fluctuates often then the transformer is not working optimally.
You can either get a replacement or install a voltage regulator or surge protector. These devices stabilize the voltage supply and can effectively prevent overload. The buzzing noise should be gone when the voltage is optimal.
How to Properly Install Ring Doorbell Pro?
Proper installation can get rid of a lingering problem with the least amount of effort.
If you are not comfortable working your way around the power consumption numbers and complex electrical wiring you should hire a pro to do it for you.
If you do decide to DIY, then follow these steps to ensure proper installation:
Get the Right Transformer
As discussed above, the compatibility of the transformer with the increased power demand of the smart Ring doorbell system is a big consideration.
Get the official Ring transformer instead of third-party ones as that meets the requirements. If you are not sure how to install it watch this video for an in-depth guide.
Dedicated Circuit Breaker for Doorbell
Get a dedicated breaker for your doorbell. Having a dedicated breaker can reduce half the problems you face. Common breakers for doorbell systems are MCBs, GFCIs, and AFCIs.
Read about breakers for doorbell systems here.
Proper Wiring and Safety checks
Follow Ring’s installation manual and insulate the wires so it does not cause any grounding or arc faults. Check the wires for any leaks before installing them.
Double-check all the connections and wiring and tighten the screws properly. Test the doorbell to verify if it is functioning properly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can a Ring doorbell fry a transformer?
It can if it exceeds the rating of the transformer. It will not cause a fire but can severely damage the transformer.
How to diagnose a failing transformer for my doorbell?
Measure the voltage with a multimeter to see if it is producing enough electricity. Make contact between each probe and each screw head. The voltage should be at or around 16V.
How to tell if the doorbell transformer is bad without a multimeter?
Use a non-contact voltage tester to test the electrical current.
