Doorbell and Transformer Installation

[Robert Parker]

I am looking to install the Ring Doorbell Pro to my property that currently has no hard wired doorbell.

The easiest route for running cable seems to be from the lighting circuit in the loft, down the cavity, to my front door.

I believe i need 18 gauge cable for the doorbell to the transformer, but i'm assuming i cannot use that same 18 gauge between the light switch to the transformer?

If not, what cable should i be using from the switch to the transformer?

Other than the cable, i'm assuming that everything else i am doing is an acceptable electrical process.

Any advice greatly recieved!

 

[AndyPRK]

1mm cable from lighting to transformer.

The transformer may need an enslosure

 

[Robert Parker]

So the 18 gauge cable would be OK?

 

[AndyPRK]

No.
It needs to be double insulated for the voltage.

Eg grey or white sheeth

 

[Robert Parker]

So 18 gauge, but double insulated?

Also, how do i know if the transformer need to be enclosed? The transformer was supplied with the Ring doorbell and is a DIN mounted type.

 

[Astra99]

The Ring transformers I have seen for DIN-rail mounting DO require an enclosure. IIRC the enclosure needs to be 2-module, and these may be obtained from Screwfix, TLC, CEF and Toolstation among others. Search for "2-module DIN enclosure".

 

[RF Lighting]

So 18 gauge, but double insulated?

No, 1.0mm². 18 gauge is not a standard UK wire size, and will not comply with the appropriate British standards.

 

[winston1]

18 gauge by itself is meaningless. Could be 18SWG (standard wire gauge, a UK standard), or 18AWG (American wire gauge). They are different sizes.

 

[JohnW2]

18 gauge by itself is meaningless. Could be 18SWG (standard wire gauge, a UK standard), or 18AWG (American wire gauge). They are different sizes.

Indeed, and although the former is about 1.17mm², the latter is only about 0.82mm².

Kind Regards, John

 

[bernardgreen]

The transformer may need an enslosure

It may even fit inside the consumer unit. ( but not the best option for DIY as it involves significant work inside the consumer unit )

Search for "2-module DIN enclosure".

Sensible advice from Astra99

 

[Robert Parker]

Thanks all, you have been really helpful and certainly taught me a thing or two!