Checking Compatibility - How to tell if Nest Hello will work in your customer’s home
Follow the steps below to see if you can replace your customer’s doorbell with Nest Hello.
1. Check if there is an existing doorbell. If your customer does not already have a doorbell, they will need a
doorbell transformer and low voltage wires installed. Evaluate the work required and ask the customer if
they’d like for you to provide an estimate.
2. Check if they have an intercom, front gate control or other integrated device. Some advanced doorbell
systems have a built-in intercom, gate control or a doorbell that’s located far from the home (such as an
outside gate). These cases will not be compatible with Nest Hello.
3. Check how the doorbell and chime are powered.
a. If you see two or more wires, Nest Hello will probably work. But, you need to check the voltage.
b. If you see both wires and batteries, Nest Hello will probably work, but you need to check the
voltage. Go to step 4 below.
c. If you see only batteries and no wires, Nest Hello will not work. But in some cases, a battery
powered chime and doorbell are installed over old doorbell wires. If there are wires under the
battery powered chime and doorbell, they may work with Nest Hello.
4. Check the wire voltage. Nest Hello will work in most homes that already have a wired doorbell. But in
about 25% of those homes, the doorbell system can’t deliver enough voltage to Nest Hello.
a. Check the voltage at the doorbell wires. If the measured voltage is between 14 and 30 V AC, your
wiring should work with Nest Hello. If the measured voltage is below 14 or over 30, you may need
to upgrade your transformer so it can work with Nest Hello.
b. Find the doorbell transformer. Transformers can be difficult to locate. Common places for
transformers are inside the doorbell chime box, near the breaker or fuse box, in the attic space, or
in the basement or crawl space under the home. Use a tone generator if you have one to help
locate the transformer. Electrical transformers are typically labeled with a voltage rating. It’s
usually molded or etched into the transformer’s body. If the transformer is labeled anywhere
from 16 to 24 Volts AC and 10 VA, Nest Hello will be compatible. If it’s labeled below 16 Volts, or
over 24 Volts you will need to upgrade the transformer.
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