How to Clean a Sticking Doorbell Chime

Quck answer

If your doorbell chime is sticking, follow these steps to clean it:

1. Turn off the power: Before working on any electrical component, turn off the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box.

2. Remove the cover: Take off the cover of the doorbell chime to access the internal components.

3. Clean the contacts: Use a soft cloth or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the metal contacts inside the chime. Gently wipe away any dirt or debris that may be causing the sticking.

4. Lubricate the moving parts: Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the moving parts of the chime, such as the striker mechanism. This will help reduce friction and allow the chime to operate smoothly.

5. Reassemble and test: Put the cover back on the chime and turn the power back on. Test the doorbell to ensure that it is working properly and no longer sticking.

By following these simple steps, you can clean a sticking doorbell chime and restore its functionality.


A sticking doorbell chime can be quite annoying, whether it doesn’t ring properly or continues to chime even after the button is pressed. This issue could be caused by a mechanical problem, or it could be due to dirt buildup around the plungers or clappers. Before you jump to an expensive and time-consuming doorbell repair or replacement, try thoroughly cleaning these parts. You can easily remove the accumulated dirt using a few common household items.

Step 1

Start by removing the screws that secure the doorbell cover. Keep them in a safe place and carefully take off the cover.

Step 2

Take a cotton swab and dip it into rubbing alcohol. Make sure the cotton tip is moist.

Step 3

Gently rub the moist cotton swab over the clapper and gong, applying enough pressure to remove dirt without causing any damage to the unit.

Step 4

Replace the cotton swab with a clean one as soon as it becomes dirty.

Step 5

Use the same cleaning method to thoroughly clean the plungers of mechanical doorbells. Also, make sure to clean the indented area where the plungers move when the doorbell is in operation.

Step 6

Once you have finished cleaning, put the doorbell cover back on.

Leave a Comment