New doorbells have lots of bells and whistles
Before electricity, doorbells rang via a complex rigging of mechanical pulleys. Visitors pulled a rope or turned a key-like affair — think Downton Abbey's elaborate system to summon staff, but on a smaller scale for the masses.
The electric doorbell was invented in 1831, and by the early 1900s was all the rage. Chimes and bells could be heard from anywhere in the house; a tremendous convenience for homeowners and visitors alike.
Today, you can coordinate the look and sound of your doorbell to your home's style. You also can embrace the internet age with video doorbells that can be answered from thousands of miles away.
If you're renovating an older home, there are several retro-style doorbells. There's a round oak bell, popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s, with a porcelain button. A mid-century starburst style comes in chrome or brass. And a couple of vintage-look ones are stamped with a “ring” or “please ring” note, in oil-rubbed bronze or burnished finishes.
Got a vacation home near the water? Consider a doorbell shaped like a turtle, crab, scallop or starfish. There are cast-metal ones shaped like hummingbirds, daisies and dragonflies. You could opt for a cabin-y look with a doorbell in the form of a pine forest or bear, or go full rustic with a truly Old School bell on a rope, in brass cast like a horse's head.
Having a “smart” doorbell, with video, allows you to keep an eye on your front door area, not only for visitors but for packages. With many of these units, you can speak with the person ringing your bell.
Consumer Reports' Eric Hager acknowledged concerns about tech systems' vulnerability to hackers, but said homeowners seem willing to take on those risks for the convenience and other safety features.
There's a wireless video intercom kit that includes an outside doorbell camera and an inside intercom. Homeowners can see who's at the front door from different locations in the home. The unit can be powered by a long-life battery, or you can hook it up to existing doorbell wiring.
Another video doorbell has a motion sensor, night vision and optional alarm. It lets homeowners traveling speak with visitors at their door. It's also touted as rugged enough to withstand extreme weather.
