Bakelite doorbell button

A round doorbell button in black bakelite, to fit near a front door or a gate, to replace a damaged plastic button or to equip an old house with a model that suits it. It operates a low-voltage bell, the kind installed with a small transformer.

Body and push button are in moulded black bakelite. It measures 50 mm in diameter and 20 mm deep, with a self-cleaning contact. It takes a maximum of 24 V AC (from 5 mA to 1.5 A, 24 VA) or 24 V DC (from 5 mA to 1 A, 12 W), IP 20 rating. Made by THPG, the German manufacturer of classic-style fittings.

It is wired to the bell circuit, not to the 230 V mains. The IP 20 rating calls for a sheltered spot: under a porch or in an entrance hall, not out in the rain.