This guide walks you through the process of connecting two Nest doorbells to a single chime, ensuring both front and back doors trigger the same indoor alert. You’ll learn wiring tips, compatibility checks, and troubleshooting advice for a seamless setup.
Key Takeaways
- Check chime compatibility: Not all mechanical chimes support dual doorbells—verify your model before starting.
- Use a compatible transformer: A 16-24V AC transformer with at least 20VA power is essential for reliable operation.
- Wire both doorbells in parallel: Connect both Nest doorbells to the same chime terminals to trigger one sound.
- Label wires clearly: Prevent confusion by marking front and rear door wires during installation.
- Test before finalizing: Always test the chime and app notifications after wiring to ensure both doorbells work.
- Update the Nest app: Assign unique names to each doorbell for easy identification in notifications.
- Consider a smart chime alternative: If your existing chime isn’t compatible, use a Nest Chime Connector or smart plug with a wireless chime.
How to Install Two Nest Doorbells to One Chime
So, you’ve got two doors—maybe a front entrance and a side or back door—and you want both to alert you when someone’s there. You’ve chosen the sleek, smart Nest Doorbell (wired or battery), and now you’re wondering: *Can I connect two Nest doorbells to one chime?*
The short answer? **Yes, you can—but it takes a bit of planning and the right setup.**
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to install two Nest doorbells so they both trigger the same indoor chime. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a first-time installer, we’ll keep things simple, safe, and stress-free. You’ll learn how to check compatibility, wire both doorbells correctly, configure the Nest app, and troubleshoot common issues.
By the end, you’ll have a smart, unified doorbell system that keeps you informed no matter which door someone uses. Let’s get started!
Why Install Two Nest Doorbells to One Chime?
Visual guide about How to Install Two Nest Doorbells to One Chime
Image source: netatmostatic.blob.core.windows.net
Before diving into the how-to, let’s talk about the *why*. Many homes have more than one entrance—front, back, side, or even a gate. If you only have one doorbell, you might miss visitors or deliveries at other doors.
Installing two Nest doorbells gives you full coverage. But instead of having two separate chimes (which can get confusing), connecting both to **one central chime** simplifies things. You hear the same familiar sound no matter which door is pressed, and your Nest app still tells you *which* doorbell was triggered.
This setup is perfect for:
– Homes with multiple entry points
– Families who want consistent alerts
– People who prefer a single, reliable indoor chime over smartphone-only notifications
Plus, with Nest’s advanced features—like person detection, package alerts, and live video—you’ll never miss a thing.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these tools and materials:
- Two Nest Doorbells (wired or battery)
- Existing mechanical chime (or a compatible replacement)
- Compatible transformer (16–24V AC, 20VA or higher)
- Wire strippers
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
- Electrical tape
- Wire labels or colored tape
- Voltage tester (optional but recommended)
- Ladder (if mounting high)
- Smartphone with the Google Home or Nest app installed
If your current chime isn’t compatible with dual doorbells, you may also need:
– A Nest Chime Connector (for battery doorbells)
– A smart plug and wireless chime (as an alternative)
Step 1: Check Chime and Transformer Compatibility
Not all doorbell chimes can handle two doorbells. Most traditional mechanical chimes are designed for one doorbell button, so adding a second requires careful wiring.
Check Your Chime Type
Open your existing chime box (usually located in a closet, basement, or attic). Look for labels or a model number. Common brands include Nutone, Heath Zenith, and DoorChime.
Most mechanical chimes have two terminals:
– **Front (F)** – for the front doorbell
– **Rear (R)** – for a second doorbell (like a back door)
If your chime has both F and R terminals, you’re in luck—it’s already set up for two doorbells. Just connect one Nest doorbell to F and the other to R.
But if your chime only has one set of terminals (or no R terminal), you’ll need to wire both doorbells to the same terminals—**in parallel**. This means both buttons share the same circuit and trigger the same chime sound.
Verify Transformer Power
The transformer converts household voltage (120V) to the lower voltage (16–24V) needed for doorbells.
Check your transformer (usually near your electrical panel or furnace). It should be labeled with voltage (V) and amperage (VA).
For two Nest doorbells, you need:
– **Voltage:** 16–24V AC
– **Power:** At least 20VA (30VA is better for dual setups)
If your transformer is underpowered (e.g., 10VA), it may not support two doorbells reliably. Upgrade to a 20VA or 30VA transformer if needed.
Test Existing Wiring
Use a voltage tester to check if power is reaching the chime. Turn off the circuit breaker first for safety.
If there’s no power, the issue might be a faulty transformer, loose wiring, or a tripped breaker. Fix these before installing the Nest doorbells.
Step 2: Turn Off Power and Remove Old Doorbells
Safety first! Always turn off power before working with electrical wiring.
Turn Off the Circuit Breaker
Locate the breaker that controls your doorbell circuit (often labeled “doorbell,” “chime,” or “front door”). Flip it off.
Use a voltage tester at the chime to confirm power is off.
Remove Existing Doorbell Buttons
Unscrew and gently pull out the old doorbell buttons from both doors. You’ll see two wires connected to each.
Label them clearly:
– “Front Door – Wire 1” and “Front Door – Wire 2”
– “Rear Door – Wire 1” and “Rear Door – Wire 2”
This prevents confusion when reconnecting.
Disconnect Wires at the Chime
Open the chime box and disconnect the wires from the terminals. Note which wire goes where.
If your chime has F and R terminals, keep the front door wires on F and rear on R. If not, you’ll connect both sets to the same terminals later.
Step 3: Install the First Nest Doorbell
Now it’s time to install the first Nest Doorbell. We’ll start with the front door.
Mount the Doorbell
Hold the Nest Doorbell against the wall where you want it. Use the included mounting bracket as a template.
Drill pilot holes and secure the bracket with screws. Make sure it’s level.
Connect the Wires
Strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from the two front door wires.
Connect them to the Nest Doorbell’s terminals. It doesn’t matter which wire goes where—Nest doorbells are polarity-independent.
Tighten the screws and tuck the wires back into the wall.
Attach the Doorbell
Snap the Nest Doorbell onto the mounting bracket. Give it a gentle tug to ensure it’s secure.
Turn Power Back On
Flip the circuit breaker back on. The Nest Doorbell should light up and begin setup.
Complete Setup in the App
Open the Google Home or Nest app on your phone. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the doorbell to Wi-Fi and name it (e.g., “Front Door”).
Test the doorbell by pressing it. You should hear the chime and receive a notification.
Step 4: Install the Second Nest Doorbell
Now repeat the process for the second door (e.g., back or side door).
Mount and Wire the Second Doorbell
Use the same steps: mount the bracket, connect the wires, and attach the doorbell.
Label this one clearly in the app (e.g., “Back Door”).
Connect to the Same Chime
Here’s the key step: **both doorbells must connect to the chime so they trigger the same sound.**
If your chime has F and R terminals:
– Connect the front door wires to F
– Connect the rear door wires to R
If your chime only has one set of terminals:
– Connect both sets of wires to the same terminals (in parallel)
– Use wire nuts or terminal blocks to join the wires securely
For example:
– Connect both “front wire 1” and “rear wire 1” to the chime’s terminal
– Connect both “front wire 2” and “rear wire 2” to the other terminal
This ensures either button completes the circuit and rings the chime.
Secure and Test
Tuck all wires neatly into the chime box and close it.
Test both doorbells:
– Press the front doorbell → chime should sound
– Press the back doorbell → same chime should sound
If only one works, double-check wiring and connections.
Step 5: Configure the Nest App
With both doorbells installed, it’s time to set them up in the app.
Add the Second Doorbell
Open the Google Home or Nest app. Tap “+” > “Set up device” > “Do I already have a hub?” > “No, I need a hub.”
Follow the prompts to add the second Nest Doorbell. Assign it a unique name (e.g., “Back Door”).
Customize Notifications
Go to each doorbell’s settings and adjust:
– Alert sounds
– Motion sensitivity
– Quiet hours
– Notification preferences
You’ll now get alerts telling you *which* doorbell was pressed, even though both trigger the same chime.
Set Up Activity Zones (Optional)
Draw zones in the camera view to focus on specific areas (e.g., driveway, porch). This reduces false alerts.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, problems can arise. Here’s how to fix them.
Chime Doesn’t Ring
– Check power: Is the breaker on?
– Test transformer: Use a multimeter to verify 16–24V output
– Inspect wiring: Are all connections tight and correct?
– Try one doorbell at a time to isolate the issue
Chime Rings Weakly or Intermittently
– Likely caused by low voltage or a weak transformer
– Upgrade to a 20VA or 30VA transformer
– Ensure wires aren’t frayed or loose
One Doorbell Doesn’t Work
– Verify that both doorbells are properly connected to the chime
– Check app settings: Is the doorbell online and receiving power?
– For battery models: Replace batteries or ensure continuous power
False Alerts or No Video
– Adjust motion sensitivity in the app
– Clean the camera lens
– Ensure strong Wi-Fi signal at both doors
Chime Makes a Buzzing Sound
– This often happens when the transformer is overloaded
– Reduce load by using a higher-capacity transformer
– Or switch to a Nest Chime Connector (for battery doorbells)
Alternative: Use a Smart Chime Instead
If your existing chime isn’t compatible or you prefer a modern solution, consider these alternatives:
Nest Chime Connector
This small device plugs into a wall outlet and connects to your battery-powered Nest Doorbell. When the doorbell is pressed, it triggers a wireless chime (sold separately).
You can set up multiple Chime Connectors—one for each doorbell—and assign different sounds.
Smart Plug + Wireless Chime
Plug a wireless chime into a smart plug (like a Google Nest Mini or smart outlet). Use IFTTT or the Google Home app to trigger the chime when a doorbell is pressed.
This works well for homes without existing chimes or with incompatible systems.
Safety Tips and Best Practices
– Always turn off power before working with wiring
– Use wire labels to avoid confusion
– Don’t overload the transformer—upgrade if needed
– Keep wires neat and secure to prevent shorts
– Test each step before moving on
– Follow local electrical codes
Conclusion
Installing two Nest doorbells to one chime is a smart way to stay connected to all your home’s entrances. With the right wiring, a compatible transformer, and a little patience, you can create a seamless system that alerts you no matter which door someone uses.
Remember:
– Check chime and transformer compatibility first
– Wire both doorbells to the same chime (in parallel if needed)
– Label everything clearly
– Test thoroughly
– Use the Nest app to customize alerts
Whether you’re upgrading an old system or building a new one, this setup gives you peace of mind and modern convenience. Now, when the chime rings, you’ll know someone’s at the door—and with the app, you’ll know exactly which one.
Welcome to the future of home security.