1 Gang Doorbell - Carbon Fibre

Press it and the bell sounds; let go and the rocker springs straight back, which is exactly what a doorbell push should do. This is a retractive one gang plate finished in carbon fibre, a dark woven texture you can feel under a fingertip, with chrome brightwork on the rocker for contrast. The screwless front keeps the face clean, an unbroken square against the wall. The rocker itself is small and firm under the thumb, easy to find in the dark.

It belongs at a front or back door, on the inside face of the wall, wired to a chime elsewhere in the house. We reach for it in hallways done in charcoal, graphite or deep grey, where a white plate would jump out, and it sits happily beside black ironmongery and dark handles. It runs on a standard household supply and is meant for indoor positions, so keep it under cover rather than out on an exposed porch wall. It suits anyone swapping out a tired plastic bell push during a refit, and it is a small change that tends to get noticed.

The plate is moulded polycarbonate with metal within, double insulated, and made to the British standard for household switches. Give the textured face an occasional going over with a dry microfibre cloth; if fingerprints build up beside the door, a cloth barely damp will lift them, and nothing stronger, since solvents and cream cleaners will dull the texture. It carries a ten year warranty. We would pair it with the same carbon fibre finish on nearby switches so the door area looks of a piece, and it is a quiet way to add interest to a plain hallway.

Is this a retractive switch?

Yes. The rocker is momentary, so it makes contact only while you hold it and returns to rest as soon as you release it, which is what a bell or chime needs.

What is included?

One doorbell push, supplied on its own. The chime or bell unit it operates is a separate item.

How big is the plate?

The face is 88mm square and the body sits 25mm deep behind it.

What is the finish like to touch?

Carbon fibre is a textured finish rather than a smooth gloss, with a fine woven weave and a chrome rocker detail. It hides marks better than a flat painted plate.

How should I clean it?

Dry dusting is usually enough. For sticky marks around a busy door, wring a cloth out well and wipe, then dry off. Keep polishes, solvents and abrasive creams away from the texture.

What supply and standards does it work to?

It is rated for 220 to 250V mains at 50/60Hz and made to BS EN 60669, with UKCA and CE marking. Indoor use only.