Telephone Extension.

[Gingerpilot]

I've added a telephone extension to an upstairs room and I think I wired it correctly, the phone works but fails to ring when there is an incoming call. The ringer works on the main phone and it's not the hand set. Help!

[stephaniel]

It depends on the REN (ring equivalent number) of the phones you have. Most domestic lnes have a REN of 3, and many phones have a REN of one, meaning you could have up to 3 on your line, however, it depends what else you are using eg faxes etc or higher REN phones. There may not be enough power to make the phone ring. If in doubt, check with BT or whoever your phone provider is>

[Gingerpilot]

Thanks, that would make sense as I've got two other lines running off it. Can I increase my REN?

[stephaniel]

No I don't think so, but check with BT as they may me able to help.

[sft42]

Ginger you might also try to make sure that the connections in the back of the socket are secure as there are 6 wires blue green and orange then 3 more white with the same colour stripes. Only two of these carry power to the phone to make it work but the others might be loose stopping the phone ringing but allowing it to work otherwise. If this and all else fails then try a digital cordless as the quality is very good nowadays.

[joshuareil]

Did you check the phone wire you've used on the extension?