How to fix no dial tone or sound on Analog phone

Modified on Tue, 14 Apr at 9:28 AM

If your analog phone line has no dial tone, follow the troubleshooting steps below to identify and resolve the issue. This article applies to traditional analog phone lines only, not VoIP phones.

1. Check your broadband or line status

Before checking your phone, make sure your broadband or phone service is active. If there is an outage or service problem, your phone may not produce a dial tone. Check the System statuses and planned maintenance page for any known issues.

2. Check your sockets

Identify how many phone sockets are on your premises.
Test each socket individually to check if a dial tone is present.

This helps identify whether the issue is with a particular socket or your internal wiring. See What are master sockets?

3. Test another handset

Try using a different handset in the same socket.
If a dial tone is present with the new handset, the original handset may be faulty.

4. Test another phone cable

Try using a different phone cable.
Ensure both ends are securely connected.
If a dial tone returns, the original cable may need replacing.

5. Perform a dial back test

Lift the handset.
Dial 17070.
Listen for the automated response to check if the line is active.

6. Test without the microfilter

If your phone line uses a microfilter, remove it and test the line directly.
If a dial tone returns, the microfilter may be faulty and needs replacing.
Reconnect the microfilter and test again to confirm.

See What are microfilters and how to use them.

If the issue continues after following all of the above steps, contact the bOnline support team through live chat.

Consider upgrading to VoIP

Analog phone lines are being phased out across the UK. If you are experiencing ongoing issues with your analog line, upgrading to a bOnline VoIP phone system gives you more reliable call quality, flexible call management features, and the ability to make and receive calls from anywhere using the bOnline mobile and desktop apps. To discuss your upgrade options, contact the bOnline loyalty team through the sales live chat.