Setup Guide
Get Up and Running in 5 Minutes
Follow these simple steps to set up your HouseCall. No tools or technicians needed.
What's Included
Everything in the Box
Your HouseCall Starter Bundle includes everything you need to get started.
HouseCall Device
Main unit — SIM card pre-installed
Battery
Pull tab to activate before first use
External Antenna
Must be attached before use — keep upright
Power Adapter
Standard U.S. wall plug included
Quick-Start Guide
Illustrated step-by-step instructions
ⓘ A standard RJ-11 phone cable is required to connect your home phone but is not included in the box.
Step-by-Step
Setup Instructions
Follow these steps in order. Setup typically takes under 5 minutes.
Watch the Setup Video
Read transcript of the setup video
- 0:00 — Remove the HouseCall device, battery, external antenna, power adapter, and quick-start guide from the box.
- 0:12 — Locate the small plastic battery tab and pull it completely out to activate the battery.
- 0:22 — Screw the external antenna onto the antenna port on the back of the device. Hand-tighten and position it upright.
- 0:35 — Connect the power adapter and plug into a wall outlet. Allow approximately 3 hours to fully charge before first use.
- 0:48 — Wait for the signal indicator light to become solid, indicating the device has connected to the network (1–2 minutes).
- 1:00 — Plug one end of a standard RJ-11 phone cable (not included) into the PHONE port on HouseCall, and the other end into your home phone.
- 1:15 — Pick up your home phone handset and listen for a dial tone to confirm setup is complete.
- 1:25 — Optionally dial 1 from your home phone to set up voicemail and record your greeting.
1
Unbox & Inspect
Remove the HouseCall device, battery, external antenna, power adapter, and setup guide from the box. Lay them out on a flat surface and confirm all items are present before starting. Note: The SIM card is already installed — no SIM setup is needed.
Tip: Keep the original packaging in case you need to return or exchange the device.
2
Pull the Battery Tab
Locate the small plastic pull tab on the battery and remove it completely. The device will not power on if this tab is still in place. Confirm the battery is fully seated before continuing.
⚠ Important: This is one of the most common setup issues. If your device won't turn on, this is the first thing to check.
3
Attach the Antenna
Screw the external antenna onto the antenna port on the back of the HouseCall device. Hand-tighten until snug — do not overtighten. Once attached, position the antenna straight up for the best signal.
Tip: Always keep the antenna in a vertical, upright position. Folding or tilting it can noticeably reduce signal quality.
4
Charge Before First Use
Connect the power adapter to the HouseCall device and plug it into a standard wall outlet. Allow the device to fully charge before first use — this typically takes about 3 hours. The device can be used while plugged in.
Tip: A full initial charge ensures the built-in battery backup is ready in the event of a power outage.
Wall Outlet
→
Power Adapter
→
HouseCall
5
Wait for Signal
The indicator light on the front of the device will flash while it searches for a signal. Wait until the light shows a solid signal before connecting your phone. This usually takes 1–2 minutes.
Tip: Place the device near a window or on a higher floor for the best signal.
6
Connect Your Home Phone
Your home phone must be plugged into one of the two phone jacks on the device. Plug one end of a standard phone cable (RJ-11, not included) into a PHONE port on HouseCall, and the other end into your home phone or the base of your cordless phone system.
Tip: HouseCall has two phone jacks, so you can connect two phones directly to the device.
HouseCall
→
Phone Cable
→
Your Home Phone
7
Make a Test Call
Pick up your phone handset. You should hear a clear dial tone. Dial a number to make a test call. If the call connects clearly, setup is complete!
Tip: Try calling 611 to reach Consumer Cellular customer service, or call a friend or family member.
8
Set Up Voicemail (Optional)
To set up your voicemail, dial 1 from your home phone and follow the prompts to record your greeting and set a PIN. Voicemail is included with your plan at no extra charge.
Having Issues?
Troubleshooting
Most issues can be resolved in minutes. Here are the most common fixes.
No dial tone
Check power connection. Ensure the phone cable is firmly connected to both HouseCall and your phone. Restart HouseCall by unplugging for 30 seconds.
Red (●) signal light / no signal
Move HouseCall closer to a window or exterior wall. Try a higher floor if available. Check consumercellular.com/coverage for your address.
Static or poor audio
Try repositioning HouseCall for a stronger signal. Check the phone cable for damage and try a replacement cable if available.
Calls dropping
This is usually a signal issue. Move HouseCall to improve signal strength. If the problem persists, call support at 1-800-297-0954.
Still need help?
Our U.S.-based support team is available 7 days a week.
Ready to Order?
Get the HouseCall Starter Bundle — device + 3 months of service for just $74.95**.
Order Now — $74.95**