Signs Your Intercom System Needs Repair: What to Look For
Intercom systems are compulsory in the current world for security purposes and communication especially in the homes, flats, and other commercial buildings.
They offer easy control of access, which means that interaction can be made with other zones or with the outsiders at the entrances.
But like any other technologically driven product, intercom systems are not immune to decay and Thus, like any other electronic device, intercom systems need regular servicing and sometimes replacement of some of their parts.
It is therefore important to be able to identify the signs that point towards the failure of the intercom system so that it can be attended to and don’t hamper its proper functioning and security.
Here are some key signs that your intercom system may need repair:
1. Distorted Sound Quality
Some of the most common signs of an intercom system in need of repair include the following: A reduced sound quality.
If you or any of your visitors are having problems with the intercom and the sound is static, crackling or distorted, then there is a problem.
The issue could be attributed to; wrong connection of wires, damaged speakers or even problems with the microphone.
Not attending to the issue of low sound quality may render the intercom system very unreliable thus limiting its usefulness in communication.
2. Intermittent or No Sound
If the intercom system is making some sound at random intervals or no sound at all then it is most probably due to some other problem.
This could be attributed to wiring being burnt, some parts having developed faults or there being electrical issues within the system.
Stuttering sound can be quite annoying since it may cause disturbance to conversation between residents or workers.
When there is no sound at all it can mean that the system has totally failed and needs repair or replacement as soon as possible.
3. Difficulty in Controlling Door or Gate Access
A two-way system with an intercom system to control access to doors or gates requires a person to authenticate the identity of the visitor to allow access remotely.
If you find out that the door or the gate does not open when told to by the intercom system this could be as a result of a fault.
The problem could be attributed to a defective relay switch, a problem with the intercom system in controlling the access control system or wiring problems.
In such cases, it becomes very important to get the system repaired at the earliest so as to avoid any breach of security.
4. No Visual Display (for Video Intercoms)
Video intercom systems enable viewers to know who is at the door before letting him or her in, which is quite helpful.
Some of the common problems that may be exhibited by the video display of your intercom system include flickering, no display or blurred images which may point towards a problem with either the camera or the display unit.
It might be as a result of a defected camera lens, improper wiring connection or a fault within the video transmission path.
All problems concerning the video display should be reported as soon as possible since this is a major aspect of safety.
5. Unresponsive Controls
If you have noticed that the buttons or the touch controls on your intercom system are not working then it may be a sign of a control panel fault.
As for any device, with the course of time buttons may get jammed or the touch screen may fail to respond properly.
This may be as a result of dust accumulation, worn out buttons or internal electrical faults.
Sticky controls can be a disadvantage to the intercom system since some of the functions may becomes ineffective and may need to be fixed.
6. Power Issues
If your intercom system is troubled with frequent power failures or sometimes with fluctuation of power, then it is likely that there is something wrong with the power supply or other electrical parts of the system.
Such inconsistency in power supply can lead to the intercom system failure at the time of need thus posing a security threat.
This problem could be attributed to a defective power adapter, bad wiring connection or even a problem with the electrical wiring system of the building.
This means that in order to get a better understanding of the system’s power issues and fix them, it is necessary to turn to a professional technician.
7. Outdated Technology
Even though this is not a “repair” problem, older systems are susceptible to frequent malfunctions because of technological advancement.
If your system has become archaic and dysfunctional more often than not, it may be advisable to replace it with a new one, rather than keep on repairing it.
More recent models also have enhanced features such as high quality audio and video output, video, and connectivity with other intelligent security systems.
When to Call a Professional
As indicated above, most of the problems are technical and may be hard to identify by a layman.
It is quite common to make the situation even worse if one tries to fix the problem on his own, and in the end, pay a lot more for the repair.
In case you observe any of these signs in your intercom system it is advisable to seek the services of an intercom repair service.
They should be in a position to identify the problem, repair any part that may be faulty and check on the performance of the system.
Conclusion
An inefficient intercom system is a security threat as well as an inconvenience to your property.
Sometimes, if one is keen, he or she can be able to notice some signs that may be indicative of an impending conflict and this can be solved before it occurs.
Intercom systems are devices that are used to facilitate communication and they are required to be well maintained and repaired as often as possible to increase the life of the device and enhance its functionality.
If you experience such problems like distorted sound, unresponsive controls or power related problems, then you should consider seeking professional help.
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