Video entry systems, also known as video intercoms, have become a standard solution for many residential and commercial buildings. Giving the internal residents the ability to see and speak to visitors before granting them access to the building improves both security and safety. To get the most value and the best reliability from your video intercom, regular maintenance is essential for keeping the system performing for longer. This article will explain some of the key actions you can take to improve your video entry system’s longevity. We’ll focus on the 2EASY video entry solution, though many of the tips apply to other systems, too.
Please note that if you are unsure or uncomfortable with maintenance tasks associated with your video entry system, we recommend that you contact the installer who first fitted the system to perform a professional service of the system.
Why maintenance matters
Why does maintenance matter? Can’t you just have the video intercom installed and then forget about it? Well yes, you can – but that won’t get you the maximum security, reliability, and durability that the products can deliver. A little goes a long way in maintenance terms, so it’s well worth taking the time to do.
What happens if you don’t maintain your system regularly? The risks can be serious. First of all, the system might reach a point of degradation where it fails to operate as expected. And that could mean your premises is subject to a lower level of security than you are used to. Plus, if external forces damage the products in your system, repairs or replacements could land you some hefty bills.
But if you invest a little bit of time on a monthly or quarterly basis in proactively caring for your video intercom, you’ll get so much more from it. Not only will the system be much more reliable, it will last longer and deliver greater value for the cost. And when you’re confident that your video entry system is operating and performing at its best, you benefit from the peace of mind of higher security.
Key components of a video entry system
Video entry systems consist of two primary components, plus a few ancillaries. First up is the door station. This is the panel on the outside of the building with a camera embedded into it. The panel enables visitors to initiate a call to notify residents that they wish to enter. Sometimes these have just one button, like a doorbell, or multiple labelled buttons for different apartments within the same building. Some have physical buttons, while others, like the CDV-850IP in the 2EASY range, include a user-friendly touchscreen.
Then inside the building, you’ll have a monitor. This screen usually shows the video feed from the door station, so the residents see who’s at the door. Some monitors also include speakers, with the ability to hear and/or speak to visitors.
In addition to those components, the system requires power supplies as well as network or wiring infrastructure. In some cases there might be additional components too, such as the CDV-RLC in the 2EASY range. This DIN-rail mounted module adds a second lock output to the video intercom system.
Maintenance tips for longevity and reliability
Regular cleaning
Make sure the camera lens on the door station and any screens are kept free of dust, dirt, and moisture. This helps to ensure that they operate correctly and prolongs the life of the products. Always use non-abrasive materials to clean your devices.
Check connections
Loose connections might mean unreliable operation or even no operation at all. Checking on wiring regularly to ensure connections are solid and stable gives you peace of mind that everything is working as expected. If your video intercom is an IP-based system, like 2EASY IP, then also check network connections for strength and stability.
Firmware and software updates
Make sure your products are up-to-date with the latest versions to ensure full compatibility. If you are using an app, such as the VDP Connect app for 2EASY, then check that you have downloaded the latest version of the app. Keeping everything up-to-date improves security and gives you all the latest features in your system.
Periodic testing
On a regular basis, it’s advisable to check the full functionality of the system. Is the audio clear during calls? Is the video footage as sharp as expected? Do all the buttons work? Is the touchscreen responsive? If you’ve integrated an access control solution, does it do what you expect it to do?
A quick check every month may help you to identify issues or risks sooner and rectify them to ensure good operation. We also recommend checking the system’s functionality after a power cut or electrical storm, which both may affect components.
Environmental protection
The thing about front doors is they tend to be on the outside of a building! Which means components of a video entry system such as the door station are often installed outdoors. And that means they’re exposed to the elements. Any external units should be adequately protected from both the weather and potential vandalism, and regularly checked for ingress of water or damage.
Professional servicing
If you’re not sure about maintenance for your video entry system, or you think a more in-depth check is required, then contact the installer who fitted the system. They know your building, your wiring or network, and the products they installed.
Conclusion
Video entry systems deliver a simple and effective method of controlling entry to both residential and commercial properties. 2EASY video entry offers both a wired and an IP version, specially designed for a combination of optimal performance and low maintenance ownership. However, that doesn’t mean no maintenance at all! Just a few routine checks and actions goes a long way to improving the efficiency and longevity of the system.
Always consult your installer for system-specific advice in your building.
For more information about 2EASY, visit our website.
