How to Remove or Replace an Old Intercom System

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Does your home security system include an intercom? While an intercom adds an extra layer of protection for you and your family, the technology has come a long way in a short time. If you still have an old intercom system in your home or business, it’s probably not meeting your current security needs. 

A broken intercom is a common household electrical problem, just like ceiling fans, fire alarms and doorbells, which can be an eyesore that serves no real purpose — other than detracting from the appearance of your property. Continue reading to learn some of our home intercom replacement ideas!

Table of Contents

• Differences Between Wired and Wireless Intercom Systems
• How Long Do Intercom Systems Last?
• What Can You Do With an Old House Intercom System?
  • Hide It
  • Remove It
  • Replace It
• How to Remove an Old Intercom System From a House or Business
  • 1.Determine Your System Type
  • Remove Your Main Unit
  • Safety Considerations

1. Home Intercom System Replacement Ideas
2. How to Install An Intercom System for Businesses and Homes
3. Home Intercom System Replacement in Westchester County, New York

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Differences Between Wired and Wireless Intercom Systems

Removing a house intercom system depends largely on whether the unit is wired or wireless. Wired systems are traditionally known for their reliability and security because they are effective against interference and hacking. They typically require professional installation that involves cables inside walls, which can be costly and time-consuming. Once installed, they require minimal maintenance or upkeep.

Wireless intercom systems offer greater flexibility and portability as they do not need extensive wiring. These features make them faster and more straightforward to install, which is ideal for retrofitting or upgrading existing buildings. While wired systems may have higher upfront costs, wireless systems could incur long-term expenses for battery replacements or charging needs. Wired systems typically provide better audio quality with minimal interference, while wireless systems may be susceptible to disruptions.

Adding more units to a wired system can be challenging and requires additional wiring, whereas wireless systems are generally easier to scale up without extensive installation. When deciding between wired and wireless intercom systems, homeowners or business owners should consider the following: 

• The property type
• Budget
• Security requirements
• Ease of installation
• Maintenance considerations
• Scalability needs
• Potential sources of interference

How Long Do Intercom Systems Last?

Wired intercom systems are known for longevity, often lasting for decades with minimal maintenance. The physical wiring and components in modern wired systems are durable and less prone to wear and tear. With proper installation and care, wired intercom systems can provide reliable service for many years.

The life span of wireless intercom systems can vary depending on factors such as usage patterns, battery quality and environmental conditions. Wireless systems may require more frequent maintenance due to battery replacements or recharging needs. While technological advancements have improved the durability of wireless intercom systems, they may not last as long as their wired counterparts.

What Can You Do With an Old House Intercom System?

Your options for dealing with a broken or outdated intercom include the following:

Hide It

Keeping in mind the adage, “out of sight, out of mind,” the easiest, least costly and least time-consuming approach to dealing with an old intercom is to remove it from sight. You could conceal it with a hutch or picture, or if you’re feeling ambitious, you could paint over it so it blends with the rest of the room’s décor. 

If your system consists of multiple stations, finding the best concealment solution for each one can pose a more significant challenge. While hiding your intercom will resolve the visibility issue, it won’t offer much protection.

Remove It

Another option is to physically remove the intercom system. Depending on the type of system, this can be a simple or much more complicated endeavor. For instance, if your intercom is the kind that plugs into a wall or operates via battery power, you could probably handle the task yourself, even if you have little technical expertise. 

A hardwired intercom poses a greater challenge, as the unit is likely integrated with your home’s electrical circuitry.

Replace It

If you still wish to enjoy a home intercom’s security benefits, you can choose to replace your intercom system by upgrading to a more technologically advanced system. Replacing a home’s doorbell or existing intercom system with a video intercom is a trend, picking up some serious steam, especially in urban areas. The latest products include innovative features, such as the combination of an audio component with live video streaming, enabling you to see and hear who is at your door. 

If you’re not familiar with the inner workings of a modern intercom system, consider hiring a professional to install it for you. Our trained experts are happy to help you with your home intercom system replacement.

How to Remove an Old Intercom System From a House or Business

To remove your intercom system, you can follow several simple steps. The process will be different depending on the type of intercom system you have. To remove your system and any additional units, you can follow these steps:

1. Determine Your System Type

If you decide to remove your intercom system, you must first determine the system type. As mentioned, if you have a wireless intercom security system such as an AC or battery-powered system, the process involves unplugging the unit or removing the battery. In the latter situation, if taking out the battery does not disarm the intercom system, then you likely have a hardwired system requiring additional removal steps, which you’ll need a licensed electrician to complete.

2. Remove Your Main Unit

First, if your system is hardwired, make sure the power is shut off. To do so, turn the power off on the breaker box connected to the room you are working in. Use a voltage meter to touch the wires behind the faceplate to make sure the power source is off.

Next, locate the screws that secure the mounting section of the main unit to the wall and remove them. This is all you will need to do for a plug-in or battery-operated unit. A hardwired system will require some extra steps. 

A hardwired system’s faceplate will remain slightly attached to the wall, with wires extending into the wall behind the mounting section of the unit. Disconnect these wires from the circuit breaker. Untwist the wires or use pliers to cut them where they attach to the main unit. You can now remove the mounting bracket and faceplate. A small hole and the cut wires will remain on the wall. 

Safety Considerations

During the removal process of a wired or wireless intercom system, it is crucial to prioritize safety. In addition to turning off the power, consider wearing protective gear like gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from potential injuries. 

Identify and label wiring connections carefully for wired systems before disconnecting them. Using the correct tools for the job helps avoid damaging components or risking injury. Work methodically, removing components one at a time in an organized manner. Secure loose wires with electrical tape to prevent accidental contact with live circuits. 

Dispose of old electrical components responsibly according to local regulations. If you need help with any step or encounter complex wiring, consult a professional company like Lippolis Electric to ensure a safe removal process.

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Home Intercom System Replacement Ideas

You have numerous choices if you choose to replace or convert an old intercom system. Examples include:

• Intercom starter kit: If you want to upgrade or replace your current intercom and are happy with nothing more than a basic “no-frills” system that provides front-door security, an intercom starter kit consisting of a master station, weatherproof door station and AC transformer can provide a cost-effective, easy-to-install solution.
• Wireless intercom with video: If you want the additional security an intercom with video can offer, a wireless system will “digitize” your door’s peephole. You’ll be able to view live video feeds from various locations inside your home.
• Touchscreen video intercom: A touchscreen video intercom enables you to receive video at multiple monitor screens so you can see your visitors and buzz them in just by touching the screen. Many of these systems also include multiple alarm inputs that can be triggered to set off an alarm if an intruder attempts to enter your home.
• Wireless DVR security camera with intercom: This type of system includes intercoms connected to indoor/outdoor cameras that provide images to an LCD monitor or even a television set. Many feature motion detection capabilities that will trigger the cameras to begin recording when they detect movement.
• Replace an intercom system with speakers: If you’re an audiophile, replacing your old intercom system with high-quality speakers connected to a central sound system will allow you to enjoy your favorite music in targeted areas of your home.

How to Install An Intercom System for Businesses and Homes

A traditional system will be hardwired into existing electrical circuitry. The number of substations needed will determine the project’s complexity, but the basic steps for installation are:

• Cut holes for the master station
• Cut holes for substations
• Connect the master station
• Run cable between the master station and substations
• Connect substations
• Complete master state install
• Test the system

Home Intercom System Replacement in Westchester County, New York

Whether you’re looking to remove or replace an old intercom system in your house or business, the experts at Lippolis Electric can provide an effective, affordable solution. We’ve been proudly serving the electrical needs of homeowners in Westchester, Putnam and Duchess Counties for more than 30 years. 

Intercom systems are one of our specialties. You can count on us to remove an outdated or broken intercom or convert an old intercom system to a state-of-the-art model that will transform your home security process. We can also offer practical home intercom replacement ideas.

Our qualified technicians perform a wide range of electrical services to help you complete projects safely and efficiently. No job is too big or too small. Contact Lippolis Electric to explore all your home intercom system options and to receive a free project estimate today.