8 Benefits of an Intercom System
How Does an Intercom System Work?
An intercom (intercommunication device) is a type of stand-alone communication tool. It can be used in a residential property, apartment building, or a commercial premises.
A two-way communication device transmits and receives audio communications. In other words, it allows someone who’s speaking into a microphone to be heard by people in other parts of the building through a speaker. Thanks to technology some systems also feature a video function which allow you to see the person that you’re talking to.
In the past intercom systems were considered to be a basic security tool but they’ve come a long way and are quite sophisticated these days. They’re also available in a wide range of styles to fit anyone’s unique needs and preferences.
8 Security Benefits of an Intercom System
Commonly used in blocks of flats and multi-office buildings we’ll take a look below at how any premises can benefit from an intercom system and get into the specifics of how they provide increased security of your home or business. Here are some of the top reasons why you might want to purchase an intercom system:
A primary benefit of having an intercom system for home and business use is the fact that they make it easier for those inside to screen visitors. An intercom system helps you to ensure you’re only allowing people who belong there to enter your home or business.
Whilst Intercom systems make visitor screening easier, they also enhance general communication making everything more convenient. You don’t have to get up to answer the door or let someone into your office when you have an intercom in place. All you have to do is push a button or two to see who’s there and let them in or direct them elsewhere.
For those who want to keep an eye on their children more easily, intercoms are a great investment. They’re worth considering both for those who need to monitor kids while they’re in a different part of the house and those who want to check in on their kids when they’re out of the home entirely. Depending on the type of intercom you purchase, you can communicate with your children easily through video and audio to ensure everything is okay even when you’re not right there with them.
Many intercoms integrate easily with existing security equipment that you might already have at your home or office. You don’t need to buy a whole new system to enjoy the benefits of an intercom.
The presence of an intercom system, especially when it’s accompanied by other security equipment, can deter criminals from trying to break into your home or office building. If they see that you have devices in place that could potentially catch them in the act, they’re going to be less inclined to try and victimise you and your family or business. This benefit, alone, is reason enough for lots of people to purchase an intercom.
For those who want to stay comfortable while still keeping their home safe and engaging with family members or visitors, intercoms are excellent tools.
Think of an elderly individual, for example, who has a hard time getting up and getting to the door. An intercom allows them to talk to those who are waiting and either let them in or send them away without having to stand up, walk to the door, and potentially injure themselves.
Busy people can benefit from intercoms, too. If you’re in the middle of a project and don’t want to abandon it to get to the door, you can use the intercom to see who’s there and find out what they want or need.
The presence of an intercom can increase the resale value of your home. People want to live in places that are safe, after all. If you invest in tools that increase the security of your home now (and save future buyers from having to purchase the equipment themselves), you can likely fetch a higher price than you would have otherwise.
You can use an intercom to make announcements to your whole office quickly and easily. With the push of a button, you can say that you need to say, and let people get back to work.
This is also a nice feature to have in the home. If you have family members spread out through the whole house or outbuildings, you can use the intercom to let them know that dinner’s ready, it’s time to leave, etc.
Considering an Intercom system?
Decide Between Video and Audio-Only
In addition to choosing between different types of intercoms, you’ll also want to think about whether you want to be able to see the people you’re communicating with or if you’re comfortable with audio-only.
Many people like the added security and peace of mind that intercoms with video capabilities provide them. However, video-powered systems in most cases have a higher price tag than audio-only ones.
Read Reviews
Always check reviews for a system, as well as the installation company, before you purchase. This helps you get an idea of how satisfied customers generally are after working with a particular seller. It also reduces your chances of having to deal with any unpleasant surprises later.
Ask About Ease of Use
Ideally, your intercom system will be easy to use and integrate alongside your existing security equipment (if you have any). Be sure to ask about this when you’re considering different types of intercoms to ensure you’re purchasing a product that you and your family or business will actually benefit from after it’s installed.
Stay Within Your Budget
Finally, don’t forget to think about the price. When you work with a reputable intercom and security system installer, they’ll be able to provide you with a free quote before you commit to anything (be wary of sellers that charge you for a quote or don’t give you clear prices). This will help you get an idea of how much you’ll be spending so you can budget appropriately.