What is a Call Door Entry System?
At its core, a call door entry system—often referred to as a door phone or video intercom—is an electronic security solution that manages access to a building. It establishes a direct communication link between the entrance and the resident inside, removing the anonymity of a simple doorbell.
A typical system consists of two main components:
- The External Panel: Mounted near your front door or gate, this weatherproof unit houses a microphone, a speaker, and a call button. Most modern systems also include a high-definition video camera. When a visitor presses the button, it initiates a call to the internal unit.
- The Internal Unit (or Handset): Located inside your home, this is your control centre. It can be a wall-mounted monitor with a screen and buttons, or a telephone-style handset. From here, you can speak to the person outside, see them on the video feed, and, if you choose, press a button to remotely unlock the door or gate.
These systems can be tailored to any property, from a single-family home requiring one external panel and one internal monitor, to a multi-occupancy block of flats needing a complex network of devices. They are a significant upgrade on traditional doorbells and peepholes, offering a sophisticated, interactive way to manage your home's first line of defence.
The Benefits of Installing a Door Entry System
Investing in a professional door entry system is a practical home improvement that offers a wealth of benefits, enhancing both your security and your day-to-day life.
Enhanced Security
The primary advantage is, of course, security. The ability to visually and audibly verify the identity of a visitor before granting them access is a powerful deterrent against unsolicited callers, potential intruders, and bogus officials. You remain in complete control, deciding who you want to speak to and who you want to ignore, all from the safety of your living room. For families with children or for elderly residents, this provides invaluable protection and peace of mind.
Unmatched Convenience
Gone are the days of rushing to the door every time the bell rings. A video entry system allows you to answer the door from a central point inside your home. This is particularly useful in larger properties where the front door may be some distance away. For individuals with mobility issues, it’s a game-changing feature. Furthermore, many systems can be integrated with your smartphone, meaning you can answer your door from your garden, your workplace, or even while on holiday, giving the impression that you are always at home.
Increased Property Value
Modern security features are highly sought after by homebuyers and tenants alike. A professionally installed call door entry system is seen as a premium feature that modernises a property and signals that it is well-maintained and secure. Much like a modern kitchen or a new boiler, it's an investment that can add tangible value and appeal to your home should you ever decide to sell or let it.
Types of Call Door Entry Systems to Consider
The market offers a variety of systems, each suited to different needs and budgets. Understanding the main types will help you have a more informed conversation with your installer.
Audio Intercom Systems
This is the classic, entry-level option. Audio-only systems allow for two-way speech between the external panel and the internal handset. While they lack the visual verification of video systems, they are a robust, reliable, and cost-effective solution for securing your entrance. They are an excellent choice for flats, smaller terraced houses, or for homeowners who primarily want to screen callers without the expense of a video feed.
Video Intercom Systems
Video systems are now the most popular choice for residential properties in the UK. They include all the features of an audio system but with the crucial addition of a camera in the external panel and a screen on the internal unit. This allows you to see exactly who is at your door. Modern video systems boast high-definition colour screens, wide-angle lenses to capture a broader view, and infrared night vision for clear images even after dark.
Wired vs. Wireless Systems
This is a key technical consideration. A wired system connects the external and internal units via physical cables. This provides an exceptionally stable and reliable connection that is not susceptible to Wi-Fi dropouts or signal interference. It's the gold standard for reliability and is ideal for new builds or during a major renovation where cables can be easily hidden within walls. Retrofitting a wired system into an existing property can be more disruptive, potentially requiring cables to be chased into plasterwork or hidden in surface-mounted trunking.
A wireless system, by contrast, uses radio frequencies (often your home's Wi-Fi network) to connect the components. The major advantage is the ease and speed of installation, with minimal disruption to your home's décor. This makes it a great choice for existing properties where running cables would be difficult. The main consideration is the strength and reliability of your wireless signal between the door and the monitor's location.
IP (Internet Protocol) Door Entry Systems
IP systems are the "smart" evolution of door entry technology. They connect to your home's internet router (either by wire or Wi-Fi) and integrate seamlessly with an app on your smartphone or tablet. This means you can receive a video call from your front door wherever you are in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. You can see and speak to the visitor, and even unlock the door remotely—perfect for letting in a delivery driver or a family member who has forgotten their keys. These systems often offer extra features like recording video clips of missed callers and can be integrated with other smart home devices like CCTV and alarm systems.
