Finding Your Aiphone Intercom Hard to Mount?
Aiphone intercoms are robust and reliable systems, but their installation requires a degree of precision. If you're finding it hard to mount your Aiphone door station or master station, this troubleshooting guide is designed to help you overcome the common hurdles. A secure and flush mount is not just for aesthetics; it's essential for the system's longevity and weather resistance.
This guide will focus on the physical installation challenges, from fitting the backbox to securing the main unit for a professional and durable finish.
## Why Aiphone Mounting Can Be Tricky
Unlike a simple doorbell, Aiphone systems are more complex, and their mounting reflects this. Here are some of the primary reasons you might be facing difficulties:
- Precise Fit: Aiphone units are designed with tight tolerances to ensure a weatherproof seal. This means backboxes must be installed perfectly flush and level.
- Cable Management: The space behind the unit is limited. A bundle of untidy wires can easily prevent the station from seating correctly.
- Specific Hardware: Aiphone systems often require the use of their own proprietary backboxes and security screws, which are not interchangeable with standard hardware.
- Wall Surface: Uneven surfaces like brick or stone can make it challenging to achieve a flush and stable installation without proper preparation.
## Step-by-Step Guide to a Perfect Aiphone Installation
Let's break down the process to address and solve these mounting challenges.
### 1. Start with the Backbox
The backbox is the foundation of your installation. Getting this right is half the battle.
- Choose the Right Box: Use the official Aiphone backbox designed for your model. There are different versions for flush-mounting (inside the wall) and surface-mounting (on top of the wall).
- Flush Mounting: When cutting a hole for a flush-mount box, be precise. The box must be installed so its front edge is perfectly level with the finished wall surface. If it's too deep or too shallow, the main unit will not fit correctly.
- Surface Mounting: When installing a surface-mount box, use a spirit level to ensure it is perfectly straight before you drill the fixing holes.
- Secure Firmly: Make sure the backbox is securely fixed to the wall and does not move at all.
### 2. Manage Your Wiring
Neat wiring is crucial for a flush fit.
- Feed Cables Through: Route all necessary cables through the designated opening in the backbox.
- Keep it Tidy: Before connecting the wires to the unit, organise them. Use small cable ties if necessary. You want to avoid a large "ball" of wire directly behind the unit.
- Leave Some Slack: Leave just enough slack to comfortably connect the wires to the terminals, but not so much that it's difficult to tuck them away into the backbox.
### 3. Prepare the Wall Surface
For outdoor stations, a good seal is vital.
- Clean the Area: Ensure the wall surface around the backbox is clean and dry.
- Use Gaskets: If your Aiphone model comes with a rubber or foam gasket, ensure it is correctly placed before you offer the unit up to the backbox.
- Sealant for Uneven Surfaces: If you are mounting on a rough surface like stone or brick, consider applying a thin bead of non-setting, outdoor-grade silicone sealant to the back of the mounting frame. This will fill any small gaps and prevent water from getting behind the unit.
### 4. Mount the Main Unit
This is the final step.
- Connect Wires: Carefully connect the wires to the correct terminals on the back of the Aiphone station.
- Tuck and Fit: Gently tuck the organised wires back into the backbox as you guide the main unit into place. It should engage with the backbox smoothly. If you feel resistance, don't force it. Pull it back and check for trapped wires.
- Secure It: Use the provided screws to fasten the unit to the backbox. Tighten them evenly. Finally, install the tamper-resistant security screw, if your model has one, using the supplied tool.