Is Your Comelit Intercom Not Weatherproof? A Protection Guide
Comelit video intercoms and door entry systems are built to be robust and durable, designed to withstand the rigours of outdoor installation. They come with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating, which specifies their resistance to elements like dust and water. However, under certain conditions, you might find that your unit is letting in moisture, which can lead to serious performance issues and permanent damage.
This guide will help you identify the signs that your Comelit unit is not as weatherproof as it should be and provide practical steps to enhance its protection against the British weather.
## Signs of a Weatherproofing Problem
Water ingress doesn't always mean your device will be dripping wet. The signs can be subtle at first. Keep an eye out for these symptoms, especially after a period of rain.
- Condensation: The most obvious sign is moisture or fog appearing behind the camera lens or any clear plastic screen on the unit.
- Intermittent Functionality: The device may start behaving erratically. This can include crackling audio, buttons that don't respond, or the camera feed cutting out. These issues often worsen in damp conditions.
- Physical Water Marks: You might see streaks or water trickling down from the seams of the unit's housing.
- Corrosion: Check the mounting screws and any visible metal parts for signs of rust or corrosion. This indicates long-term exposure to moisture.
- Water Inside the Housing: In severe cases, opening the unit (by a qualified technician) may reveal visible water droplets or a high tide mark on the internal circuit board.
## Common Causes of Failed Weatherproofing
Even a high-IP-rated device can be vulnerable if not installed correctly.
### 1. Improper Installation
This is the leading cause of weatherproofing failure. If the unit is not mounted flush against a flat surface, tiny gaps can be left for water to penetrate.
- Uneven Surfaces: Mounting on rough brickwork or an uneven wall without proper sealing can create channels for rainwater.
- Incorrect Gasket Use: The rubber or foam gasket supplied with the Comelit unit is crucial. It must be seated correctly and not be pinched, twisted, or damaged during installation.
### 2. Damaged Housing
A small crack in the casing can compromise the entire unit's integrity. This can happen from accidental impact, vandalism, or even overtightening screws during installation, which can stress the plastic.
### 3. Degraded Seals
Over many years, the rubber seals and gaskets that keep water out can degrade due to exposure to UV sunlight and extreme temperatures. They can become brittle, shrink, and lose their effectiveness.
## How to Improve Your Comelit's Weather Protection
If you suspect your unit is vulnerable, here are some steps you can take to bolster its defences.
### Check the Gasket and Mounting
First, inspect the installation. Ensure the unit is sitting securely and flush against the wall. If you can see gaps, the mounting may need to be adjusted. Check the condition of the rubber gasket if it is visible. If it looks worn or damaged, it may need replacing.
### Apply an External Sealant (Correctly)
For an extra layer of protection, you can apply a bead of clear, outdoor-grade silicone sealant. However, the application method is critical.
- Choose the right product: Use a high-quality, weatherproof, and UV-resistant silicone sealant.
- Apply carefully: Apply a neat, continuous bead of sealant along the top and the two vertical sides where the Comelit unit's housing meets the mounting surface.
- LEAVE THE BOTTOM OPEN: This is the most important step. Do not put any sealant along the bottom edge. This allows any moisture or condensation that naturally forms inside the unit to drain out. Sealing the bottom will trap moisture and cause more damage.
### Consider a Weather Hood or Shield
For units that are very exposed to driving rain, consider installing a dedicated weather shield or rain hood. Comelit and third-party manufacturers offer these accessories, which act as a small roof over the intercom unit, providing significant extra protection from direct rainfall.
If your device has already suffered from significant water ingress, it's best to contact a professional installer for an assessment. They can check the internal components for damage and ensure the unit is re-installed with a perfect, weatherproof seal.