Is Your Fermax Door Entry Panel Hard to Mount?
Fermax is a leading name in door entry systems, but their robust, often modular panels require a precise and secure installation that can be challenging. If you're finding it hard to mount your Fermax panel, whether it's cutting the wall for the flush-box or assembling the modules, you're not alone. This guide provides expert, step-by-step instructions to navigate the difficulties and achieve a professional, solid installation.
This guide is written in British English, offering an empathetic and authoritative tone to help you succeed.
Common Difficulties in Mounting Fermax Panels
The 'hard to mount' description usually comes from one of the following challenges. Identifying your specific problem is the first step to solving it.
- Cutting a clean, accurately-sized hole in the wall for the flush-mount box.
- Securely fixing the flush-mount box into the wall so it is perfectly level and stable.
- Assembling the various modules (camera, speaker, buttons) into the panel frame correctly.
- Understanding the wiring connections for the specific Fermax system (e.g., DUOX, VDS).
- The final panel does not sit perfectly flush and aligned with the wall surface.
- Preventing water ingress on panels that are exposed to outdoor weather.
A Step-by-Step Guide to a Successful Fermax Installation
The key to mounting a Fermax panel is patience and precision, especially during the preparation phase.
1. Preparing the Wall and Flush-Mount Box
This is the most physically demanding and critical part of the installation.
- Measure and Mark: The standard mounting height for a Fermax video panel camera is 1.65 metres. Use the flush-box itself as a template to mark the exact cutting outline on the wall with a pencil and spirit level. Double-check your measurements.
- Cut the Recess: The tool depends on the wall. For brick or blockwork, use an angle grinder with a diamond blade to cut the outline, then a hammer and chisel or a small breaker to remove the material inside. This is a dusty job; wear appropriate PPE.
- Install the Flush-Box:
- Run your system cables into the recess and through the back of the box.
- Prepare a relatively stiff sand and cement mortar mix.
- Apply mortar to the back and sides of the recess.
- Push the flush-box firmly into the mortar, ensuring its front edge is perfectly level and will be flush with the finished wall surface (e.g., plaster or render).
- Fill all gaps around the box with more mortar and clean off any excess. Allow this to cure completely (at least 24 hours).
2. Assembling the Panel and Wiring
While the mortar is setting, you can prepare the panel itself.
- Assemble Modules: Fermax panels are often modular. Carefully click the required modules (camera, call buttons, keypad, etc.) into the main supporting frame according to the instructions. They are held in place by plastic tabs.
- Connect Module Jumpers: Use the small supplied cables to link the modules together if required.
- Connect System Wires: Once the box is set, connect the main system wires (e.g., the DUOX 2-wire bus) to the terminals on the back of the primary module (usually the speaker or camera). Ensure the connections are tight.
3. Final Mounting and Sealing
This is the final step to secure your panel.
- Fasten the Panel: Carefully place the assembled panel into the flush-box and secure it using the provided screws. It should be a snug fit.
- Attach Faceplate: Clip or screw on the final decorative faceplate (e.g., the Cityline or Skyline frame).
- Weatherproof: To protect against rain, apply a neat bead of clear silicone sealant around the top and sides where the panel meets the wall. Crucially, leave the bottom edge open to allow for drainage of any condensation. Using a Fermax-branded rain shield is also highly recommended for maximum protection.
Tackling the wall preparation methodically is the key to overcoming the difficulty of mounting a Fermax panel.