Fermax Water Damage: Repair and Prevention Guide
A Fermax door entry system is built to be robust, but direct or prolonged exposure to water can cause serious damage. Whether from heavy rain, a sprinkler system, or accidental spillage, water ingress can lead to malfunctions and costly repairs. This guide explains what to do if your Fermax intercom suffers water damage and how you can prevent it from happening in the first place.
Immediate Steps to Take After Water Exposure
If you suspect your Fermax unit has been exposed to water, time is of the essence. Acting quickly can prevent permanent damage.
- Disconnect Power Immediately: This is the most critical step. Water and electricity do not mix. Turn off the power to the intercom system from the circuit breaker to prevent short circuits that can fry the internal components.
- Dry the Exterior: Use a soft, absorbent cloth to carefully wipe down the outside of the unit. Remove as much surface water as possible.
- Do NOT Power It On: Resist the temptation to turn the system back on to see if it works. This can cause irreversible damage if there is still moisture inside.
Troubleshooting a Water-Damaged Fermax System
Once the immediate steps are taken, you can assess the situation.
1. Assess the Damage
Look for clear signs of water damage:
- No Power: The unit is completely unresponsive.
- Malfunctioning Audio/Video: You hear crackling sounds, or the video feed is foggy, distorted, or has condensation behind the lens.
- Unresponsive Buttons: The call buttons or keypad are sticky or do not register when pressed.
- Visible Corrosion: You can see green or white residue on the electrical connectors or circuit board (if visible).
2. Drying the Unit Internally
For a chance at recovery, the internal components must be completely dry.
- Ventilation is Key: If you are comfortable and it does not void your warranty, you may consider carefully opening the outdoor station's housing to promote air circulation.
- Be Patient: Place the unit (or its components) in a dry, well-ventilated room. Aiming a small fan at it can help circulate air and speed up the drying process.
- Allow Ample Time: Let the unit dry for at least 48 to 72 hours. Do not rush this process.
Note: We do not recommend using rice. While a popular myth, fine rice dust can get inside the unit and cause more problems. Air drying is a safer method.
3. Seeking Professional Repair
If the unit does not function correctly after being thoroughly dried, it likely has sustained permanent damage to the circuit board or other components. At this point, it is best to contact a certified Fermax installer or technician. They have the diagnostic tools and replacement parts to professionally repair the system.
How to Prevent Future Water Damage
Prevention is always better than a cure. Protect your investment with these measures.
- Ensure Proper Installation: Make sure the intercom was installed using all the manufacturer-provided seals, gaskets, and weather-stripping. A tight seal is crucial.
- Use a Rain Shield: For installations in locations with heavy, driving rain, install a protective rain hood or weather shield over the outdoor station. Fermax and third-party manufacturers offer various models.
- Regular Inspections: Periodically check the seals and housing of your outdoor unit for any signs of cracking, brittleness, or wear. Replace any degraded components to maintain a watertight seal.
- Check Drainage: Ensure the area around the unit has proper drainage so that water does not pool around the installation.
By taking these preventative steps, you can significantly prolong the life of your Fermax door entry system and ensure its reliable operation, rain or shine.