As the push for better energy efficiency in residences gathers pace ¹ across both social and private housing , now ’ s the time to introduce more sustainable solutions to your portfolio . Retrofitting wireless , GSM-based intercoms is a more environmentally friendly access control option than continually replacing outdated infrastructure . Here we outline the benefits of implementing wireless property access technology , to reduce waste and improve green credentials , while bringing important benefits to tenants and housing professionals .

A drive for more sustainable housing

With sustainability at the top of the agenda , the housing sector has mainly focused on making new builds more eco-friendly in recent years . However , it is also an opportunity to look at ways to improve existing housing stock . After all , it ’ s estimated that more than 80 % of the homes that will be needed by 2050 already exist today , according to the government ’ s recent Good Home Inquiry report . ²

Indeed , the government is starting to recognise the value of retrofitting to improve the energy efficiency of existing social housing . In fact , as part of the first wave of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund , 50 Housing Associations will receive financial help to upgrade over 20,000 homes . ³ Retrofitting the latest wireless access control technology is one way to help improve the sustainability and energy performance of existing properties . It is also a practical option for improving the tenant experience , while streamlining

administration and cutting costs for housing professionals .

Making a difference

Keeping building entry systems up to date is crucial for ensuring usability and security for residents . When devices like intercoms become faulty or obsolete , getting them back up and running again quickly is a priority . However , replacing and repairing outdated access control infrastructure isn ’ t always a straightforward job . Traditional wired intercoms , for example , often require extensive recabling , which is expensive and time-consuming to fit – particularly in larger buildings . Refitting these older models also creates a lot of waste . To give some perspective , a single wired intercom for a 20-flat building generates 200g of plastic , 300g of electronics and 400m of cables . And with over 350,000 intercom handsets

entering circulation every year , it ’ s clear there ’ s a need for a more sustainable option .

Switching to innovative wireless access control systems can help significantly reduce plastic use . With no handsets or cables required , they cut down on unnecessary waste , while having the added benefit of being quicker and easier to install . Harnessing the Global System for Mobile Communications ( or ‘ GSM ’), the same technology used to power mobile phones , wireless intercoms connect directly to residents ’ preferred digital devices or landline . This enables them to grant access to their property with just a few taps on their smart phone or landline .

What ’ s more , GSM-enabled wireless building access devices connected to secure , online remote management systems , allow housing providers to oversee property access in one centralised

, digital portal . Here , they can make changes to residents ’ details or allow external contractors to enter the building – removing the need for a site visit . Not only does this streamline time-intensive administration tasks , but also supports emissions reduction by minimising travel .

Greener options

For installers looking to advise housing providers on the right wireless intercom to suit their needs , it is also worth considering the added value that the latest technology brings . Intratone ’ s brand-new SC-03 wireless intercom has a full-colour screen that displays engaging animations and logos – for added visual appeal . While its pinhole video camera , integrated hands-free proximity reader and braille , backlit keypad helps improve both the user experience and accessibility , and reassures residents of their building

security . Plus , by connecting to Intratone ’ s secure , online management system , the SC-03 intercom provides a practical solution for housing professionals , who can oversee properties without leaving their desk .

Like all Intratone ’ s access control devices , the SC-03 intercom is wire-free , helping to ensure a quick and cost-effective setup , as well as improve housing providers ’ green credentials . With a vandal-resistant screen and innovative plug-and-play software , ongoing maintenance is also reduced – for further cost savings and efficiencies . Updating buildings with the latest technology doesn ’ t have to break the bank either ; the SC-03 has flexible monthly service fees , to suit a range of housing professionals ’ needs .

With the drive to make existing buildings more sustainable gathering momentum across the industry , it ’ s a good time for housing providers to make positive changes . Choosing to replace tired , wasteful access control infrastructure rather than continually repairing will be key as the housing industry works towards a greener future .

www . intratone . uk . com