How to Remove a Home Intercom System

A woman presses an intercom.
  • 2 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 10
What You'll Need
Screwdriver
Putty
Sandpaper
Wire caps
Electrical pliers
Voltage meter
What You'll Need
Screwdriver
Putty
Sandpaper
Wire caps
Electrical pliers
Voltage meter

A home intercom system can provide a useful tool for ensuring the security of your home while providing a means of communication between floors. If you plan to upgrade your home intercom system, or simply no longer need it, removing the old system is the first step in the process.

Step 1 - Determine Your Intercom Type

Intercom systems come in two types: hardwired and battery operated. Battery operated intercom systems are the easiest to remove because there are no wires to cap. Plugged-in systems are also simple to remove, as the wired connection does not go behind the drywall or plaster. The most difficult type of intercom to remove is hardwired, behind the wall installation, because it requires accessing and capping the electrical wires that power your unit. Look at the unit to determine the type you are using. If there is a cord to an outlet at the main unit, it is likely that the rest are battery operated. If there is no cord, remove the faceplate and check for a battery. If removing the battery shuts off power to the unit, then it is likely a battery only unit. If there are no external wires, and there is no battery to remove, or removing the battery does not shut off the system, it is likely a fully integrated hardwired system, and you will need to shut off power and purchase wire caps before proceeding.

Step 2 - Remove the Main Unit

If the system is hardwired, shut off power at the breaker box to the room where you are working, and check to make sure there is no power to the unit by gently touching the wires behind the faceplate with a voltage meter. Look for the screws that hold the mounting portion of the main unit onto the wall, and carefully remove them. If this is a battery-operated unit or a plug-in unit, you are now done with the main part of the intercom removal process. If the system is hardwired, the faceplate will not completely detach, and you will see wires running into the wall behind the mounting. The wiring must then be disconnected from the circuit breaker or inside the junction box closest to where the Unit is connected and where they can be safely capped off. At the main unit, carefully untwist or snip the wires with your pliers and remove the faceplate and the mounting bracket. You will be left with wires against the wall, and a small hole.

Step 3 - Close Up the Wall

Gently tuck the wires into the hole. If the hole is small enough, puttying over the opening and sanding once dry should be enough to give you a finish you can paint. If there is a hole larger than 1½ inches in diameter, use a drywall or plaster patch to provide a surface for the putty, and then carefully spackle over the patch. Allow the patch to dry for several hours before sanding. Repaint that portion of the wall to match the surrounding area.

Step 4 - Remove the Additional Units

Remove additional receivers by locating them throughout your home, and repeating the process described in Steps 2 and 3. If the entire system is hardwired, make sure that electricity is not flowing to each location before beginning work. If the breaker was not dedicated, restore power following completion of the project.