4 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Outdated Access and Control System

4 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Outdated Access and Control System

Is your current entry system slowing your staff down or leaving your property vulnerable? Legacy hardware often fails silently, meaning you might not notice a problem until a security breach happens. Taking a proactive approach to your building's access and control setup is vital to keep your premises safe and your daily operations running smoothly.

If you are experiencing constant faults, your security is already compromised. Here are four clear signs that it is time to upgrade your outdated hardware.

1. Unreliable Maglocks and Sticking Releases

A door that fails to lock is a massive security risk, while a door that refuses to open is a major safety hazard. Over time, physical wear and tear takes a heavy toll on your locking mechanisms.

For magnetic locks (maglocks), the metal armature plates can warp or become misaligned after thousands of door cycles. Furthermore, ageing 12V power supplies often begin to drop voltage. When a maglock does not receive full power, it loses its holding force, allowing intruders to simply pull the door open. If you constantly have to adjust sticking electric strikes or reset failing power units, your access and control hardware is reaching the end of its life.

2. Audio-Only Intercoms in a Video World

Relying on voice alone to verify a visitor is a significant security risk in 2026. Intruders can easily lie about who they are or pretend to be delivery drivers. If your staff or residents cannot see who is at the door, they are forced to guess.

Upgrading to modern colour video entry kits completely removes this risk. A clear video feed gives you absolute certainty before you press the release button. Bringing visual verification into your access and control system is one of the fastest ways to deter unwanted visitors and stop tailgating.

3. The Nightmare of Missing Keys and Fobs

If a business has no way to track or immediately delete a lost fob, their access and control setup is obsolete. Older standalone systems require you to program everything directly at the door. When a fob goes missing, you often have to wipe the entire system and reissue credentials to every single user just to stay secure.

Transitioning to PC-based management solves this nightmare. Modern networked systems allow IT managers and business owners to manage access from a central dashboard. You can instantly delete a missing fob with a single click, ensuring your building stays secure without disrupting the rest of your team.

4. Non-Compliance with Fire Safety (Exit Devices)

Security must never compromise life safety. Older installations often fall out of compliance with strict UK fire safety regulations.

You must check your doors regularly. Are the mechanical "Push to Exit" buttons sticking? Are you missing the mandatory green emergency break-glass units on your fire escape routes? If an exit button fails during a crisis, occupants could get trapped inside. Upgrading to contactless sensors and modern, resettable break-glass units ensures your access and control system remains fully compliant and safe for everyone.

Secure Your Property Today

Do not wait for a security breach or a total hardware failure to take action. Replacing worn-out components or installing a modern networked system protects your staff, your tenants, and your assets.

Ensure your property is protected. Shop Door Entry Online’s replacement maglocks, power supplies, and complete access and control kits today, and enjoy free UK delivery on orders over £250.

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