Since 1948, Academy Mailbox and Intercom Co. has specialized in the installation of apartment house mailboxes, access control, and CCTV systems. It’s also become New York City’s largest integrator of intercom systems for multi-family residential buildings.
“Over the past 13 years, Aiphone has been our go-to company for intercoms,” said Dan Arnold, vice president, Academy. “I’d guess we’ve installed 350 Aiphone systems. Probably more.”
(Read the case study about the semi-retired owner of Academy Box installing an Aiphone JO Series video doorbell with mobile app capability to manage visitors and deliveries at his Florida home.)
One project involved an upscale 14-story co-op building within walking distance of the United Nations headquarters, the site of frequent protests about various world issues. On cold or rainy days, the co-op’s entry vestibule offered a warm, dry spot for protestors seeking quick refuge. It was also a nuisance and a possible security threat for residents.
Working with the co-op board and the building’s management company, Academy installed an Aiphone video intercom door station that enabled the vestibule door to remain locked at all times. To enter, visitors buzz residents who use tenant stations inside the apartment to see and speak with the person before remotely unlocking the door. Inside the vestibule, visitors use another door station to gain lobby and elevator access.
The solution required a few extra seconds to enter the building, but it also helped eliminate piggybacking, a process where an unauthorized person attempts to enter at the same time as an approved visitor.
Arnold said the intercoms Academy installs are evenly split between video and audio-only units.
“There are times I’ll recommend a video intercom system or at least give a customer an option to upgrade,” Arnold said. “Having the ability to see a visitor makes residents more careful of who they let into their building. But often, an audio-only system meets the needs of tenants and property managers.”
But whichever type of intercom a customer prefers, Arnold said he always feels confident recommending an Aiphone system.
“Aiphone systems are extremely reliable with great voice and video quality,” he said. “That reliability is important because it allows us to move on to new projects instead of being stuck fixing equipment we just installed. And the great Aiphone sales and support teams are a bonus.”
Thank you, Dan and Academy Mailbox, for giving us the opportunity to provide products and services to you and your customers.
