A fire alarm is one of the crucial things in our lives. It can save hundreds of lives if it rings just in time. Usually, the alarms cover commercial buildings and residences. Moreover, the warning bell comes in different forms. Sometimes, it can be a flashlight, a siren, or even a combination of both. A few offices also prefer warnings in voice when the alarm rings.
Nowadays, people are going for automation in most of the activities. Therefore, the fire alarms are also not outside this initiative. Today, most users like to have a wireless fire alarm system. However, it is essential to understand the functionalities of the system and the norms of utilizing the same. These systems can also be operated through mobile apps.
According to the related components and features, you will find various categories of wireless fire alarms. Want to learn about these helpful appliances? Please be with me on this page to get a quick overview of them.
Need for Wireless Fire Alarms
Undoubtedly, when we say fire alarms, we indicate a warning to people aware of the fire. Similarly, a wireless fire alarm system will alert you that the premises or the room is on fire. Furthermore, its installation is also convenient without causing the work to be cumbersome. These wireless devices are famous for their flexibility and ease of operation.
However, the installation cost is slightly higher than the wired systems. Some may also feel the maintenance cost to be expensive. Although the set-up cost is high, you can still run it without much hassle. Besides, these wireless fire alarms are subject to frequent replacement of batteries. Therefore, you must be aware of the battery life and when to replace it for uninterrupted services.
The primary need for a wireless fire alarm is notifying the residents of a premise about the fire sequences. They send the alerts to the central monitoring system to ensure quick action for emergencies. However, in some cases, the fire alarms also transit the emergency message directly to the fire department. The wireless devices are more powerful and take less time than the traditional ones to send emergency alerts.
How Wireless Fire Alarms Work?
Radiofrequency is primarily responsible for the smooth functioning of a wireless fire alarm system. This device will transmit a signal to the control panel as soon as it runs. You will have three types of detectors involved in this activity. Let me explain the operations of each of them:-
- Carbon monoxide detector: They detect the presence of the gases through components like electrochemical cells, opto-chemical or integrated chemical cells, and biomimetic cells.
- Heat detectors: They are used to sense the heat. The tracing becomes easy with the presence of the built-in thermistors.
- Smoke detectors: As the name implies, these detectors will ring the bell once they can trace smoke. Moreover, they can even detect the presence of combustion particles by using ionization techniques or photoelectricity.
If the alarms are for different floors or channels connected with each other, an appropriate system must appointed to make everyone aware of the fire breakdown. These can be alerts through loudspeakers or horns. According to the need and nature of the alarm, there will be detection mechanisms. Once the detector gives the signal to the fire alarm panel, it will, in turn, activate the sprinklers, flashers, or the concerned sound system.
Installation Made Easy
The installation of wireless fire alarms is less time-consuming than traditional fire alarms. The simple process will be over within two days only, with the help of around two personnel. Therefore, it is a great choice when you have a restricted labour supply as well as time.
The steps for such installation are as follows:-
- A wireless fire alarm system does not require wiring or involve any wall penetration. Therefore, you can update the components later as per the need.
- The wireless system can operate efficiently even outside the stipulated range of more than 500 feet.
- Identify the fire detectors attached to your device and understand the cautions associated with various detectors.
- Determine the layout of your room, home, or office before installing the final device. Examine each corner to identify the best place for installation.
- Procure the sensors to get the best results in times of emergencies
- Install a caution on every level or floor for quicker smoke alerts
- Ensure the gap between the roof and the locators is less than or equal to 12 inches. It is applicable mainly to wall gadgets.
- Ensure that everybody in the room can reciprocate with the fire alarms. They must know the course of action when the alarm activates.
- You can place a chart at every level or divider for a room displaying the steps in case of fire alarm rings
- Test the devices to understand whether the installation is correct or not
Benefits of Going Wireless
- Quicker and easier installation for the fire alarms
- No need to get tired of the tangles of the wires
- The walls and other structures remain damage-free
- Additional cables are not necessary
- The alarm is automatic and functions even during a power cut
- Modification is easy due to the sudden need
Choosing the Right System
Are you confused about which type of fire alarm to choose for your premises? We have the perfect solution designed to eliminate all the dilemmas. First, you need to identify your requirements. Please ensure that the new fire alarm is compatible with your existing security model. Any mismatch can create a disaster in future.
Moreover, you must think about your budget and choose the security set-up accordingly. Connect with a reputed vendor to install the wireless fire alarm setup appropriately. They can brief you about the salient features of each device and how it works. Before deciding on any particular model, you must check the quality and services for the online reviews.
It is also important to get familiar with the fire codes in your country and your responsibilities related to a sudden fire breakout. You must also be aware of additional characteristics of the system, like the alarm type, battery backup, hush buttons, and the like. Compare the prices of the ancillary parts to get an idea of the maintenance costs. Besides, check the respective model fulfils all your criteria.
Ensuring Proper Maintenance
The wireless fire alarm system can involve expensive maintenance compared to the wired systems. However, it depends on the longevity of the equipment and components responsible for operating the system. You should prepare a budget to understand the costs of replacing the different components periodically. Furthermore, additional focus is essential on the durability of every part of the device.
The most important parts that required replacement or improvement are:-
Batteries
A wireless firm alarm cannot work without a powerful battery. Therefore, read the user manual well to know about the battery backup of your system. Follow the guidelines of the manufacturers with respect to the frequency of battery replacement. In the case of a sounder, this span is around 3 years, whereas it is around 5 years for a detector.
Radio Signal Strength
You must ensure the radio signal strength is within the power tolerance level per the manufacturer’s guidelines. However, you must consider undertaking periodic monitoring of the device for extra protection. A maintenance engineer can inspect the recorded readings of the device and analyse its health. Please retain a copy of these readings for future comparison.
Wireless Vs. Wired: A Comparison
Wired System
A wired fire alarm will require high costs and complications for installation. However, the operations are dependent on the uninterrupted power supply. In times of outages, the backup battery will give temporary support.
Moreover, this system lacks flexibility. It can be challenging to modify the components, control panel, or linked devices in case of any change. Rewiring may be the ultimate solution, leading to additional expenses. The newly constructed buildings are compatible with concealing the wired cables within the ceilings or walls. Otherwise, the wired system is not aesthetically pleasing.
This system is preferred for high-end structures where network connection can be problematic. Wireless models may not operate smoothly under such circumstances.
Wireless System
The wireless fire alarm system has a lot of advantages over the wired ones. They require less space, no wiring, and low costs for installation. Moreover, it is flexible and can be modified as and when needed. The operations are pretty easy and require only premium connectivity of power. It can also run for hours in case of power outages for the powerful batteries.
This cleaner connectivity is more beneficial for Grade 2 listed buildings and older properties in the UK.
However, we can say that both systems are effective with respect to security. You need to be cautious while installing any of them and take immediate action in emergencies.
Future of Wireless Alarms
According to the latest forecast about wireless fire alarms, the system’s usage will experience a stunning hike in the coming years. Therefore, you can expect a superb development from 2023 to 2032. The key players are adopting innovative technologies to enhance the power of the systems.
In the future, the system will be able to detect probable fire hazards, analyse environmental conditions, and examine fire patterns. It will give you indications of whether you need to change the battery. Therefore, a safer environment is going to prevail with the advent of more advanced wireless alarms.
FAQs
Are wireless fire alarm systems reliable?
Yes. Wireless fire alarm systems are highly reliable, especially when an uninterrupted power supply or a continuous network exists.
Can I install a wireless fire alarm myself?
Yes, you can. The installation process is very simple and requires only two people to carry out the work.
How often should I test my wireless fire alarm system?
You must check the system once in a week to examine the working condition of the alarm.
Do wireless fire alarms work during power outages?
Yes. Ensure the battery backup is powerful enough to serve you during continuous power outages.
Are wireless fire alarms susceptible to hacking?
Yes, they are vulnerable. A hacker can break into the system through the fire alarm and destroy the confidential files of the company.
Conclusion
If you are thinking of installing a fire alarm in your building, please identify your building type first. A wireless fire alarm system will be ideal for older buildings rather than the new ones. Always implement the system after testing.
Verify the new system’s features, and compare its implementation’s cost-effectiveness. It is evident that the future of wireless alarms is quite bright. So, learn about its utilities in everyday life and maintain the devices properly. This will enhance the overall durability of the system.