Fire can have a devastating effect on a building and the best way to protect both your property and the people inside is to invest in a reliable fire alarm system. For many years, hardwired fire alarm systems were the default, but in recent years, wireless fire alarms have surged in popularity.
Many people may be under the mistaken assumption that hardwired fire alarms are more reliable, but in actual fact, wireless fire alarm systems offer a number of unique advantages, which we’ve covered in this article.
How do wireless fire alarms work?
While you might think wireless fire alarms are a fairly new invention, they’ve actually been around since the 1980s, although the technology is a lot more refined nowadays.
As the name suggests, wireless fire alarms work without the need for any wiring; instead, the system is powered entirely by batteries. When a fire is detected, the nearest sensor will be triggered. Using radio frequency, a signal will be transmitted to the system’s control panel, which will then sound the alarm.
Wireless fire alarm systems typically have a wide range, meaning the sensor can be installed far from the control panel and still manage to communicate effectively.
How do I know if my fire alarm is out of battery?
Typically, if your fire alarm is low on battery then it will emit a persistent, high-pitched chirping sound every minute or so. You might also notice a flashing red light on your sensor, another sign of low battery. For your safety, you should periodically check the batteries of your fire alarm; if you test the alarm and it doesn’t sound at all, the batteries are likely completely dead and need to be immediately replaced.
Benefits of wireless fire alarms
- Simple installation: Hardwired fire alarms will require metres of wiring, which will have to be run through ceilings and walls. By contrast, wireless fire alarms rely on battery power so can be easily fitted without needing to worry about drilling or installing electrical connections.
- Flexibility: Wireless fire alarms are highly flexible and your system can be scaled up or down or moved to different locations with minimal hassle.
- Cost-effectiveness: As there’s no need for extensive electrical wiring work, installation costs are reduced.
- Tidy appearance: Wireless fire alarms are neat and unobtrusive, with no visible wires or cables running through your property.
- Suitable for temporary locations: Wireless fire alarms can be easily adjusted or moved without a trace, making them perfect for short-term venues or rental properties.
- Reliable: As wireless fire alarms are battery-powered, you’ll remain protected, even during a power cut. However, don’t get caught out and make sure to always have spare batteries on hand!
Where should wireless fire alarms be installed?
Wireless fire alarms are a good idea for pretty much any building, however, there are certain settings where they should be particularly encouraged, such as:
- Historic or listed buildings: Period properties are often subject to strict restrictions on what alterations can be made, meaning hardwired alarm systems just aren’t suitable due to their permanency and the damage they can leave behind.
- Temporary locations: For construction sites or other temporary structures, wireless fire alarms can be easily installed and removed for short-term protection.
- Buildings with high ceilings: In spaces with high ceilings, it can be challenging or downright impossible to install fire alarms without specialist equipment, making wireless fire alarms a much more convenient alternative.
- Start-up businesses: If you’re in the early stages of setting up your business premises and you have plans to expand in the future, a wireless fire alarm system can be scaled up to accommodate changing plans.
- Communal buildings and HMOs: Given how easily wireless fire alarms can be installed, disruption is kept to a minimum for residents of HMOs and communal buildings.
Say goodbye to unsightly wiring and upgrade the fire safety measures at your domestic or commercial property in Maidstone, Medway, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks, Canterbury, Tunbridge Wells, Ashford or beyond with our help.
Here at Astra Security, we supply, install and maintain wireless fire alarm systems from a number of leading brands, including Smartcell, Apollo Reach and Electro-Detectors. To find out more, get in touch with our friendly team today – with over 40 years of experience, we’re sure to have the answers to your questions.
