Not All Fire Alarm Systems Are Created Equal

//Not All Fire Alarm Systems Are Created Equal

Not All Fire Alarm Systems Are Created Equal

Of course if you don’t choose a reputable fire alarm supplier with a solid history in the trade then you could be taking a gamble on the basic quality of your alarm system – but let’s assume you do choose the right people to work with (we’ll give you a clue: our phone number’s at the bottom of this article!).

There are still a wide range of different types of fire alarm systems suited to different purposes.  Here, we’ll summarise these different types of alarms, so that you get a better idea of what’s right for your needs.  For more tailored advice, just give us a call.

Conventional Fire Alarm Systems

Conventional fire alarm systems are typically used in smaller properties such as shops and restaurants.

Cheaper to purchase than more complex alarm system, they work by dividing the building into a number of detection zones, with the detectors and call points within each zone hardwired on dedicated circuits to the control panel.

When a detector is activated, the control panel identifies the circuit that contains the triggered device and so indicates the zone from which the fire alarm has originated, but the area then has to be manually searched to pinpoint the individual device.

Analogue Addressable Systems

Unlike conventional systems, analogue addressable fire alarm systems give details on individual detectors.

Addressable fire alarm systems are designed for larger premises. They are much more expensive and more complicated than conventional systems, having increased flexibility, intelligence, speed of identification, and scope of control.

In addressable systems, different types of initiating devices are wired in one or more single loops around the premises, requiring less cabling than conventional systems, with each detector or call point having its own unique ‘address’.

The fire control panel can therefore indicate the exact location if there is a fire or smoke.

Two-Wire Fire Systems

Like conventional systems these are designed for smaller operations, two-wire fire alarm systems are based on standard system technology. The key difference is that the detectors, call points and alarm devices for each zone are wired on the same set of two-core zone cables back to the control panel, enabling it to use a single circuit per zone both for detection and to power the sounders or sirens.

Although two-wire systems cost more to purchase than conventional systems, they are quicker, more flexible and less expensive to install. They also provide more flexibility in operation, and have additional functionality, such as fault conditions, isolation, and detector recognition.

Aspirating Smoke Detection Systems

Aspirating smoke detection systems are extremely sensitive and can detect very small or smouldering fires far quicker than other systems.

They use a fan to draw in air from around a building via a network of sampling pipes and holes. The air is passed through a highly sensitive detector that analyses it and generates warning signals of potential fire when it detects smoke particles.

Expensive to install and maintain, these systems are highly sensitive and can detect cool smoke that does not rise to the ceiling, as well as smouldering fires and particles given off by overloaded electrical cables. They are therefore especially useful where early warning is required.

Wireless Systems

These alarm systems provide just as much protection as conventional wired systems and are useful when wired installations are not suitable (such as in grade-listed properties where wiring may be prohibited).  They are much quicker to install but generally more expensive to purchase.

Wireless systems need to comply with EN54-25 standard. Increasingly sophisticated, today’s wireless fire alarm systems are extremely reliable and have multi-frequency links to eliminate signal blocking and collision, allowing a high margin of signal strength to be maintained.

Summary

The system that’s right for you will depend on a number of factors, including the size and use of your premises, the risks involved and your budget. To find out more contact us here or call direct on 01254 739 255.

By |2014-03-10T08:00:51+00:00March 10th, 2014|Tips and Advice|0 Comments

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