How long does a commercial fire alarm system last?
A commercial fire alarm is relied upon to provide early warning of a fire incident. It gives people time to safely evacuate the building and to ensure that there is a prompt emergency response. Commercial fire alarms are designed for the specific requirements of the building, its size, and layout.
Over time, parts can wear out and the system becomes less reliable. Regular servicing and maintenance can extend the safe working lifespan of a fire alarm system, but eventually they will need to be replaced.
How long does a commercial fire alarm system last and when should they typically be replaced?
What is the life expectancy of a commercial fire alarm system?
Answering the question how long does a commercial fire alarm system last depends on a range of factors. The lifespan of a commercial fire alarm system is typically 10 to 15 years, but the quality of the system and the installation, how it’s used, and the maintenance regime, will impact its longevity. Environmental conditions, such as workplace dust or exposure to harsh weather may shorten the lifespan of the system
Modern fire alarm systems have been developed to be durable and reliable. With correct use and regular maintenance they should provide consistent performance over many years.
Components such as control panels, detectors, and sounders all have their own lifespans. The sensitivity of detectors can deteriorate over time due to dust or environmental factors. Batteries in backup systems will need to be checked and replaced, usually every 3 to 5 years.
Advances in technology and changing regulations can mean that older systems become obsolete. Upgrading to a newer system will usually provide better detection capabilities, more features, and meet current standards.
How often should commercial fire alarm systems be replaced?
Once a commercial fire alarm system is installed and operational, regular maintenance and servicing should include an assessment of the system’s continued fitness for purpose.
If the system starts to show signs of unreliability, such as frequent breakdowns even after repairs and maintenance, then it may be time to install a new system. The consequences of a system failing when it’s needed can be severe.
It’s also worth paying attention to fire safety standards which can change and evolve over time. For example, the British Standard BS 5839-1, which governs fire alarm systems in the UK, is updated periodically. If a system no longer meets the current requirements, it should be replaced to ensure continued compliance.
Technological advancements also mean that new systems can offer greater protection and higher functionality than older installations. If a building undergoes significant renovations, then your current system may no longer offer comprehensive protection.
Regular maintenance is essential to maximise the longevity of your fire alarm system as well as to ensure its safe and reliable operation.
Professional fire alarm advice, installation and maintenance
At Protive Security, we provide a comprehensive fire alarm system installation and maintenance service for residential and commercial properties. We can advise about the best choice of system for your property and then design and install that system to the highest professional standards.
Contact our experienced team for further advice and to receive an accurate quotation.
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