Wireless Fire Alarms: Are they any good?
Wireless fire alarms are increasingly popular in residential and commercial properties. They operate without the need for physical wiring between the different alarm components, making them popular in places where wiring may be difficult or undesirable.
How do wireless fire alarms work and are they as effective as wired options?
Are wireless fire alarms any good?
When considering fire alarm systems many people have concerns that wireless fire alarm systems are not as reliable or effective as wired alternatives. They perhaps believe that a fire alarm wireless system might offer less effective protection than a wired system.
However, wireless fire alarm systems are just as effective and reliable as wired systems when correctly installed and maintained. In fact, they have a range of potential advantages in some situations.
Wireless fire alarm systems are quick and easy to install, especially in existing buildings where running new wiring may be challenging or more disruptive. They also provide flexibility regarding where devices are placed and they are easy to add to or relocate as required. For this reason, a commercial wireless fire alarm system is often preferred by businesses. Installation costs are lower, particularly when retrofitting older buildings or for smaller installations where the cost of running new wiring may be considerable.
However, wireless fire alarm systems are battery powered which means that building owners and managers need to ensure that the batteries are regularly checked and replaced when necessary. They may also not be suitable for buildings where there is considerable distance between the components.
How do wireless fire alarm systems work?
A wireless fire alarm system is a fire detection and notification system that works without the need for physical wiring. Rather than electrical wiring, wireless fire alarms use radio frequency communication to transmit signals between different devices such as smoke and heat detectors, notification devices and control panels. When a sensor is triggered by the presence of smoke or heat, it then sends a wireless signal to the control panel which activates the alarm.
What is the British Standard for wireless fire alarm systems?
The British Standard for wireless fire alarm systems is BS 5839-1:2017. This standard is part of the BS 5839 series, which provides guidelines for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems.
The standard covers the type of fire alarm systems available, recommendations for the design and layout of the system, as well as installation requirements. The standard also provides guidance on testing, commissioning and maintenance and requirements for alarm transmission and monitoring.
Which is better: A wired or wireless fire alarm system?
Wired and wireless fire alarm systems each have advantages and disadvantages. As a general rule, a wireless fire alarm system cost will generally be lower than the comparable cost for a wired system. This is particularly the case in older buildings where laying new wiring may be disruptive and potentially expensive.
Wireless systems are quick to install, highly effective and flexible.
How much do wireless fire alarm systems cost?
Wireless fire alarm system costs will vary depending on the location and complexity of the system required. The number of devices required, the specific features and functionalities of the system, and the quality of the equipment will also impact on the price. While the costs can vary, for smaller residential or commercial properties, a basic wireless fire alarm system will typically cost around £500 to £1,000.
For medium-sized buildings or for more complex setups such as larger offices, industrial facilities or warehouses, the wireless fire alarm system cost can range from £1,000 to £5,000. In larger buildings, this figure can rise again. These systems require more advanced technology, greater equipment, and multiple wireless devices and may need to be integrated with other building systems. This means that in the largest buildings with complex requirements when it comes to fire detection, the cost of installing a wireless fire alarm system can reach the tens of thousands.
To receive an accurate quote for an installation at your property, it’s important to consult with a qualified installer.
Wireless fire alarm systems from Protive Security & Surveillance
At Protive, we provide a comprehensive fire alarm system installation and maintenance service for residential and commercial properties.
Contact our experienced team to receive an accurate quote or to find out more about the advantages of wireless fire alarm systems.
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