Different Types of Commercial Fire Alarms

Residential properties or commercial buildings – all need security measures to keep occupants safe. Whether it is CCTV systems or burglar alarm systems, they ensure that the safety of the premises is intact and the inhabitants have no cause for concern. Another type of alarm that can alleviate potentially stressful situations for residents are fire alarms systems. It is beyond any resident’s control to forecast when a mishap might transpire. For instance, if there is a short circuit or a gas leak at the property, residents may be unaware and may not realize until they smell smoke or see a fire burning inside their dwelling. Therefore, fire alarms are a valuable commodity as they can prove particularly useful. We will take a look into the categories of fire alarms available for installation in properties. Automatic versus Manual First and foremost, there are two broad classifications of fire alarms: automatic and manual. In case of the former, when there are signs of smoke or heat, they emit an audio visual alert to notify residents that there is a fire in progress so they can either extinguish the fire before it escalate or evacuate the property if the situation is beyond saving. The other type is called manual fire alarms. These are not as advanced and have pull stations situated in proximity to the property. When a fire starts and is detected by residents, they just have to pull the lever and alert the concerned individuals that there is imminent danger. Commercial Fire Alarms There are a varying types of fire alarms available on the market. We will look into the main types below. Conventional Fire Alarms These are typically wired to the same cable which connects to a fire alarm control panel. The panel delineates a signal when the alarm is activated. Conventional alarms are generally cost effective and are best suited for smaller properties. This is primarily because they are equipped with a radical circuit which allows limited coverage. A separate alarm must be configured in each room and connected to a unified control panel. If a single alarm loses its connection, the entire system malfunctions. Addressable Fire Alarms On the other hand, addressable fire alarms are a modern version in contrast to conventional models. Its components have separate identifiers. For example, if a component initiates, it shows where the fire is emanating on the control panel. That makes it easier for residents to tackle the predicament of an emerging fire. This attribute makes addressable fire alarms better suited for large properties since it provides convenience. Residents do not have to scurry around their home or office searching for the fire, which may happen if they have installed conventional fire alarms. Hybrid Fire Alarms As the name indicates, hybrid models combine both conventional and addressable fire alarm systems. Technically speaking, the hardwired zone feature of conventional types is incorporated and merged with the loop circuit attribute of addressable fire alarms. These are connected to a unified panel. An integrated fire alarm enables users to upgrade from conventional fire alarms to addressable ones effectively and reduces the cost incurred at the time of purchase as well. Wireless Fire Alarms These come in either conventional or addressable systems. Their definitive attribute is that wiring is not necessary which makes these the ideal solution for properties where extensive wiring is not feasible, such as museums or listed buildings. Additionally, wireless alarms are easy to set up and provide an excellent short-term solution. With a range reaching 1.5 kilometres, they are also well suited to large properties.