A wireless fire alarm system has no wires and works on a specialized radio frequency that’s regulated by Ofcom. It uses this signal to communicate between detectors, call points and the control panel.
The best way to determine which type of system suits your premises is by conducting a fire risk assessment with an expert. This helps you identify and eliminate any risks before they cause a problem.
They don’t need wires
When you opt for a wireless system, there are no wires running between the detectors and call points. Instead, the devices communicate via radio signals, which means they can be placed at a distance without requiring costly cabling. This flexibility is why a lot of property owners prefer to go for a wireless fire alarm.
They’re also ideal for properties with modern and sleek aesthetics, as they can be installed without the presence of bulky visible cables. Wired systems, on the other hand, can detract from the appearance of a building and be difficult to hide.
The lack of wiring also makes wireless systems faster to install than their traditional counterparts. This is especially true if the building requires a significant amount of work or if the layout of the property changes during construction.
The ease of installation of a wireless fire alarm system is also why it’s popular for construction sites and other temporary buildings. It’s the responsibility of the Responsible Person on a construction site to ensure that all relevant fire safety measures are in place, and a fully functional alarm is one of these measures. Using a wireless fire alarm means that the alarm can be quickly installed and easily moved as required by the project, making compliance with BS 5839 simpler and faster. It’s also worth mentioning that these alarms are battery-powered, and the batteries should be regularly checked and replaced as necessary.
They’re easy to install
Unlike wired fire alarms that require electricians to work out the best way to fit them, wireless systems can be installed with minimal disruption and in less time. This is especially useful for older properties or buildings that have had extensive renovations, where rewiring would be a costly and disruptive process.
In addition, there’s no need for lengthy cables, which can detract from the aesthetic of a space. Wireless systems are sleek and look good, with a more minimalist design than traditional wired alarms.
They’re also mobile, meaning they can be moved around the building as the layout progresses – and this is especially helpful for construction sites. The fire alarms from DOTCOM SOLUTION UK, for example, can be interlinked and have up to 30 subsidiary units that can be triggered with just one button press – and they’re powered by standard alkaline batteries, which are cheap and easy to replace when necessary (the units have a low battery warning to prevent unnecessary downtime).
The main thing to remember with any fire alarm is to make sure that it’s regularly tested. It’s a legal requirement and it can help you to identify any problems before they develop into something more serious. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. That’s why regular testing is important, and they offer a full service that can take care of everything for you.
They’re reliable
If you’re worried about wireless fire alarm systems’ reliability, rest assured; they’re just as reliable as a wired system. The alarm units use radio signals to communicate with the control panel – meaning that they can work in even the most difficult locations without requiring lengthy cabling.
If the signal is lost for any reason (such as if there’s a power cut), the alarm will simply look for a different source of signal and will find it. They also operate on batteries that are long-lasting and easy to replace if needed so that they can keep working in the event of a power outage.
Once installed, a wireless system looks much neater than a wired option and can be easily moved around to match the layout of a construction site or building project. This makes them a popular choice for temporary safety solutions, like building sites or warehouses where the layout is likely to change regularly.
It’s important to note that any fire alarm, whether wireless or wired, must be inspected on a weekly basis. This is a requirement stipulated by BS 5839 and must be carried out by a ‘competent person’ to ensure that the fire safety measures remain compliant.
They’re affordable
In terms of costs, wireless systems are much cheaper than wired ones. That’s because they don’t require the same amount of cables to be installed, which reduces installation time. They also require less maintenance as the alarm devices are battery powered, which makes them more affordable in the long run.
In addition, they’re suitable for buildings with a modern and sleek aesthetic and are great for construction sites, where they can be easily reconfigured to suit changing layouts. They can also be removed for maintenance or to replace a device, which isn’t possible with hardwired alarms.
Fire safety is crucial to your business, and a well-installed fire alarm system is one of the best ways to protect your employees, customers and the rest of your premises from danger. Whether you choose a traditional wired or a wireless system, both can work effectively, and it’s down to personal preference and practical considerations. For instance, some people prefer the reassurance that comes with a hardwired system’s backup batteries, which can be recharged if necessary, and will keep working in a power cut.
However, it is important that any fire safety system you choose is regularly maintained to ensure its effectiveness. Choosing the right fire alarm system can help you meet the requirements of your building’s occupancy certificate. The fire safety system experts at DOTCOM SOLUTION can survey your site and recommend the best solution to suit your needs.
Wrap Up!
If you are also looking to install these wireless fire alarms, you can’t go wrong with DOTCOM SOLUTION. They specialize in providing reliable and high-quality fire safety systems, and their experts can help you choose the best wireless solution for your specific needs and requirements. In addition, they provide installation and maintenance services. Customer support and service are also excellent.