Keeping our loved ones safe should always be our top priority. If you are also concerned about saving their lives quickly and effectively in case of an emergency, then getting a fire alarm system is an absolute must.
A fire alarm is a system that alerts individuals when smoke, fire, carbon monoxide, or other fire-related issues are detected. Such a system informs the building occupants and the emergency personnel about the fire. They are designed to identify fire as it spreads, and hence, they are considered an extremely powerful tool to combat fire in any establishment. Even though they are of great importance, they are often overlooked until an emergency occurs.
If you want to learn more about such a system, read further. We have designed this article to discuss the fire alarm system, its components, types, and more. So, scroll down and expand your knowledge.
Different Types Of Fire Alarm Systems
Like every other product, a fire alarm system also consists of different types. It can be divided into two main types. Now that we are well-versed with these systems, let us learn more.
1. Conventional Fire Alarm Systems
It is a type of alarm system intended to provide early notice for small facilities. It uses physical cabling to connect various call points and detectors together so that the signals can route back to the main system. While it offers a considerable amount of protection, it is an inexpensive option. It is the perfect choice for businesses where indicating a potential hazard is more important than knowing the specific location of the fire. The inability to see the component of the building that is on fire is the only drawback of this system.
Even though these alarms have been around in the market for years, they are no longer used in large buildings. They are majorly used in small stores, schools, restaurants, and apartments. Such a system works best for those with budget constraints.
2. Addressable Fire Alarm Systems
If you are looking for an alarm system that will allow you to pinpoint the specific position of the incident, then this addressable fire system is ideal for you. While its detection principle is the same as a conventional system, it provides the user with the exact location and determines which detector is triggered. In such a system, all the components are connected with each other and monitored individually via a panel to offer better protection against fire outbreaks. While this system is more expensive than other available options, its offerings make it worth the money.
Such systems are also known as “Intelligent Fire Alarms” as they are more sophisticated and have a higher degree of flexibility and single-point detection. They incorporate a variety of devices and allow greater customization. The major benefits of using such systems are better communication and reduced response times.
List Of Fire Alarm System Components
If you are planning to install an alarm system, it is crucial to know about all its components. Knowing the components will help you understand what the system includes and make it easy to customize the system as per your requirements. Here’s a list of all the components.
- Fire alarm control panel
- Initiation devices
- Pull stations
- Smoke detectors
- Duct detectors
- Heat detectors
- Beam detectors
- Air aspirating or air sampling smoke detectors
- Water flow switches
- Tamper switches
- Notification devices
- Audible devices
- Strobes
- Strobes/Horns
- Flame detectors
- Dialers or communicators
- NAC power supplies
How To Choose A Fire Alarm System?
Fire outbreaks are unforeseen and can never be predicted in advance. This is why people take various measures, including the installation of a fire safety system. While installing a fire alarm system is great, the real task is picking the right one. It is crucial to select the appropriate system that can detect the fire and protect you, your family, and your assets from any harm. To help you out, we have listed some of the factors you must consider when choosing an alarm system.
1. Place where you want to install the system, whether residential or commercial.
2. The risks and threats of the building
3. Size and the layout of the installation location
4. Reliability and speed of the system
5. State-of-the-art technology
6. Safety rating
7. Services offered
8. Backup power of the system, etc.
Why Do You Need To Install A Fire Alarm System?
Installing a fire alarm system is one of the most crucial measures you can take to mitigate fire risk. Such systems come with many benefits that we are going to discuss further. Have a look at why you need to install such a system.
1. Helps In Early Detection: This is probably the biggest advantage of an alarm system. Having such a system installed at your place lets you detect the threat before it causes severe damage.
2. Avoids Inhaling Smoke: Smoke inhalation is a leading cause of death in situations of fire outbreaks. However, with the help of an alarm system, you can get out of the place during the fire and avoid inhaling the smoke.
3. Qualifies You For Insurance Discounts: The majority of insurance companies provide incredible discounts on insurance premiums if a code-compliant fire alarm system is installed in the place.
4. Minimizes The Loss: While buying a fire alarm system might look like a costly affair, installing it will minimize the loss, which in turn lets you save a lot of money. The alarm system notifies the property owner as well as the fire responders, which ensures the damage is less.
5. Helps In Saving Lives: This is the top reason for installing an alarm system. It alerts people in case of a fire outbreak and provides them with enough time to evacuate the place.
Our Fire Alarm Systems Recommendations
While fire alarm systems are a great buy, it becomes challenging to find the right one with so many options and countless technical information. This is why our experts spent weeks researching different brands and their alarm systems. As a result, they bring you some of the best options to choose from. Have a look at our recommendations.
- Honeywell HS-81 Industrial Fire and Gas Controller
- Siemens Desigo Mass Notification
- Kidde FX Series
- Bosch Fire Alarm Systems
- Kidde VS-Series
While these are top fire alarm products, the one right for you will depend upon what features you are looking for in the system.
The Bottom Line
We hope you enjoyed this brief overview of fire alarm systems. Now that you are familiar with these systems and learned how to pick the best option, it’s time to get one yourself.
For more safety products, guides, and reviews, check out the Home Of Expertise platform. As the name suggests, we have a team of experts who will answer your questions, take your feedback, and provide you with genuine reviews and information. Stay in touch and stay safe!
