Addressable vs. Conventional Fire Alarms
When determining what type of fire alarm systems are best for your business, it boils down to your choice between a conventional and addressable alarm system. The combination of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detectors work together with your control panel to keep your business safe. Additionally, you will need to determine what kind of automatic and manual fire alarms you want to be installed.
While the installation for different systems may vary, the type of system you require will be in part described by the NFPA standards and the Authority Having Jurisdiction in your area.
Conventional Fire Alarm Systems
A conventional alarm system has numerous devices on a single pair of wires and may cover up to 20,000 square feet per zone. Typically, conventional systems are used for small facilities with few devices. Because there may be numerous devices on a single pair of wires, when an alarm is activated, there is no indication of which device was initiated at the panel. In order to determine which device was initiated you will have to inspect each device. Conventional systems are typically no longer acceptable by Authorities Having Jurisdictions.
Addressable Fire Alarm Systems
In contrast, an addressable system connects all devices using a loop, a single pair of wires for as many as 250 devices. Each device on the loop has an address as well as a description which is usually the location. When an alarm is activated, the individual address and description is displayed on the panel’s LCD. These systems are the most popular system across the industry today, and most jurisdictions require addressable systems.
These are better suited for large and complex systems because the loop technology means simplified wiring. Additionally, an addressable system offers more protection against false alarms because there are options that allow you to set up warning triggers. These warnings can help you identify potential false alarms and solve the issue before evacuating a large building.
Cost Differences
Conventional alarm systems are less expensive because the equipment required is simple, but they are more time consuming and labor intensive to install because of the multiple connections to the control panel.
An addressable system requires less wire and is a more simplified connection to the control panel itself. Addressable systems include more updated technology and advanced options, which would make it more expensive.
How to Choose
Generally, the size and type of your business will determine whether an addressable or conventional system is best suited to your building.
Addressable systems offer significantly advanced technology. New smoke detectors can tell the difference between a smoke particle and steam. Troubleshooting is significantly reduced on addressable systems due to advanced software and programming built into the system. In general, addressable systems are the best option for most facilities. If you still aren’t sure, our experts at FSS Technologies can assess your needs and help you determine what equipment and devices your building will require.
Once you have determined and installed your fire alarm system, you will be able to create fire safety procedures for your workplace and begin training your employees to be familiar with the system.
Give the fire alarm pros at FSS Technologies a call to learn more about our security and fire alarm system installation options. We are happy to answer any questions you may have.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Home Security Solutions for People with Disabilities
According to the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five American adults live with a disability. The most common disabilities are hearing or vision impairments, mobility issues like arthritis or a diminished ability to live independently, speech and language challenges, and cognitive conditions including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Recently we talked about…
Can I Install a Security System with Monitoring in my Apartment?
The most recent FBI data estimates that there are over 1.2 million burglaries a year, resulting in around $3.4 billion in property loss. Although property crime as a whole has been on the decline, the rise in popularity of video doorbells and more comprehensive and integrated home security systems shows that Americans are no less…
How Do Fire Sprinkler Systems Work?
Fire sprinkler systems work by detecting heat from fires and releasing water to extinguish them. Different components work together in various configurations to boost a structure’s fire and life safety measures. Learn how a fire sprinkler system works, what your options are, and why it’s a necessary investment for your business. What are the main…
Do You Know How Your Alarm System Communicates?
What is alarm monitoring? One of the most sought-after features for residential and commercial security systems is 24/7 alarm monitoring. Monitored security systems are connected to a central monitoring facility with staff who review tripped alarms, verify emergencies, and contact relevant emergency services. Monitors generally reach at least two phone numbers connected to a residence…
Does My Business Need an Access Control System?
Does My Business Need an Access Control System? Before determining whether your business could benefit from an access control system, let’s go over the different types and their capabilities. In short, an access control system is a type of security system that lets you control who, where, and when someone can enter or exit your…
What is a Manual Pull Station?
A manual pull station is a wall-mounted fire safety device that triggers an alarm in the event of an emergency. Pull stations are commonly found in many public buildings across the United States and Canada. Most people have seen them, and some have possibly even pulled one before, whether for a real emergency or a…
Winter Commercial Fire Safety Tips
While fire safety and prevention are crucial year-round, unique fire hazards accompany winter’s freezing temperatures. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that many holiday-related factors contribute to an increased fire risk during the winter months, and commercial settings are just as vulnerable. Besides creating and reviewing company-wide fire safety procedures, here are 4 tips…
How Your Internet Speed Affects Your Security System
Internet speed is a precious commodity in today’s connected homes. Internet speed is responsible for how quickly or slowly data moves from the internet to the application on your computer. Things like your mobile phone, television, computer, gaming system, and even appliances use the internet. And your home security system probably does too. The average…
5 Common Fire Safety Violations
For business owners, maintaining a commercial fire safety system is crucial for day-to-day protection. Ensuring your system and its components are in order is especially important when your business’ fire inspection occurs each year. Even if you do everything you can to prepare for your next fire inspection, you may only realize you missed something…
What are the Components of a Security System?
Security systems can vary widely in size and scale: from simple home alarms and small business surveillance systems to commercial-grade intrusion and detection systems. One system could even be comprised of enterprise-level networks that stretch across multiple locations. Understanding the essential components of a security system is the best way to start your search for…