Wireless or Wired Alarm System: 7 Parameters 

Too many options make decision-making a challenging task. Too many parameters to consider, from cost to maintenance and whatnot. But when making important investments, the calculation makes sense. And when it comes to your building’s security, the matter gets a tad serious. So, when purchasing fire alarms, it’s better to do research and then make the decision. 

Imagine purchasing one without a smoke detector and your oven goes haywire. The risk seems rather fatal. So, here are a few points to consider when choosing between a wired or wireless fire alarm system. Let’s go.  

Which Suits You Better? Wireless or Wired Alarm System 

While the parameters are many, they will differ for different people. Some may seek commercial fire alarms while others may be looking for residential fire alarms. So, when making a choice, keep your demands in consideration.  

Which Fire Alarm is More Reliable? 

The winner is wired fire alarms. As the mechanism is quite simple, it’s more durable. Thus, it is more reliable than complex wireless fire alarm systems. 

However, the complications in a wireless fire alarm are not rocket science. When a systematic site survey is conducted, it’s easier to find the best wireless fire alarm system. If not, you may end up purchasing a fire alarm system that doesn’t suit your building’s area. Resulting in malfunctioning smoke sensors and other issues. 

Which Fire Alarm is Easier to Install? 

The one easier to install is a wireless fire alarm system. Because it doesn’t involve any wiring procedure. Wired fire alarms are harder to install because of the wiring that must go through the building. This makes the process more time-consuming than wireless fire alarm systems.  

Wireless fire alarms can be easily set up by installing sensors and panels on ceilings and walls. However, both require a precise site survey before the fire alarm installation.  

Which Fire Alarm Ensures Better Security?  

We personally believe wireless fire alarms are more secure because of their mechanism. However, wired fire alarms are also safe and are used by tons of people across the state.  

We consider wireless fire alarms more secure. Because of the access to smoke and heat sensors that send messages to the fire alarm panel. However, it’s more beneficial for larger premises than residential apartments.  

Which Fire Alarm System Gives Better Coverage? 

When we talk about coverage, we mean how durable a fire alarm is in critical situations. Especially, when there’s movement.  

Because of this wireless fire alarm systems offer better coverage.  As wired alarms require extensive wiring across the building. To relocate the entre thing becomes a hassle. This problem is non-existent in wireless fire alarm systems.  

So, when talking about scalability and coverage, wireless fire alarms take the trophy. Not because of their advanced features but because of their flexibility in all situations.  

Is the Fire Alarm Compatible? 

Unless your prime demand is aesthetics, wired fire alarms take this trophy. Because of their simple fire alarm system working principle, they’re easier to modify and integrate with other systems with the help of wiring.  

However, this puts the budget on curb. Also, such extensive systems are more essential for commercial purposes. But if residential alarms are what you’re looking for, wired alarms may not suit your taste because of the visible wiring on the walls.  

Which Fire Alarm System is More Cost-Effective?   

There’s no straight answer to this question. Wireless fire alarm systems are generally more expensive than wired fire alarms. This is because of the added features that a wireless fire alarm offers. Especially, the smoke and heat sensors are crucial for fire safety.  

Unless you have a tight budget, a wireless fire alarm system is much more cost-effective in the longer run. But if you’re looking for a simple fire alarm that caters to a large premise, wired fire alarms are your best deal. 

Which Fire Alarm is more High-Maintenance? 

When the question comes to maintenance, both require a certain degree of attention. It is advised by the U.S Fire Administration that all fire alarm systems must undergo inspection and testing, every 6 months. However, wired fire alarms are relatively easier to maintain. 

 On the contrary, wireless fire alarm systems are made up of several components including electric panels, sensors, sprinkler systems and more. To ensure their efficiency, each of these components requires regular testing. Thus, making wireless fire alarm systems a little harder to maintain.  

If not more difficult, at least more time-consuming. Moreover, when such precise actions are demanded, the maintenance charges go up. Thus, shooting up maintenance costs.


Read More:
Different Types of Fire Alarm Systems and Their Detectors
  

Compliance with Fire Alarm System Standards 

The fire alarm system standards are stringent, reliable and ensure the safety of individuals. This applies to both wired and wireless fire alarm systems.  California follows the NFPA 72 Code which has several parameters. Including:  

• NFPA sets protocols for installation of different types of fire alarms, their designs and layouts. If your fire alarm, wired or wireless, doesn’t match the standards of NFPA 72, there are chances of penalization.  

• It also has a blueprint for how each component of an integrated fire alarm system should be placed. Keeping in mind the distance and accessibility.  

• It makes mention of fire hazards and the measures that help combat such situations.  

• The code has a strict mandate that tells where to place detectors.  

• Pull stations must be accessible and placed near entrances and exits, according to NFPA 72 Code.  

• NFPA 72 Code also entails the usage of power supply. This includes the capacity of power supply units and battery systems as backups for the power supply units. 

• There are various other protocols regarding fire safety and hazards. These are available in the NFPA 72 Code Publication.  

Adhering to these standards as followed by the State of California will give you an impetus during critical situations. Though complications are more in wireless fire alarm systems, wired fire alarms are not devoid of such protocols and standards. To maintain compliance, follow the protocol and ensure safety in your surroundings.  

To Conclude 

There’s no one straight answer to choosing between wireless and wired fire alarms. Everyone has a different purpose for setting up a fire alarm. While one entrepreneur may make their first fire alarm purchase, another market player may be expanding their fire alarm system to cover a larger premise.  

From demands to purposes, all things vary when it comes to fire safety. However, the most crucial step is to purchase and install a fire alarm system. Make an educated decision and be free of fire hazards.