Wired vs. Wireless Fire Alarms: Which Is Better For My Kentucky Business?

As a business owner, you wear multiple hats on a daily basis. From managing your company’s finances to acquiring new customers, there’s no limit to the tasks you take on as an entrepreneur. 

With so much to deal with every single day, you might not have given much thought to your building’s fire alarm system. However, this aspect of your business is crucial to the safety of you and your employees. It’s well worth your time to ensure your fire alarm system is up to date and running smoothly.

When researching the best fire alarm for your Kentucky business needs, you might wonder which is the best choice: wired or wireless fire alarms. Fortu­nately, we’ve done an in-depth analysis of both fire alarm systems to help you make a well-informed decision.

In this article, we’ll explore:

How Wired Fire Alarms Work

Wired fire alarms operate through a centralized control system, with every component connected to a primary control panel. This control panel contin­u­ously monitors the environment and is directly wired to an array of detection devices, such as smoke detectors and heat sensors. These detectors are placed to meet applicable fire codes to ensure full coverage in the areas in which they are installed. Upon detection of any fire-related anomalies, the system immedi­ately triggers notifi­cation devices. This can include audible alarms, like bells or horns, and visual cues, typically flashing strobe lights, ensuring everyone in the vicinity is promptly alerted. No mention of sprinkler monitoring or activation or manual pull stations in cases where there are no automatic detectors that are still wired.

To enhance safety measures, many contem­porary wired systems are designed to automat­i­cally commu­nicate with local emergency services or specialized monitoring centers, facil­i­tating an immediate response by a fire department. While they mainly draw power from the build­ing’s electrical supply, these systems also incor­porate backup battery systems. This ensures they remain functional, offering uninter­rupted detection even during potential power outages.

Benefits

Potential Drawbacks

How Wireless Fire Alarms Work

Wireless fire alarms are designed around a central control panel, much like their wired counter­parts. However, the distinction lies in their mode of commu­ni­cation with the devices they are super­vising. Instead of relying on physical wires, these systems use radio frequencies to connect with sensors and alarms. The detection devices utilized in wireless setups, such as smoke and heat sensors, come equipped with built-in radio trans­mitters. This allows them to send instant alerts to the control panel without the constraints of wired connec­tions. When a potential fire hazard is detected, the system immedi­ately triggers notifi­cation devices like alarms and lights, all done wirelessly through signals from the control panel. 

Due to their modern nature, wireless systems often have advanced commu­ni­cation features. This ensures they maintain commu­ni­cation capabil­ities even when tradi­tional landlines fail. The central control panel typically draws power from the mains electricity, while individual sensors and devices run on batteries, ensuring they remain opera­tional without constant hardwired power sources.

Benefits

Potential Drawbacks

Determining Factors in Your Choice of Fire Alarm System

The choice between wired and wireless fire alarm systems for your Kentucky business boils down to your specific needs, budget, and the infra­structure in place. Both systems are designed to ensure safety. Evaluate your premises, consider potential future changes, and weigh the pros and cons of each system. 

Talking to a trusted security company like Bates Security can help you choose the right alarm for your budget.