Fire alarm systems are necessary to ensure building occupants’ safety and protection. However, it is only helpful if your fire alarm system works correctly.
Whether due to excessive false alarms or other reasons, it’s time to consider an upgrade. Here are five signs it’s time.
Smoke Detectors No Longer Work
A fire alarm is your building’s best defense against dangerous and devastating fires. But, if your fire detection system shows signs of wear and tear or has become a nuisance due to false alarms, it may be time for an upgrade.
Many smoke detectors have a date on their back that indicates when they should be replaced. They also chirp to display low batteries or replacement notifications.
If your smoke detectors aren’t working, they must be replaced immediately. A non-functional smoke detector can give a fire too much time to spread and increase the risk of fatalities. It can also allow a small fire to become a disaster before residents react quickly. A fire alarm system companies can help you choose the correct replacement smoke detectors for your building.
Your Building Has Undergone Renovations or Expansions
If your building has undergone significant renovations, upgrading your fire alarm system with a professional company is likely time. Newer systems have more sophisticated sensors that detect the slightest signs of smoke or heat and direct emergency responders to the right place, potentially saving lives and reducing property damage. Older systems tend to trigger frequent false alarms, which are annoying and costly for business owners and desensitize occupants over time.
In addition, if you’ve changed the layout of your building and added or removed elevators or rooms, your fire alarm system could need to be updated to ensure code compliance. Fire safety regulations constantly change, and failing to comply could expose you to legal liabilities.
Your Building Has Changed Floor Plans
When a building undergoes major renovations or expansions, it’s essential to reassess the fire alarm system and ensure it can protect all areas. A professional company can help evaluate the building and determine whether an upgrade or new installation is needed.
If your fire alarm system is over ten years old, it is likely time to upgrade it. Over time, older systems lose functionality and are no longer supported by manufacturers, making it challenging to access replacement parts.
Investing in an upgrade now can reduce maintenance costs and maintain a high level of safety. A new system will also ensure that the building remains code-compliant. If your fire alarm system requires excessive repairs, it is likely nearing the end of its life and will need to be replaced.
Your Building Has Undergone Major Renovations
While this may seem like a no-brainer, it is worth mentioning that if your fire alarm system isn’t working, it’s time to replace it. An inoperable system is a dangerous liability and can cost your building through fire watch fees, overtime installation, or fines from local fire departments.
Similarly, frequent false alarms can desensitize your building occupants and reduce their responsiveness in the event of a real emergency. It can have serious repercussions, such as preventing firefighters from entering your building and halting business operations.
In addition, if you are making significant renovations to your building that require changes to fire codes or occupant capacity, this is also a good sign that your fire alarm system needs an upgrade.
Your Building Has Changed Floor Plans
If you have added rooms or expanded your building, it may be time to upgrade your fire alarm system. It will ensure that all areas are protected and that you comply with governmental fire safety regulations.
Upgrading to a more advanced system could save you money in the long run. A modern system can also offer features like remote monitoring and smartphone integration, making your business safer and more efficient.
Additionally, a more advanced system will likely be more accessible to maintain and offer more options for replacement parts. It is also worth considering a system that uses an open protocol, which allows you to switch maintenance companies more efficiently and access additional parts. It’s best to work with a company with NICET-certified design staff when making this upgrade.
