Wired or Wireless Fire Alarm System: The Benefits of Wireless Alarm Systems

Wireless technology is a key feature in any modern home, but it is understandable that some people may be sceptical about the use of wireless tech, particularly when it comes to a wireless fire alarm system.

As a homeowner or business owner, keeping yourself and your property safe is always a priority. Fire can be a huge threat to homes and business premises alike, so fire alarm systems are an essential investment. Designed to notify us of fire at the earliest opportunity, a fire alarm system, whether wired or a modern wireless system, can be the difference between life and death. In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of wireless alarm systems, so whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing fire alarm system or install a new one, read on to learn more about the benefits of investing in a wireless fire alarm system.

How a wireless fire alarm system works

Wireless fire alarm systems work in much the same way as wired systems, except that rather than connecting the detectors, call points and control systems with wiring, wireless systems operate using radio waves to transmit signals from the detectors to a central control panel and then to call points to sound the alarm. 

Whilst wireless alarm systems date back to the 1980s, there has long been a worry that they are not as reliable as wired systems, and for many years, this was true. With short battery life for sensors and call points, along with weak radio signals, regular maintenance was required. However, with the constant development of wireless technology, wireless alarms now function highly effectively and provide a range of benefits over wired alarms. In fact, in the majority of scenarios, wireless alarm systems are your ideal choice. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages they provide.

Fast installation

As there is no need to install networks of wires in your premises, wireless systems can be installed in a much faster time, meaning considerably less disruption to your home or business. 

Cleaner look

One of the biggest cons of wired fire alarms is that in order to install wires in your premises, it is usually necessary to break walls, damage interior decor, or add unsightly trunking to cover wires. With wireless systems, the different components can be surface mounted, helping to protect walls.

Flexible installations

Another key benefit of wireless systems is that they allow for a lot of flexibility when it comes to updating them over time. For example, for a home, new sensors and call points can easily be added to the loop should the home be extended. For businesses, wireless systems can also be added to temporary structures, annexes and outbuildings. Should the alarm system need to be changed or added to at any point, it is extremely easy to move components and add new ones, integrating them with the existing control system.

For businesses in rented premises who may wish to expand their fire alarm systems over time as the business grows and takes on more space, wireless alarms are certainly the most beneficial choice.

Integration with smart control systems

As more homes and businesses are geared up for home automation and smart control systems, a further benefit of wireless fire alarms is that they can be integrated with other technologies to provide extended safety.

Operational even during a power outage

As wireless alarm systems are battery powered, should there be a power cut, the alarms will remain operational as normal, ensuring you are protected even when there is no mains power.

Does my building need a wireless alarm system?

Whilst wireless alarm systems are almost always a good idea, it’s important to consider the scenarios where a wireless system should certainly be the top choice over wired systems. 

• It can be difficult to install traditional systems in buildings with high ceilings.
• Installing traditional wired systems in communal residential premises such as flats or apartments would be time consuming and disruptive.
• Historic or listed buildings may have restrictions to how they can be altered, meaning that installing wired systems is not possible.

Wireless Fire Alarm Installation in Southampton

If you are looking for a wireless alarm installation in Southampton or the surrounding areas, then look no further than First Contact Fire & Security. Call us today on 02380 410 610 to discuss your needs – we can guarantee the most competitively priced alarm systems for residential and commercial properties in Hampshire.