Fire Alarm System Installation

Non-Addressable (or Conventional) fire alarm systems are often a more economical choice for commercial fire alarms. The hardware associated with a conventional fire alarm tends to be significantly cheaper than other types of fire safety systems. However, these systems are more challenging to install, as they require extensive wiring, which translates to more time needed during fire alarm installation. 

A conventional system won't pinpoint the exact location of a fire; however, if properly wired, it can segment your premises into zones. This feature allows them to serve as a cost-effective solution even in commercial buildings with multiple floors or areas, provided the layout is relatively straightforward. Nevertheless, we wouldn’t recommend using them for more complex structures.

Addressable fire alarm systems are more advanced than basic conventional types. Each device in the addressable system has its own unique address—hence the name. This capability allows the fire alarm control panel to identify precisely which device has been activated, whether it's a smoke detector or a call point. Additionally, addressable commercial fire alarms can be easier to install than conventional systems because all devices connect through one wire 'loop' instead of individual cables. These fire safety systems also have the potential to save your business money over time, as they are less prone to false alarms and more effective during actual fire incidents, making fire alarm installation a worthwhile investment.

Wireless fire alarm systems are ideal for commercial premises that prioritize aesthetics, such as high-end retail outlets, or for those restricted from altering the building's structure, like listed or heritage buildings. As indicated by their name, these fire safety systems require no wiring for installation, making them very quick and convenient to set up. However, the systems can be quite expensive and come with several ongoing costs. 

The primary ongoing cost involves the regular replacement of batteries, which need to be monitored and replaced frequently. Given these ongoing expenses, we recommend opting for wireless systems in specialized scenarios as mentioned above or as a temporary fire alarm installation solution, such as on a building site.