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Different Types of Fire Alarm Systems and Their Detectors
Fire alarms are a key security system to prevent fire damage. Learn about different types of fire alarm systems and 4 types of fire detectors from this article!
As a business owner, it’s important that you choose a fire alarm system that’s perfectly suited to your needs. When choosing a new system, you’ll need to be mindful of the size of your property and consider how it works and how it can best protect your assets.
But how many types of fire alarms are there? Our team at Forbel is sharing all the types of fire alarm systems, so you understand your options to make the best choice for you. Let's dive in!
Did you know there's more than one type of fire alarm? Typically divided into four main categories - ionization, photoelectric, heat, and combined ionization/photoelectric - each one detects fires differently.
Below, we’re sharing some key insights into each of the four types of fire alarm detector options. Check it out!
Ionization
Ionization smoke detectors rely on a constant electrical current. This current runs between two electrically charged plates within the device and is only disrupted when smoke enters. When this happens, it triggers an alarm signal to signal a fire. Typically, this fire alarm is touted for detecting fast-burning fires fast.
Photoelectric
Photoelectric smoke detectors operate similarly to ionization detectors, however, instead of electricity, they rely on a laser beam. This light is scattered when it encounters smoke, signaling the alarm to sound. This is an incredibly reliable fire alarm that works well with small fires.
Heat
Heat detectors signal an alarm when they sense a change in air temperature due to flames. However, since it's temperature-reliant, these alarms do experience false alarms due to humidity or steam. For this reason, these are most often relied upon in storage facilities or warehouses.
Combined Ionization and Photoelectric
A go-to in the industry, a hybrid of ionization and the photoelectric detector is often deemed the best option on the market. With both an electrical current and a light beam, this device is one of the fastest you can get, detecting smoke rapidly to sound a warning alarm.
Fire alarm systems can be categorized into two types of commercial fire alarm systems:
- Manual Fire Alarm System: This is a fire alarm system that is manned and operated 24/7 by a person and the alerts will be made manually at the pull station.
- Automatic Fire Alarm System: Its definition is a fire alarm system that gets automatically triggered by fire or smoke.
The difference between them is clear. One relies on human supervision while the other does not.
Now that we know the different fire alarm detectors, it's time to break down the types of fire alarm systems. From wireless systems to conventional fire alarms, there's one to best suit everyone's space. Here are the key differences to help with your search.
Two-Wire Fire Alarm Systems
A two-wire fire alarm is founded on the standard conventional system, however, it utilizes a two-wire system. With this structure, the call points, detectors, and alarm devices are wired to two zone cables, going back to the fire alarm control panel. This two-wire system allows for increased flexibility that also has additional benefits like detector recognition and isolation.
Typically used in smaller spaces, this system is fast to detect smoke and cheaper to install, however, it costs more upfront.
Wireless Fire Alarm Systems
With a wireless system, you'll have a fire alarm without cables connecting the detection device to the fire alarm panel. This system relies on multi-frequency links for heightened functionality, maintaining signal strength for constant protection. This system may be more expensive to purchase, but it's more flexible and quicker to install. Plus, it doesn't have all the cabling of a wired system, making it great for properties that don't allow wiring.
Conventional Fire Alarm Systems
What is a conventional fire alarm system? It is a type of fire alarm system whose devices and panels are hardwired individually to the fire alarm control panel.
A conventional fire alarm system is a 4-wire system that is frequently used in smaller properties. This system divides space into different detection zones, with each wired to a dedicated circuit in a control unit. This allows for multiple detectors in each zone, and in the case fire is detected, the panel shows what zone the signal was triggered within. However, since it shares a zone, the location has to be checked out in person to find the specific location of the fire, which is the reason why it's best for smaller spaces.
This is one of the most affordable alarm systems and one many shops and restaurants choose to rely on.
Analogue-Addressable Fire Alarm Systems
The definition of an addressable fire alarm system is an intelligent system whose components are connected to each other and the control unit. An addressable fire alarm system allows you to set manual and automatic alarms in distinct parts of the building.
Unlike conventional systems that share a detected fire based on the zone, analog-addressable systems actually signal the specific detector that sensed smoke. Due to the specificity of this system, it's a reliable choice for large, commercial properties that need more specific identification of a fire that may not be readily visible or quick to locate within a zone.
Additionally, this system doesn't require as much cabling as a conventional one, and each detector has its own unique address to signal directly where a fire, heat, or smoke has been found.
Hybrid Fire Alarms
Hybrid fire alarm systems are the perfect combination because they allow the hardwired and wireless detection systems to work in harmony to create a more customized and efficient whole. In other words, if something damages the wires of the conventional system the addressable system can come in as a reliable backup.
Aspirating Smoke Detection Systems
One of the more sensitive fire detection options you can choose from, an aspirating system can pick up on extremely small fires much quicker than other systems. It does so with a fan that pulls in air from the building, which then passes through a pipe system, and a detector that checks for any signs of potential smoke particles.
While it's highly sensitive and reliable, this system is both expensive to install and keep up with. However, they’re great in cases where you need the earliest warning of smoke or fire.
Wondering, “What type of fire alarm do I need?”
Fire alarms aren't one size fits all, and the best one for your needs depends largely on the size of your space, the cabling capabilities, and your unique needs or industry. What is the best type of fire alarm for a commercial property will be very different from that of a small store. With larger spaces, a system like the analog-addressable one is best to show exactly where a fire is so you aren't searching high and low across a vast building to put it out. However, this specificity isn't needed in a small boutique where a conventional system will be perfectly fine. There are several points to keep in mind:
- Types of Buildings that Need a Fire Alarm System;
- Type of Fire Alarm System for Your Business;
- Total Budget for Commercial Fire Alarm System;
- Installation Deadline;
- Local Codes and Regulations;
- Architectural Drawings of the Building.
Before purchasing an alarm, we recommend doing your research and analyzing your space. Our comprehensive guide on commercial fire alarms can help you to make a decision, but the best option will be to consult with security professionals. Trust us - they know best.
Knowing the types of fire alarm systems is great when looking to equip your space with a new alarm network. With every home, store, and warehouse needing these trusty devices to protect both the property and the people within it, it's well worth it to do a bit of research. If you’re unsure which type of commercial fire alarm system is right for your business, Forbel is here to help. Contact us at 847-595-1900 today to find your new system and experts to handle fire alarm installation!
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Faq
What are the differences between smoke detectors and fire detectors?
Smoke detectors are designed to specifically detect smoke presence in the air, a key indicator of a fire. Fire detectors, a broader category, include various types of detection devices like smoke, heat, and flame detectors. Each type of fire detector is specialized to identify different signs of a fire, such as smoke, a rapid increase in temperature, or actual flames.
How important are carbon monoxide detectors in a fire detection system?
Carbon monoxide detectors are crucial in a fire detection system because they can detect carbon monoxide gas, which is often produced in fires. They’re especially important in enclosed spaces where this odorless and colorless gas can accumulate quickly, posing a serious health risk to the building's occupants.
Can air conditioning systems affect the performance of fire detectors?
Yes, air conditioning systems can affect the performance of fire detectors. They can alter the distribution and flow of smoke and heat, potentially delaying the detection of a fire. It's important to consider the placement of fire detectors in relation to air conditioning vents and units to ensure effective fire detection.
What role do electrochemical cells play in fire detection?
Electrochemical cells in fire detectors are used primarily for detecting gasses like carbon monoxide. They work by producing a chemical reaction that generates an electrical current when specific gasses are present, thus triggering the fire alarm. This makes them extremely useful in detecting fires that produce toxic gases.
What is the purpose of pull stations in fire alarm systems?
Pull stations, also known as manual call points, are an essential component of a fire alarm system. They allow individuals to manually initiate the fire alarm in case of an emergency. This is particularly important in scenarios where the automatic detection hasn’t yet activated the alarm, allowing for a quicker response to the presence of a fire.
How do fixed temperature detectors function in fire alarm systems?
Fixed temperature detectors in fire alarm systems are designed to activate when the ambient temperature reaches a preset level, indicating the presence of a fire. These detectors are reliable in environments where rapid temperature rise indicates a fire hazard and provides an essential safety measure.
What are the considerations for installing a new fire alarm system in a building?
When installing a new fire alarm system, considerations should include the size and layout of the building, the type of fire hazards present, the need for integration with other safety systems, and compliance with local fire safety regulations. Additionally, make sure to consider the budget for installation and ongoing maintenance.
What are the different types of fire detectors and their applications?
The different types of fire detectors include smoke detectors, heat detectors, flame detectors, and gas detectors. Each type has specific applications based on the environment they are used in. For example, smoke detectors are commonly used in residential and commercial buildings, while flame detectors are more suited for industrial environments where visible flames may occur.
What are initiating devices in fire alarm systems, and how do they work?
Initiating devices in fire alarm systems are components that trigger the alarm. These include automatic detectors like smoke and heat detectors, as well as manual devices like pull stations. They work by detecting fire indicators (like smoke or heat) or through manual activation to alert occupants and emergency services of a fire.
