Accidents happen, don’t they? Even if you have spent time and money preparing for all possibilities you can think of, a misfortune can still befall you. As reliable as it is, an intelligent fire alarm system can still fail. So, what are five manual remedies you can take if your intelligent fire alarm does not work?
This post focuses on aggressive manual actions you should take to get your fire alarm system working again.
Reset the Fire Alarm System
If there’s a problem with your intelligent fire alarm system, the first and probably the most straightforward solution you can try is to reboot the system. This fire alarm system’s “intelligent” part is the constant communication among the devices and the control panel. Sometimes, a bug can hinder the communication between the system, and simply resetting it can fix the problem. The control panel of an intelligent fire alarm system is very computer-like in its functions. And just like a computer, rebooting the system when it gets buggy is an ideal first option. Don’t just focus on the control panel, however. The devices connected to the control panel might also need rebooting. But what if you reset the system, and it still doesn’t seem to work?
Examine the Connections Between the Devices and the Control Panel
If rebooting the system does not work, perhaps the devices are not connected to the control panel. Ensure that the connections are firmly seated where they should be. Also, check for loose wires while you are at it. If there are loose wires, you can either repair them or change the unit altogether. You will have to open the fire alarm to check if the connections are in their appropriate places. If you don’t have the technical ability to accomplish such tasks, it’s best to seek the help of professionals. A regular fire alarm inspection by an expert is necessary, anyway.
Check the Batteries of Every Unit
Does your fire alarm system go off even though there’s not the slightest sign of a fire? One potential cause of these occurrences is not enough to charge the batteries. The presence of smoke within the vicinity of smoke detectors reduces their current. When the electrical current of the smoke detector goes down, the sensor recognizes that event as smoke and will go off.
When your smoke detector’s power sources are running low on charge, the current flowing through the smoke detector also goes down. Therefore, you get false fire alarms. If you are electrically proficient, you can use an electronic multi-tester to see if the batteries are working. If you don’t have a multi-tester, you can use your tongue to see if the battery has enough charge. The most common types of batteries for fire alarm devices are 9-volt batteries. These are brick-looking batteries with two nubs on one end. Touch that end with your tongue, and if you receive a harmless shock, the battery is good to go.
If the battery tests indicate that it has no charge, or if you’d rather play it safe and make no tests at all, replace the batteries. To prevent the device from running low on charge, you should change the batteries every six months or so.
Inspect Location of Fire Alarm System Devices
Another cause of a fire alarm system going off even when there is no rogue fire is that the devices are placed inappropriately. If the detectors are directly above heat sources, they will recognize that source of heat as a threat. If your smoke detector is anywhere too close to your bathroom, a hot shower can cause it to sound the alarm because it recognizes steam as smoke. Proper planning goes a long way in the initial setup of any fire alarm system. To avoid having to make changes once the system is installed, it is best practice to consult experts such as the staff of Protekfs.
Ensure Devices are Assembled Properly
An improperly assembled fire alarm device can function erratically. It can cause the system to go off randomly or not go off when you need it to sound the alarm. It is practically useless. The proper assembly of intelligent fire alarm system devices includes the housing and the electronic components. You will need essential technical know-how, at the very least, to identify the mistakes in the assembly of your fire alarm system devices. Again, if you don’t have that knowledge, it’s best to leave the inspection to professionals.
Clean Each Fire Alarm System Unit
Dirt and dust can easily prevent your system from doing its job. An intelligent fire alarm system can sometimes tell you where the problem is. Find out which device is malfunctioning, and try to clean it. But to be safe and sure, clean all devices. Clean the appliances both inside and outside to ensure nothing hinders their sensors.
Replace the Units
What if you have already done all of the previous manual remedies and still got no favorable results? If this particular scenario applies to you, then you might have to replace the units of your intelligent fire alarm system. You can try replacing each faulty unit or device in the system. But if the problem is the entire system, installing a new system altogether might be more economical. There are two reasons you might have to replace the units or the system. The first is that intelligent fire alarm devices have a limited lifespan. They will eventually wear out sooner or later (if not maintained properly). The second reason is that they are just not the best quality.
For an investment that protects you from something as damaging as uncontrolled fire, you have to ensure you get the best quality intelligent fire alarm system. Protekfs is the best fire protection agency there is. Make sure to protect your home or business with only the best; contact Protekfs today to get a consultation. You can contact us through telephone at 801-7181055 or email at ap@protekfs.com. Alternatively, visit our office at Protek Fire and Systems 3520 W, Galaxy Park Pl Suite 100, West Jordan, Utah 84088.
