So what’s the difference between the two?
As the names imply, wired fire alarm systems use cabling to transmit signals between devices and the system control panel. Wireless systems also transmit signals, but through a radio frequency.
So how do you decide which system to choose? We’ve put together a few benefits of each one.
Wired devices tend to be cheaper to buy than their wireless equivalents
Wired fire alarm systems are mains-powered, and most incorporate battery back-up in case of failure. This makes the whole system more reliable.
There’s no worry of signal interference using a wired system, which is a concern for wireless alarms.
Devices on a wireless system need to be within a certain distance of other devices and the control panel in order to maintain the connectivity. With wired fire alarms, this isn’t a problem.
As wired fire alarm systems are more common, replacement parts are easier to source.
By choosing a wireless fire alarm system, you won’t have any unsightly cabling and wires affecting the appearance of your building. Nor will you need the disruption of drilling holes in your walls and ceilings for the installation of wires.
Because there’s no wiring, you don’t need to pay for metres and metres of cabling or the man hours to install it. This is offset against the more expensive cost of individual devices.
If the cabling of a wired system is damaged, this affects the system. This isn’t a concern for wireless systems where there is no cabling in place.
Because wireless fire alarm systems take less time to install and update, there’s less disruption to your business.
Wireless devices can be easily disconnected and removed for maintenance work, or to accommodate permanent changes to your building. If a device is in need of updating, it’s easy to replace an old model with a new one, making it simpler to maintain the integrity of your system.
Of course, both systems have their different benefits and which one you choose depends on the type of building you have and what features are important or not to you.
Wireless systems tend to be more favourable in buildings where appearance matters, such as listed and historical buildings, whereas wired systems are suitable for new build premises or smaller premises where a lot of cabling isn’t needed.
For more information on the different types of fire alarms available, browse our Fire Alarms on our website or download our free Fire Alarm Buyers’ Guide.
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