.jpg)
Wireless Smoke Alarms
Wireless smoke alarms are where each individual alarm operates by itself. However, wireless smoke alarms are usually interconnected, not physically, but via radio transmission in-between.This can be a great way to go as it optimises the chances you will be alerted to the outbreak of fire.
If you are too far away from the alarm nearest the source of the fire, you will still be alerted by all the other alarms which will go off simultaneously.
Although, as the name “wireless” might suggest there is no wiring, a wireless alarm can be either connected to the mains supply or simply battery operated. Wireless doesn’t mean the alarm is battery operated only.
Of course it’s important that being radio connected the system does not go off as a result of any radio frequency intervention other than a fire.
Good systems are designed to circumvent such eventualities. After all, there’s nothing worse than “crying wolf”. When a real fire occurs the worst that can happen is the occupants are more lethargic in their reactions whilst they consider whether it’s worth evacuating the premises or not.
A more common feature amongst wireless smoke alarms is a voice message which is emitted in lieu of the more typical high pitched tone that is common in many alarm systems.
But, unless you run a boarding house, the high pitched sound of a fire alarm is very prominent, and difficult to mistake, such that the need for a message system may be somewhat mute.
That said, they say children are more reactive to voice instructions than to high pitched shrill noises.
There are one or two other difficulties associated with wireless alarm systems. One of the difficulties relates to security of the alarm system itself.
Just as with Smartphone’s, criminals are able to hack into wireless alarm systems to switch them off. This activity is mainly aimed at disarming burglar alarm systems as a perquisite to breaking into a home. But the activity also impacts smoke alarm systems.
Of course, if you’re installing a wireless system simply because you’re a "latest technology" freak, then, like all other latest technology products, they’re liable to continuous advancement and, no sooner have you installed the latest state-of-the-art system, than the technology has already advanced to the next stage.
To be honest, it’s very difficult to beat the good old sturdy DIY alarm system. Provided the alarms are manufactured by a reliable manufacturer, and you maintain and service your alarms regularly, then these alarms are as effective as anything else.
Make sure you install sufficient alarms throughout your home. We believe there should be one alarm in each room. Personally, I don’t mind if an alarm goes off falsely because of smoke but it irritates me if they go off because of any other reason (e.g. a false radio frequency).
Another factor you will need to consider with a wireless smoke alarm system is the age, and build type, of your home.
Just as with wireless internet, wireless alarms can have difficulty penetrating certain home build materials to transmit their alert signal.
Old fashioned stone built houses, for example, prevent wireless alarm systems from communicating effectively given that many frequencies find it very difficult to penetrate through stone. You must check this out if you go the wireless route.
Where there is no impediment to the frequency transmissions then an interesting extension of the wireless system is where it is are linked to an off-site monitoring station.
These operate 24/7 and are great remote surveillance operations which will keep a watchful eye over your property when you are away from home.
They will alert the emergency services in your absence. Of course, there is an ongoing monthly charge for this service, in addition to the purchase of the alarm system itself, the installation, as well as the ongoing periodic maintenance.
With wireless systems you also want to ensure it comes with quality parts. You don’t want it to be easy for intruders to tamper with your system. And you don’t want dozens of false alarms every time a plane flies overhead.
Quality wireless systems can be very attractive but, like all systems, need regular ongoing care and maintenance. If budget is an issue you will find that good self-install battery operated systems can be very effective.
And, after your purchase, should you need it, we provide our own unique personal follow up customer care, at this site, in addition to the follow up care you receive from the manufacturer (when you click on the contact link below).
.