If you’re unsure what maintenance your fire alarm system needs, here are some tips to help you out.
Do you know the condition of your fire alarm system right now? If you don’t, then you need to figure that out as soon as possible because you don’t want to be found with a malfunctioning fire alarm system in the middle of a fire emergency. Proper maintenance is vital for both knowing how your alarm system is doing, and when you need to either replace it or get it fixed. If you’re unsure what maintenance your fire alarm system needs, here are some tips to help you out.
Check Your Alarm System’s Age
You should know how old your fire alarm system is at all times. The age of your alarm system helps determine how much maintenance it will require. Alarm systems that are fewer than 5 years of age won’t need a lot of maintenance. Typically, any malfunctions in these systems are caused by either voltage transients or improper installation procedures.
Once your alarm system is around 10-15 years old, it could start to malfunction if you haven’t been maintaining it well. The risk of malfunctioning only increases as its age gets closer to 20 years. By keeping track of the age of your alarm system, you’ll know when it’s time for you to get a new one.
Maintaining Your Fire Alarm System
There are many maintenance procedures you should get done for your fire alarm system, and the frequency at which these tasks are done will vary. You should see if your system is working perfectly on a daily basis. If you notice any failures in it, they should be documented and then addressed.
Each week, you’ll want to test a minimum of one detector call point, and you’ll want to test any flame and smoke detectors as well. If your system has greater than 13 zones, you should test multiple zones each week. Another weekly task includes reporting any defects in your system, and then appointing the right person in your building to fix the issue.
There are also annual tasks that should be carried out. First off, your alarm system should be reviewed by someone who is experienced at inspecting it. Part of this review should include ensuring your smoke detectors operate properly. You also need to schedule an inspection for your equipment and cable fittings, just to be sure they haven’t been damaged, and that they are secure. Once you have done all of the necessary fixes and testing, get a certificate of testing to prove that you’ve carried out all of the needed inspections and maintenance tasks.
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Anderson Fire Protection, Inc. has the expertise and skill to help your home or commercial property for all your fire protection needs. We have been working in the Maryland, Northern Virginia, Southern Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C. areas for over 25 years. We are known for our top-notch customer service and high-quality results. If you are ready for fantastic fire prevention and protection services, from fire sprinkler installation to fire alarm design and to consult, give us a call at (410) 796-4915 or visit us online.