Fire Detection Systems

In Southern California, wildfires are unfortunately a frequent enough occurrence that property owners prioritize the installation of fire detection systems as one of several measures to protect their home or building.  There are two major types of systems that detect fire, alert the building occupant to seek safety, and report out to emergency responders.

Conventional Fire Alarm Systems:  Generally considered the more affordable option, a conventional fire alarm system is just what it sounds like.  When there’s fire, an alarm sounds and local emergency services are alerted.

The alarm is triggered by one of several “alarm link devices,” usually in the form of call points and smoke detectors, and each are wired separately to the main control panel.

Addressable Fire Alarm System:  The difference here is that the devices are connected on one loop that circles back to the control panel.  Each device on the system has its own unique “address.”  This comprehensive wiring and the associated software allow the system to pinpoint which device triggered the alert, thus giving responders a better idea of where the fire is.

Determining which system is better for your building boils down to cost and the size of your building.   A larger building would be best equipped with an addressable fire alarm system so the location of a fire can be quickly targeted and put out.  But, while a conventional system is generally less expensive initially, the need to wire between each device and the control panel can mean a longer and more difficult installation process. Conversely, the one wire loop of an addressable system saves on wire and installation time.  Further, should a device be disconnected, the loop—acting as a series circuit—preserves the connection of all the other devices to the control panel.

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So, for a smaller home or office, a conventional system would likely suffice as well as save expense at its initial purchase. 
But for larger buildings in which more wiring and devices would be required for adequate coverage throughout, an addressable system is probably worth the investment for long term reliability and functionality.
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Jorge CortezContractor and Owner
California Landscape Licensed Contractor. Having grown up right here in Santa Barbara, Jorge Cortez graduated from Dos Pueblos High School in 2007 and went on to join the United States Marine Corps. After completing a tour in Afghanistan and receiving an honorable discharge, Cortez continued his education at Santa Barbara City College. Today, with over fifteen years of experience in landscape maintenance, he combines his passion for the land with his business acumen as owner of SB Evolution Landscape.
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