A fire alarm is a must-have when it comes to protecting your home or business premises, not just the building but the people inside it as well.

Having the right system in place means that a fire can be identified early, alerting those in the building to the risk and giving them sufficient time to evacuate and/or act. But one area that many remain unsure about, even with the fire safety regulations in place, is the ideal location for a fire alarm and where these systems are best placed for maximum effectiveness.

So, we asked fire alarm installers in Essex where they would recommend positioning a domestic and commercial fire alarm, and how to select the best system for your building or premises.

Best Locations for a Fire Alarm in Your Home

One of the biggest tips when it comes to installing a fire alarm in your home is to steer clear of direct contact with kitchen appliances. The number of false alarms caused by hot ovens and stoves is incredibly high, which is why it’s best to site fire alarms at least 10 feet from cooking appliances.

Homeowners should have a fire alarm on every floor of their property and should position them on and around the landings outside bedrooms and living spaces. If you have an open fire in the home, positioning a fire alarm in the room where the fire is located is a good idea.

For a small property, having a fire alarm in the hallway of each floor is usually enough coverage.

Understanding the Different Fire Alarm Systems

When we talk to clients about fire alarms and fire alarm systems, most of them think about the small circular boxes that are mounted to the ceiling, with a flashing light and a beeping sound when they detect smoke. 

But it’s a little more complex than that. 

When fitting a fire alarm system, clients have a choice between conventional and addressable systems. Conventional systems are the standard smoke alarms found in most homes, with a control panel letting you know the area in which the alarm has been activated. These types of systems are also suitable for small offices and commercial premises.

Addressable systems are more comprehensive and can let you know exactly which alarm has been triggered. For this reason, large buildings and sites tend to use addressable systems, owing to the extensive information provided.

Selecting and Installing the Right System

All things considered, the right fire alarm system for you will depend on the layout of your building or property, and the way it is used. That’s why more professional fire alarm installers will undertake a site visit ahead of any installation, assessing the best and most effective fire detection system for the space. 

For a bespoke quote and advice on installing the right system to complement your space, book in a consultation and site visit with your local team of specialists.