In our last blog, we defined and pointed out some differences between single station and system smoke detection devices. Now let’s turn our attention to what’s involved with the installation of these devices. Labor is usually the biggest cost in installation, so how much labor does it take to install smoke alarms and smoke detectors? [Read More]
What Are My Residential Smoke Detection Options? (Part 1)
When an apartment building or condominium is built or renovated, an option overlooked by many designers of record is using a system detector instead of a single station smoke alarm in the dwelling units. As with many choices, cost is usually a primary concern. However, the overall cost of the choice is only one consideration [Read More]
Can I Save Money With Wireless Smoke Detectors?
One of the newer methods of installing fire alarm devices involve the use of wireless detectors and audio/visual devices. Before considering whether to utilize these devices, a designer of record should verify the local jurisdiction allows these devices to be used. For example, Section 907.6.1 of the 2020 Chicago Building Code allows these devices to [Read More]
Do single station smoke alarms have low frequency sounders?
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NFPA 72 now requires a 520 hz square wave fire alarm signal in smoke detector sounder bases provided for publicly available sleeping areas. The 520 hz tone has been shown as more effective in waking people of a certain age (ahem), deep sleepers or those that may have had a few too many the night [Read More]
If I Have Sprinklers, Do I Also Need Smoke Detectors? Part 2
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In our previous blog on this subject, we addressed whether smoke detectors are required in business, healthcare and assembly occupancies if they have sprinklers installed. In this edition, we’ll look at general requirements for educational and residential occupancies, based on the IBC/IFC and NFPA 101. As mentioned in Part 1, it’s important to remember that sprinklers are [Read More]
Can Fire Alarm System Smoke Detectors Replace 120 VAC Smoke Detectors?
When it comes to renovations of multi-residential buildings or transient occupancies (hotels, SROs, etc.), one of the considerations that designers of record has is long term costs to the owner. An item the often gets overlooked are the living unit smoke detectors. Most assume that local, 120 vac powered (AKA ‘single station’) smoke detectors [Read More]
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