The Importance of Periodic Maintenance and Service in Fire Detection and Alarm Systems.

Fire detection and alarm systems are perhaps the most important electronic security systems in our buildings and various facilities. As important as selecting the right and reliable products during the installation of the fire alarm system is operating and maintaining the system through regular maintenance after installation. Security systems that are not maintained at certain intervals cannot meet the expected requirements, and maintenance of fire detection systems is crucial. It would be wrong to expect a fire detection system that has not been maintained regularly or has not received proper service in case of malfunction to perform its duty properly during a fire. From this, we understand that fire detection systems are not “set and forget” systems. They require regular servicing and maintenance at certain intervals.

If fire alarm systems are properly designed and installed, they are generally considered to work without problems when tested and delivered after installation. However, as time goes by, technical problems begin to occur in the system due to reasons such as dirt, dust, architectural changes, mechanical changes, vandalism, etc. The problems that occur are generally shown as errors on the fire panel, in which case service must be requested and the problem must be resolved. The warning light of the device disabled on the fire panel should not be on. If a fault that requires service cannot be resolved, personnel or the service can disable this device and take it out of operation. This issue should definitely be taken care of and permission should not be given to the disabled device.

Generally, newly installed systems (2-3 years) do not present any problems if they are installed correctly. However, problems begin to develop as time goes on. In this case, the warranty for the service you have received has usually expired. In this case, you need to seek support from the company that provided the service or from an expert company that can provide support. Technically speaking, it is very important to test all detectors at least once a year. You can do this, for example, by requesting a test report for %33.3 of the detectors at each of the 3 maintenance checks performed every 4 months. This way, all detectors will have been tested in the 3 maintenance checks.

Monitoring the system is of great importance for fault detection. Your fire alarm panel should always be in an area where 24/7 active personnel are monitoring and watching over it. The panel must be continuously monitored and observed. Relevant personnel should take note of any changes on the panel and inform the service provider. In addition, you should create planned scenarios with your service provider to test whether the system works in case of a fire scenario. We recommend that planned tests be performed at least once a year. This way, you can keep your fire detection system working and your employees prepared for any negative situations.

We have mentioned the need to test all detectors at certain intervals during fire maintenance. Similarly, it is very important to test fire buttons. Fire detection panels are designed to work even in the absence of electricity. During maintenance, battery checks, which are tests to ensure the system works without electricity, must be performed. At the end of maintenance, the integration of the fire detection system with other mechanical systems must also be checked. Finally, a scenario test should be performed to complete the maintenance.

The batteries of fire panels and power supplies must be replaced every 4 years on average. Similarly, we recommend changing fire detectors after 10 years of use. After maintenance, test reports, screen shots before and after maintenance of the fire panel, and a certificate or document stating that the system is working properly after maintenance should be requested from the service provider.

Today’s fire alarm system devices and panels are completely smart devices. Service and maintenance requirements are generally indicated on the panel. In this respect, it is clear that it is easier for individuals or organizations with up-to-date fire detection and alarm systems to monitor their systems.