Modernizing Infrastructure: Fire Alarm Upgrades

Fire alarm upgrades are a routine and often required part of building management. They typically involve replacing the system without disrupting safety, are relatively affordable compared to other upgrades, and require minimal unit access. With proper planning and a qualified engineer, the process is straightforward, minimally invasive, and improves overall building safety.

Fire alarm upgrades are a common and often required part of building management, usually driven by safety evaluations, system failures, or related upgrades. Although they may seem daunting, these projects are typically straightforward and far less disruptive than expected.

Upgrades usually involve replacing the entire system while keeping the existing one active, ensuring continuous protection. Costs are relatively low compared to other major building projects, especially when designed by a qualified engineer. Unit access is minimal and well-coordinated, with brief visits for installation, testing, and inspection.

With proper planning and expert guidance, fire alarm upgrades are a practical way to improve safety and maintain compliance without significant hassle.
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Modernizing Infrastructure: Fire Alarm Upgrades

THE TRUTH ABOUT FIRE ALARM UPGRADES
A fire alarm upgrade is an inevitable part of building management, and there are several reasons why a building may be required to upgrade its fire alarm system. The reasons often are that it’s required to pass a fire and life safety evaluation (FLSE), it’s required to upgrade the sprinkler system, or the old system cannot be repaired. Condominium associations might dread this seemingly daunting task, but it may be easier than you think. Let’s ease those fears by exploring how fire alarm systems are installed and discuss common concerns such as cost, unit scheduling, and invasiveness.
 
THE REPLACEMENT PROCESS
Fire alarm upgrades are common practice, and the methods are well-established. A fire alarm upgrade is usually a complete replacement of the entire system. Since a building cannot be without a fire alarm system during construction, the new system is installed alongside the old system, then the old system is removed. The new system will have speakers inside of the units to meet modern sound-level requirements. The wiring is typically routed on the surface of the walls in plastic molding. If units contain features such as soffits, the wiring may be concealed inside.
 
COST INSIGHTS
A fire alarm upgrade is typically only a fraction of the cost of other major system upgrades, such as installing fire sprinklers, elevator modernizations, or plumbing replacements. For example, a fire alarm system typically runs about one-seventh the cost of a fire sprinkler installation. This is because most of the cost of the system is the labor associated with installing wiring. Installing wiring is much easier (and cheaper) than installing pipes. An important caveat is to make sure you hire an experienced and qualified engineer to design the fire alarm system, as the design can affect the cost significantly.
 
SMOOTH UNIT SCHEDULING
Unit scheduling for upgrades is nothing to fear if you’re prepared and use an experienced and qualified contractor. We’ve had systems installed in thousands of units and the vast majority are accessed without any notable issues. A responsible contractor will give plenty of advanced notice, provide notices to post at the building, and work with the building management for any special exceptions to scheduling.
 
INSTALLATION WITHOUT THE HASSLE
The upgrade process is also generally not as invasive than expected, as units typically need to be entered by the contractor just three times throughout the project: once for installing the speakers/wiring, once for testing, and once for the inspection. Residents usually don’t need to leave and the contractor is in and out within an hour.
 
UPGRADE FOR SAFETY
Proactive upgrades and repairs to aging fire alarm systems can help keep a building operating safely and efficiently while avoiding costly surprises. If your building has an older fire alarm system, now is the time to prepare for an upgrade. Start by consulting a qualified engineer to estimate probable costs and guide your budget. The engineer can help design the system, submit necessary permits, and solicit bids from contractors. Selecting a trusted engineer is critical, as their design choices can significantly affect both cost and effectiveness. Remember: with proper preparation and expert guidance, fire alarm upgrades can be straightforward and give you peace of mind about building safety.