While generally reliable, wired fire alarm systems can be more difficult and costly to install, especially in existing buildings, and may be less flexible for future expansion or modification than wireless systems. They can also present aesthetic challenges if the wiring is not properly concealed.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown from anka security:
Disadvantages of Wired Fire Alarm Systems:
Installation Complexity:
Wired systems often require extensive wiring, which can involve drilling holes, running cables through walls and ceilings, and potentially disrupting the building’s structure and aesthetics.
Cost:
The initial cost of installation can be higher due to the labor and materials involved in wiring.
Retrofit Challenges:
Adding or relocating equipment in a wired system can be difficult and expensive, requiring rewiring and potentially causing disruption.
Limited Flexibility:
Adjusting or expanding a wired system to accommodate changes in building layout or operational needs can be cumbersome and require extensive rewiring.
Potential Aesthetic Impacts:
Wires and conduit can detract from a building’s appearance if not properly concealed.
Dependence on power:
While many wired systems have battery backups, they still rely on the building's electrical system, and a power outage could render them inoperable if the backup doesn't work.
Maintenance issues:
While wired systems generally require less maintenance, troubleshooting issues like faulty wires or equipment that needs to be replaced can be more complicated than with wireless systems.