Choosing a fire alarm system isn’t a very exciting activity, but it can save you from plenty of unpleasant excitement down the road. The right fire alarm system in the right position can save property and lives so it’s something that you want to give considerable thought to. When choosing a fire alarm system, we advise clients to keep the following things at the forefront of their decision-making process.
Selecting a Fire Alarm System
There are two primary types of fire alarm sensors; Ionization and Photoelectric. Ionization alarm sensors detect invisible particles generated by fast moving fires, while photoelectric sensors detect visible fire particles generated by fires that smolder before erupting into flames. Each of these types of fire alarms will provide strong protection against fire, however, many manufacturers and fire professionals recommend installing both types of sensors within the home or office for maximum protection.
You may also consider installing a fixed temperature heat detectors or carbon monoxide detectors for use within areas such as kitchens or garages where engine fumes and burned dinners can sometimes trigger false alarms. The downside to using these devices is that they don’t trigger until after combustion has taken place which reduces the warning time and protective benefits.
If you have a “smart” home, you may want to consider installation of a wifi enabled smoke detector. This can provide a considerable blanket of protection and also makes it easier to respond to alarms that may trigger while you are away from the home or business. These interconnected fire alarm systems can be controlled from a smartphone, tablet, pc, etc. Some devices can even collect audio recordings that can be stored and used as evidence to show fire progression and events that occur prior to and during the evacuation of the structure.
Positioning & Maintaining Your Fire Alarm System
Fire alarm systems should be positioned so that they provide as much warning time as possible of an imminent threat. Maintaining a fire alarm system is simple and requires little more than replacing the batteries when they lose their charge and die, and replacing the fire alarm system every ten years as they typically lose their effectiveness around this time. It is also important to place fire alarm systems in positions where airflow is not restricted or unduly affected by air currents generated by fans or ventilation systems.
Residential Structures
Within residential structures, fire alarm systems should be installed in each bedroom and within the corridors of every level of the home including the basement and garage. It is also a good idea to install a fire alarm system in the kitchen and laundry room as these areas typically contain a host of flammable materials. When placing your fire alarms in these rooms, it’s advisable to place them no closer than 10 feet from cooking surfaces and washers/dryers. This will minimize “false alarms” caused by burnt steaks and vent exhaust.
Commercial Structures
Fire alarm systems should be placed in corridors and within any areas that contain flammable materials. Local fire codes related to your industry and building function will most certainly vary so it is important that you discuss placement with the Fire Marshall prior to making a final decision regarding where, how many, and the necessary functionality of your devices.
The team at 1st Alarm Home Security understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes time to choose the right fire alarm system to protect your property.
1st Alarm is one of the biggest and best security companies in the region that specializes in both residential and commercial alarm systems as well as commercial fire alarm systems. Serving Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland / Odessa, El Paso, Abilene and San Angelo, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible. We are committed to offering high quality, professional service with the utmost level of integrity. 1st Alarm is the best commercial fire alarm system company in our region as well. We have personnel trained and certified to meet your fire alarm system needs. To learn more about how our commercial fire alarm systems may be a great fit for your company, Request a Quote online or give us a call at 800-276-5559 today. You can even visit our office near you.


When you own a business, no matter how big or small, you need a monitoring system. There are great benefits in having a commercial video surveillance system that includes invaluable protection. You can choose a system from a number of different options and ensure you, your business, and your employees are protected.
Digital technology has made video surveillance camera systems affordable and easy to install. For many years, the systems were reserved for big corporations, government buildings, and wealthy homeowners, due to their high cost. Now a video camera system is a simple, cost-effective way for virtually any Midland or Odessa TX homeowner or business owner to protect property. However, many people still doubt whether it’s worth investing in video surveillance cameras because they don’t think the technology is really effective. If you’ve been on the fence about having a video surveillance system installed, consider the following benefits they offer.
Securing your Amarillo TX business, including your employees and property, should be of top priority when you’re a business owner. Using commercial security cameras and a connected monitoring system, you’ll be able to consistently check on your investment. Stay on top of security concerns, and be quick to respond to any potential threats. With a commercial security system and security cameras, your business will be secure and your employees and building will be protected.
Modern digital technology has made commercial security cameras affordable and easy to install. Once upon a time, it only made sense for major corporations to invest in surveillance cameras. Now companies of all sizes can purchase a security camera system without breaking the bank. If you’ve been on the fence about purchasing surveillance video security cameras for your business, consider the following benefits they offer.