Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Alarm Systems & Maintenance
1. What is the purpose of a fire alarm system?
A fire alarm system combines different types of detection of smoke, heat, and fire with the purpose of saving lives in the case of a fire. The system alerts the system monitoring company, the proper authorities, and the occupants to take action as a fire is starting or if there is smoke that could become a fire.
2. What are the advantages of fire alarm systems?
A fire alarm system provides much more protection than having individual smoke detectors. According to a Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) survey of households with occurrences of fires, homes with interconnected smoke detectors on every floor were 11-22% more likely to alert occupants in the case of a fire than in houses with individual smoke detectors. The system also alerts the authorities, which saves lives in the case that the occupant is unaware of the fire or unable to reach the phone. A fire alarm system is a requirement for many commercial buildings.
3. Are fire alarm inspections required?
Yes, federal and local law requires periodic fire alarm inspection and maintenance.
4. How often do fire alarms need to be inspected?
Fire alarm systems must be tested annually by licensed technicians. Suppression systems must be tested every six months. In a large building, you may need monthly inspections scheduled in order to test a different zone every time. In order for your fire alarm system to remain effective and up to code, it is recommended to hire a fire system maintenance company such as Palmer Electric to perform required periodic maintenance and repairs upon inspection.
5. What is the best place to put a smoke detector?
According to National Fire Protection Association Standards, smoke detectors should be placed on every level of the home, in every bedroom, and outside each sleeping area. Other important areas to install smoke detectors are: no more than 10 feet from cooking appliances, in the living room, and by the basement ceiling near the stairs. The smoke detector should be placed near the ceiling with no more than 12 inches from the top of the smoke alarm to the ceiling.
6. How often do smoke detectors need to be tested?
Smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month using the test button. Smoke detectors with replaceable batteries should be replaced at least once per year. Follow the manufacturer instructions for testing and maintaining the smoke detector.
7. How does Palmer Electric’s UL-certified fire alarm monitoring work for multi-site businesses?
Palmer Electric provides UL-certified fire alarm monitoring for multi-site businesses through dedicated, secure accounts for each location. Every facility is connected to our monitoring center, which operates 24/7 to detect alarms and dispatch emergency services immediately when needed. This setup ensures that each site is monitored individually while giving your organization centralized reporting and control.
Our team manages the entire process, from installation and setup to compliance testing and ongoing maintenance. Whether you operate a few locations or dozens across Central Florida, our UL-certified monitoring system ensures that every building meets NFPA and local fire safety codes.
Protect your business with confidence. Request a free estimate by calling 407-646-8700 or filling out the contact form.
8. Does Palmer Electric install and maintain NFPA-compliant fire alarm systems for schools?
Yes, Palmer Electric installs and maintains NFPA-compliant fire alarm systems for schools and educational facilities throughout Central Florida. Our licensed electricians and fire alarm specialists ensure every system meets state and local safety codes, including required testing, inspection, and documentation.
We design and service systems that protect students, staff, and property, integrating smoke detection, notification devices, and monitoring services for complete coverage. With decades of experience working with school districts and public facilities, Palmer Electric provides reliable, code-compliant fire protection solutions tailored to each campus.
Protect your school with trusted expertise. Request a free estimate by calling 407-646-8700 or filling out the contact form.
9. Can Palmer Electric integrate door access control with fire alarm egress requirements?
Yes, Palmer Electric can integrate door access control systems with fire alarm egress requirements to ensure safety, compliance, and convenience. Our commercial electricians and low-voltage specialists design systems that automatically unlock designated doors when fire alarms activate, meeting NFPA and local building code requirements.
We coordinate access control, alarm, and security components to work together seamlessly. This integration not only improves emergency response but also maintains secure entry management during normal operations. Palmer Electric provides both the technical expertise and compliance assurance needed for commercial buildings, schools, and healthcare facilities.
Protect your facility with professional integration. Request a free estimate by calling 407-646-8700 or filling out the contact form.
10. Is Palmer Electric certified to service Notifier or Honeywell fire alarm systems?
Yes, Palmer Electric is fully certified to service, maintain, and inspect Notifier and Honeywell fire alarm systems. Our licensed fire alarm technicians are trained in manufacturer-specific procedures, allowing us to troubleshoot, repair, and upgrade these systems while preserving their UL certification and code compliance.
We provide annual testing, monitoring, and documentation in accordance with NFPA standards to ensure your fire alarm system functions properly and passes all inspections. Whether you operate a school, healthcare facility, or commercial property, Palmer Electric has the expertise to keep your fire alarm network reliable and up to code.
Protect your property with certified professionals. Request a free estimate by calling 407-646-8700 or filling out the contact form.