In every commercial, industrial, or multi-family residential building, a good fire alarm installation is among the most critical life-safety elements. However, even top-notch equipment can fail if it is not correctly designed, installed, or serviced. At Site Connect, we have noticed that many electrical and low-voltage projects experience problems due to minor yet costly installation errors. Familiarizing yourself with these common mistakes can help you avoid downtime, false alarms, and safety hazards.
In this post, we’ll discuss how understanding these common errors can help you avoid costly downtime, false alarms, and safety risks.
Poor Planning of Zones and Coverage
One of the most common fire alarm installation mistakes is treating the fire alarm system as a single unit rather than dividing it into zones. Proper zoning allows for discerning the alarm’s origin, which greatly benefits both emergency and maintenance response times.
A perfectly configured multi-zone system provides accurate detection and limits disturbances to the surrounding environment. This is an exceptional approach, especially for multi-tenant buildings, office complexes, or facilities with different operational areas.
In our previous blog post, Multi-Zone Fire Alarm Systems: Smarter Protection for Every Project, we explained why a zoned fire detection system is necessary for fast, precise action.
Incorrect Detector Placement
If detectors are installed in locations that are too near air vents, windows, or high-humidity places such as kitchens and bathrooms, they may produce frequent false alarms or missed detections.
All devices should be set up in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and local fire laws to provide the best coverage and reliability.
It is also essential to consider the ceiling height, airflow direction, and heat source location, as these factors can affect the performance of smoke or temperature detection sensors.
Neglecting Electrical Design Coordination
Fire alarm systems rely on a continuously stable, properly distributed power supply. Electrical wiring mistakes, such as shared circuits, voltage drops, or bad grounding, may cause intermittent failure or false triggers.
That’s why cooperation between fire alarm professionals and electrical contractors remains necessary during the design and installation phases.
Overlooking Fire Alarm Code Compliance
The installation of fire alarms is subject to very stringent requirements imposed by various safety codes at both the national and local levels. Not following codes such as the National Fire Code of Canada or other local regulations can lead to fines, problems with insurance, or even the system failing during a fire evacuation.
A code-compliant system is not only a necessity to avoid penalties; it also guarantees that every part, including the control panels and detectors, will perform efficiently when required.
To keep abreast of the latest in fire alarm services standards, refer to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Lack of Regular Testing and Maintenance
Inadequate maintenance can make a perfect fire alarm installation into an ineffective one over time. The system’s ability to detect and properly alert might be affected by dust accumulation, degraded wiring, or old batteries.
To have your system functioning at its best all the time, don’t forget to:
- At least conduct detector tests twice a year to verify that alarms trigger correctly.
- Check control panels for error codes, loose wiring, or corrosion.
- Clean smoke and heat sensors with the manufacturer’s prescribed tools to prevent false alarms.
- Change backup batteries as recommended, usually every 2–3 years.
- Maintain maintenance records to comply with local fire codes and insurance requirements.
Regular inspections, coupled with professional maintenance, ensure the proper functioning of all devices and the stability of communication lines.
Fire Alarm Installation with Site Connect
At Site Connect, we provide installation, inspection, and maintenance of fire alarm systems that meet safety standards and local code requirements. Whether it’s a new construction project or an upgrade to an existing system, our team ensures every part is installed properly, from detectors and panels to wiring and power sources.
We emphasize quality installation and long-term performance. This helps property owners reduce false alarms, comply with regulations, and protect what matters most.
If you’re planning a new electrical project or need to check if your current fire alarm system meets standards, Site Connect is ready to assist you with expert electrical and safety solutions.
