Differences Between Conventional and Addressable Fire Alarm Systems in Toronto

Fire alarm systems are essential for the early detection of fire emergencies. The two types of fire alarm systems commonly used in commercial and industrial buildings in Toronto are conventional and addressable fire alarm systems. In this article, we are going to take a look at the differences between addressable and conventional fire alarm systems, their features, and factors to consider when choosing the right option for your needs.

Conventional Fire Alarm System vs. Addressable Fire Alarm System: Definitions

All fire alarm systems rely on a control panel to communicate with the field devices, like pull stations or smoke detectors. This fire alarm control panel acts as the “brains” of the system, alerting the building occupants of a fire and signaling the sprinkler system has activated when there is a release of water. However, the exact method of how the detection devices communicate with the control panel varies depending on the system type. 

What Is a Conventional Fire Alarm System?

Conventional fire alarm systems are the traditional option common in smaller or low-complexity buildings. Conventional alarm systems consist of multiple fire detection devices connected to a central control panel. The detectors are divided into zones, each corresponding to a specific area or floor of the building. A fire detected in a particular zone activates the relevant zone indicator in the control panel, which provides a general idea of the fire’s location.

What Is an Addressable Fire Alarm System?

Addressable fire alarm systems are more advanced and are ideal for larger, complex buildings or facilities. With addressable systems, each fire detection device (heat detectors, smoke detectors, or manual pull stations) is assigned a unique address. This enables the control panel to identify the exact location of the activated device, making it easier for emergency responders to locate and eliminate the fire quickly.

Key Differences Between Conventional and Addressable Fire Alarm Systems

1. Wiring Architecture

One major difference between addressable and conventional fire alarm systems is their wiring. Conventional systems’ zones take the form of radial circuits, the devices are connected to the circuit and communicate supervision through an end of line resistor. The resistor provides a resisted voltage and allows to the panel to supervise the circuit by seeing the resisted voltage return to the panel.  In an addressable alarm system, on the other hand, the control panel communicates with multiple detection devices located within the same field. The supervision of the device is through data communication and the wiring layout is more flexible and often times less costly.

2. System Scalability

Another difference between conventional fire alarm systems and addressable systems is how scalable they are. Addressable fire alarms are much more scalable than conventional options, as an addressable system can handle any number of devices. Conventional alarm systems, on the other hand, are limited by the number of zones the control panel can support.

3. Alarm System Functionality

Another key difference between addressable vs. conventional fire alarm systems is how they function. Conventional systems are hardware-based and use analog technology. Within this system, various zones are connected to the larger control panel through individual circuits. This means that the amount of information the panel can receive is limited by the number of supported devices.

Addressable fire alarm systems, on the contrary, rely on binary communication. The information is transferred to the main control panel through ones and zeros computed by “mini computers.” This information enables the control panel to pinpoint the exact location of a fire in the building.

4. Installation Cost

While a conventional system itself will usually cost less than an addressable system, the installation cost for a conventional system will be higher due to the extensive wiring in the system. 

Even though the price of addressable fire alarm systems is higher, they are easier and cheaper to install. An addressable system also reduces the risk of false alarms that can lead to costly repairs.

5. Fire Alarm System Application

Because conventional fire alarm systems work by zones rather than individual detector devices, they are typically used for smaller, low-complexity buildings. For a larger building, an addressable system would function better, as it can provide a specific location where a fire has been detected. This is critical for larger buildings where a fire may be difficult to locate.

6. Possibility of False Fire Alarms

In a conventional fire alarm system, there is a risk of dust and contaminants triggering the alarm when there is no real fire. In case of an alarm, there is no way to determine whether there is a real issue until the first responders arrive.

Addressable systems are more reliable when it comes to false alarms, as they send critical information directly to the control panel. The panel is constantly monitoring the detectors’ sensitivity levels to make sure the devices aren’t triggered by accident.

7. Safety Considerations

Because addressable fire alarm systems are able to identify the exact location of a fire threat, they offer a higher level of safety than conventional alarm systems. They integrate alarm, trouble, and supervisory signals to deliver clear, targeted instructions to occupants during an emergency. Plus, by significantly reducing the frequency of false alarms, these systems help ensure that when an alert is triggered, it’s taken seriously.

Which Fire Alarm System Is Best for Your Toronto Property? 

While conventional fire alarm systems have serious limitations in their abilities to protect larger buildings, they are still used for small buildings or by customers who aren’t ready to upgrade yet. 

Addressable systems generally provide higher levels of fire safety by identifying the exact location of fire in the building and enabling a speedy and accurate fire extinguishment. This means that, if you have a large or complex building that requires fire protection, installing an addressable fire alarm system is a must.

Fire Safety Compliance and Installation in Toronto 

Selecting the right fire alarm system isn’t just about protection – it’s also about compliance. In Toronto, the Ontario Fire Code requires that all fire alarm systems be installed, inspected, and maintained by certified professionals to ensure the safety of building occupants. 

At FSS Canada, we specialize in designing and installing fire safety systems in Toronto that align with both your building’s unique layout and current fire detection technology standards. Get in touch with us to learn more about addressable vs. conventional fire alarms and book fire alarm installation or maintenance services.