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    Category: Fire Systems

    Fire Alarm System Maintenance Checklist

    Posted on by Saad Javaid

    When it comes to protecting the lives of your staff, your property, and your business, your fire alarm system is one of the most important safety tools in the building! But simply installing a fire alarm system isn’t going to cut it. Without regular maintenance, even the most advanced system can fail, which could result in costly fines, increased liability, or even worse, catastrophic loss during an emergency.

    Let’s go over some things that’ll help you as a business owner, facility manager, or a building operator in Arizona, as you’ll need to know how to keep your fire alarm system compliant, functional, and ready to perform when it matters most.

    Fire Alarm
    Fire Alarm System

    Why Fire Alarm Maintenance Matters ?

    Failing to maintain your fire alarm system isn’t just risky, it’s actually illegal. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 72) and local fire codes require regular testing, inspections, and servicing. Local AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction) can issue citations for non-compliance, and insurance carries may deny claims if it’s proven that your system was not properly maintained.

    At Titan Alarm & Fire, we’ve seen firsthand how routine maintenance can detect issues early, save lives, and preserve property. Our licensed fire technicians inspect thousands of systems across Phoenix, Tucson, and all of Arizona to help business owners stay compliant and most importantly, protected.

    How Often Should a Fire Alarm System Be Serviced?

    According to NFPA 72 standards and most local codes:

    • Visual Inspections: should be conducted monthly
    • Functional Testing and Device Sensitivity Checks: should occur at least annually
    • Battery Checks: are recommended semi-annually
    • Full System Inspections: are required once a year at minimum by a certified fire alarm professional.

    Depending on your occupancy type, insurance policy, or local jurisdiction, additional checks may be required quarterly or semi-annually.

    Fire Alarm System Checklist

    I’ve made a detailed checklist divided into Monthly, Semi-Annual, and Annual maintenance tasks that you can reference below. While some of these tasks can be done in-house, most require a certified fire technicians. Also remember, this is a general list, so make sure to take the advice of your local fire technician on when these tasks should be completed for your system specifically.

    Monthly Fire Alarm Maintenance Tasks

    Visual Checks:

    • Ensure control panel is powered and free of faults or trouble alerts.
    • Check for physical damage to pull stations, strobes, smoke detectors, and horns
    • Verify that manual pull stations are accessible, clearly labeled, and unobstructed
    • Ensure smoke detectors are not blocked or covered by dust, paint, or tape.
    • Confirm that notification appliances (strobes, horns) are not obstructed by shelving or signage.

    Documentation

    • Log any system trouble alerts and the steps taken to correct them.
    • Document battery voltage if using an unmonitored panel.
    • Not any alterations to the building layout that may affect alarm coverage.

    Semi-Annual Maintenance Tasks

    Battery Inspection:

    • Test and record the voltage of standby and primary batteries.
    • Ensure terminals are clean, tight, and corrosion-free
    • Replace batteries if voltage is below manufacturer specs or nearing expiration.

    Alarm Panel Diagnostics:

    • Review event history log for faults, alarms, or resets.
    • Verify communication to the monitoring center (if monitored).

    Initiating Device Testing (partial):

    • Conducting a rotating test of a portion of devices, such as smoke detectors or heat detectors, to meet rolling annual requirements.
    • Test one-third of detectors every 6 months to meet full coverage annually.

    Annual Fire Alarm Maintenance Tasks (Performed by Certified Technician)

    Control Panel Testing:

    • Simulate alarm conditions to ensure panel responds correctly.
    • Confirm supervisory and trouble signals activate as intended.

    Initiating Devices:

    • Smoke Detectors – Test using UL-approved smoke test aerosol.
    • Heat Detectors – Test with a heat gun to confirm threshold activation.
    • Pull Stations – Activate each to ensure panel response.
    • Duct Detectors – Confirm fan shutdown and alarm signal are functional.
    Fire Tech Programming Panel
    Fire Tech Programming Panel aka FACP getting inspected by titan alarm & fire technician

    Notification Appliances:

    • Activate horns, bells, chimes, and strobes throughout the building.
    • Ensure audio coverage meets NFPA audibility and visibility standards.

    System Integration Testing:

    • Confirm elevator recall, door release, HVAC shutdown, and sprinkler/suppression connections are working properly.

    Monitoring Service Validation:

    • Verify system signals are received by central station monitoring.
    • Conduct supervised line or cellular communicator tests.

    Sensitivity Testing:

    • Perform sensitivity analysis on smoke detectors to ensure they activate within the manufacturer’s threshold.

    Device Inventory Review:

    • Ensure all devices are accounted for on the system map.
    • Label new or relocated devices to reflect changes to the building.

    Code Compliance Review:

    • Confirm system aligns with current NFPA, UL, and local fire marshal requirements.

    (Remember, these checklists include general best practices for maintaining a fire alarm system, but every building and system is unique. Always consult with a licensed fire protection professional (like Titan Alarm & Fire) to ensure you’re meeting the specific requirements of your system, local codes, and insurance policies.)

    Additional Maintenance Tips

    Train Employees – Teach staff how to operate the panel, silence false alarms, and. evacuate the building.

    Keep the Panel Accessible – Do NOT block or lock access to the fire alarm control panel.

    Respond to Trouble Signals Promptly – Don’t ignore a “trouble” indicator. It’s often a good indication of a wiring issue, faulty detector, low battery, or some other issue.

    Update Your System Map – Maintain an updated zone map next to your panel to aid in quick response time.

    Work With Certified Professionals – Only licensed technicians should. perform annual inspections and repairs to remain compliant with code.

    How Titan Alarm & Fire Can Help

    Fire alarm maintenance isn’t just a legal checkbox, it’s your lifeline in an emergency. At Titan Alarm & Fire, we offer complete inspection and testing services that keep you code compliant and safe. Convenient, right? These things can often seem complicated or time consuming. That’s where Titan Alarm & Fire comes in. Leave it to the pros!

    Our fire alarm maintenance services include:

    • Full annual inspections
    • Central station monitoring
    • 24/7 emergency response
    • Troubleshooting and repairs
    • New system installations
    • AHJ compliance documentation

    We work with all major fire alarm brands including Silent Knight, Fire-Lite, Honeywell, Notifier, Bosch, and more.

    Schedule a Fire Alarm Inspection today

    Don’t wait to have your system inspected, especially if you’re unsure when it was last serviced. A fire emergency can strike at any moment, and your system needs to be ready.

    📞 Call Titan Alarm & Fire at (602) 680-4567

    📧 Email: support@titanalarm.com

    Understanding NFPA Fire Alarm Codes and Standards

    Posted on by Saad Javaid

    When it comes to protecting lives and property, there’s no room for guesswork. That’s why NFPA fire alarm codes & standards exist, to make sure systems are designed, installed, and maintained correctly across the board. Whether you’re a business owner, facility manager, or put in charge of the fire alarm system, understanding what these codes are and why they matter can help you stay compliant and way more importantly, safe.

    Now, understanding codes and legal terms from the NFPA is easier said than done. In this blog post, I’ll break down the basics of NFPA fire alarm standards, highlight the most relevant codes (in my opinion), and explain how professionals like Titan Alarm & Fire help ensure your systems meet or exceed these requirements.

    Piping
    Piping for a fire sprinkler system after installation in a commercial building.

    What is the NFPA?

    The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating death, injury, property, and economic loss due to fire, electrical, and related hazards. It was founded in 1896 and has developed more than 300 codes and standards (lots of codes and standards), many of which are used as the foundation for local fire safety laws and building codes throughout the United States.

    Not all 300+ codes relate to fire alarms, but the ones that do play a crucial role in life safety. They’re not just suggestions, they’re often enforceable by law.

    Why NFPA Fire Alarm Codes & Standards Matter

    Let’s start with the importance of having a working fire alarm in the first place. Having a functioning fire alarm system isn’t just a legal requirement, it’s a critical part of protecting your people and your business. Think about everything you’ve built and the team that helps keep it running. There’s no question that their safety is your top priority, and reliable fire alarm is one of the most important ways to safeguard them. 

    Installing a fire alarm isn’t just about buying the best device or choosing a flashy control panel. It’s about ensuring the entire system, from the detectors to the notification appliances, is installed and maintained in a way that actually works when it matters most.

    That’s where NFPA fire alarm codes & standards come in. These documents give us clear, enforceable requirements for the following:

    • How fire alarm systems are designed
    • Where devices should be placed
    • How frequently systems must be inspected and tested
    • What types of systems are required based on building type and occupancy
    • Who is qualified to perform maintenance or testing

    These standards ensure uniformity and reliability, which is vital when you’re talking about seconds that could mean the difference between life and death.

    Fire System Inspection
    Fire Inspection system after all the testing & inspection is done on them

    Key NFPA Standards for Fire Alarm Systems

    Several NFPA documents relate to fire alarm systems, but the three most critical ones include NFPA 72, NFPA 101, and NFPA 70:

    NFPA 72 – National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code

    This is the big one. NFPA 72 covers things like the installation, performance, testing, and maintenance of fire alarm systems and emergency communication systems.

    Some of the major topics covered under NFPA 72 are:

    • Placement of smoke and heat detectors
    • Types of fire alarm systems (conventional vs. addressable)
    • Required audibility levels for notification appliances
    • Inspection and testing schedules
    • Monitoring requirements

    Whether you’re setting up a new building or upgrading an older system, NFPA 72 is basically your go to guide.

    NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code

    While NFPA 72 tells you how to install and maintain a fire alarm system, NFPA 101 helps determine whether you even need one in the first place.

    This code focuses on:

    • Occupancy classification (e.g., schools, healthcare facilities, offices, etc.)
    • Minimum required features for fire protection and egress
    • Evacuation strategies and fire protection systems

    For example, a high-rise office building will have different fire alarm requirements than a small retail shop. NFPA 101 spells out what those differences are.

    NFPA 70 – National Electrical Code (NEC)

    NFPA 70 covers the electrical aspects of your fire alarm system. This includes things like wiring methods, grounding, and circuit protection. It ensures your fire alarm system is not just functional but also electrically safe and reliable.

    Common Code Requirements You Should Know

    Even if you’re not an expert, it’s still good to understand some basic NFPA code requirements. Here are a few examples you’ll find in most commercial settings:

    • Manual Pull Stations: Required in sleeping areas, near stairways, and in areas with fire alarm control units.
    • Audible/Visual Notification: Horns, strobes, or speakers must reach a certain decibel level (15 dB above ambient noise) and be visible in all occupied areas.
    • Battery Backup: Most fire alarm systems must be able to operate for 24 hours on backup power in case of a power outage.
    • Annual Inspection & Testing: Fire alarm systems must be inspected and tested at least once a year by certified professionals (like Titan techs)!
    Regular Fire Inspection
    Regular Fire Inspection getting done by a Titan alarm & fire crew member to make sure everything is working perfectly.

    Who Enforces NFPA Fire Alarm Codes & Standards?

    All of these codes are great to have, but mean nothing if there isn’t anyone regulating or enforcing them, right? Enforcement typically falls to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). This could be your local fire marshal, building inspector, or another government entity. They’ll inspect your building to ensure that all fire alarm systems meet NFPA and local code requirements.

    Failing an inspections could mean hefty fines, a forced shutdown of your business, or worse, an unsafe environment for occupants.

    How Titan Alarm & Fire Helps You Stay Compliant

    We’ve talked about inspections completed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and how important it is to pass those inspections for the safety of your people and business. How do you make sure you’re staying compliant and will pass your inspections? At Titan Alarm & Fire, we don’t just install fire alarm systems, we ensure they meet or exceed every requirement set by the NFPA fire alarm codes & standards. Here’s how we help:

    • Code-Compliant Design: Our team evaluates your property type, square footage, occupancy, and usage to design a system that will specifically align with NFPA 72 and 101.
    • Professional Installation: We use certified fire alarm technicians who understand not just the hardware, but the code behind it as well. That ensures your installation is going to be clean, compliant, and ready for inspection.
    • Regular Inspections and Testing: We offer scheduled maintenance and annual inspections that fulfill NFPA testing requirements, so you never have to worry about missing a deadline or falling out of compliance.
    • Documentation and Reporting: If the AHF asks for proof, we’ve got it. Our inspection reports are clear, detailed, and ready to submit.

    Keeping Up With NFPA Code Updates

    Just like most everything else in life, NFPA fire alarm codes & standards are updated every once in a while to reflect new technology and improved safety practices. For example, the 2022 edition of NFPA 72 introduced changes related to cyber security for fire alarm control units and expanded guidelines on intelligible voice evacuation systems.

    That’s why working with an experienced company like Titan Alarm & Fire is crucial. We stay current so you don’t have to. It’s a lot to keep up with when it’s not your main focus.

    Final Thoughts: Protect People, Property, and Peace of Mind

    NFPA fire alarm codes & standards aren’t just rules, they’re vital guidelines that are designed to save lives. No matter your position in your company, if you’re reading this, you’re seeking a better understanding of these codes, which will help you make informed/safe decisions.

    At Titan Alarm & Fire, our job is to understand these codes and help your system stay compliant. We live by these codes when we design, install, and maintain fire alarm systems.

    Need help with fire alarm code compliance? Let Titan Alarm & Fire handle the complexity so you can focus on what matters. Contact us today for a free consultation.

    📞 Call Titan Alarm & Fire at (602) 680-4567

    📧 Email: support@titanalarm.com

    Fire Alarm Maintenance Can Cut Insurance Costs

    Posted on by Taylor

    As a business owner, you know how important it is to protect your assets and minimize expenses. One critical yet often overlooked aspect of risk management is fire alarm maintenance, which helps you keep occupants safe, comply with safety regulations, lower the risk of fire-related damage and save you on insurance premiums. When you opt for routine fire alarm maintenance, you keep your system functioning to protect your property from damage — making your business an attractive candidate for lower rates. 

    Read on to explore how routine fire alarm maintenance can improve your safety and cut insurance costs, and steps for implementing an effective fire alarm maintenance program.

    The Connection Between Fire Alarm Maintenance and Insurance Costs 

    For commercial property owners, the importance of fire alarm systems and maintenance extends beyond their immediate role in fire detection and safety. These systems also influence insurance premium costs. As insurance companies assess risks associated with insuring your property, having a well-functioning fire alarm system can play a pivotal role in lowering your insurance costs.

    Insurance Premium Reduction

    The relationship between fire alarm systems and insurance premiums is grounded in risk mitigation. Insurance companies strive to minimize risk and, in turn, view fire alarm systems as essential in preventing or reducing the severity of fires. Consequently, they typically deem properties with effective firm alarms low risk, reflecting lower insurance premiums.

    For example, say you’re a retail shop owner who regularly maintains your fire alarm system, experiencing fewer false alarms and actual fire incidents. The proactive approach leads to a clean claims history over three years, prompting your insurer to reduce premiums by 25% during the policy renewal process. By investing in proactive fire alarm maintenance plans, you save money in the long run to reinvest in your business.

    Is a Smoke Detector a Fire Alarm for Insurance Purposes?

    While smoke detectors play a crucial role in fire safety, they are not considered equivalent to fire alarms for insurance purposes. Commercial smoke alarms are designed to detect smoke and signal an alarm when smoke is present but often cannot immediately notify emergency services. 

    In contrast, fire alarm systems are more comprehensive, featuring smoke detectors, heat sensors, manual pull stations and notification devices. Many are connected to a monitoring service to notify emergency responders. Insurers typically offer lower premiums or special discounts and incentives for properties equipped with robust fire alarm systems than those with only smoke detectors. 

    Importance of Fire Alarm Maintenance 

    Fire alarm maintenance can help protect your property and assets, comply with safety regulations and prevent costly penalties. The following are the benefits of maintaining your fire alarm system and steps you can follow to meet regulations.

    Fire Safety and Prevention

    Well-functioning commercial fire alarm systems play a key role in preventing fire damage by detecting smoke, heat or flames and sending out alerts before the fire spreads. These systems include smoke and heat sensors, which can detect the first signs of a fire and help occupants evacuate the building in time. Many systems also integrate with sprinkler systems to control flames and notify emergency services.

    However, the fire protection granted to your business is only as good as your fire alarm system, so you must keep it functioning and in good condition. Over time, dust, dirt and other debris can build up inside your fire alarm detector’s sensing elements, causing it to malfunction. The system may not be sensitive enough to send out prompt warnings during a fire. Fire alarm maintenance companies can maintain and test your system to ensure its reliability in fire safety and prevention.

    Compliance With Safety Regulations

    Your business can avoid citations and fines by complying with local and national safety regulations and implementing a fire alarm maintenance program. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates that all businesses do the following to make sure fire alarm systems perform as expected:

    • Operate and maintain your system in working condition and ensure it is always on.
    • Test and adjust fire detectors and alarm systems to ensure they work correctly and reliably.
    • Replace or clean and recalibrate unreliable detectors or detectors with reduced sensitivity.
    • Properly clean dust, dirt or other particulates at regular intervals.
    • Have a qualified person service, maintain and test all fire alarm systems.

    Scheduling professional fire alarm maintenance services makes adhering to these local and national standards and avoiding costly penalties easier. Qualified technicians can inspect your system, perform routine maintenance and prevent minor issues from becoming hazardous.

    How to Implement Effective Fire Alarm Maintenance Plans 

    For business owners, investing in a comprehensive fire alarm maintenance plan can lead to substantial savings on insurance costs, prevent costly damage or penalties and reduce the risk of injuries or lawsuits in the event of a fire. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends annual fire alarm inspections, testing and maintenance to ensure your system works properly:

    • System inspections: Fire alarm service companies like Titan Alarm & Fire will come to your business and follow a comprehensive inspection checklist as outlined by OSHA and other regulatory bodies. During these inspections, they’ll identify and address common issues to ensure your fire alarm system functions correctly. 
    • Preventative maintenance plans: A professional, structured fire alarm maintenance plan is crucial in complying with safety regulations and keeping your occupants and assets safe. Only qualified technicians, especially those with specific training and certification in fire alarm systems, should install, test and maintain commercial fire alarm systems. 
    • Audits: A fire alarm system audit systematically assesses your building’s fire alarm system. The evaluation can determine its compliance with fire safety regulations and standards, the system’s effectiveness and recommended improvements.

    Selecting a reliable service provider is essential in getting quality fire alarm services. Titan Alarm & Fire will inspect your fire alarm system and its components, perform maintenance and ensure it’s up and running to protect your business and maximize cost savings.

    Partner With Titan Alarm & Fire for Expert Fire Alarm Support and Maintenance

    Ensure your fire alarm system is correctly functioning to protect your business, cut insurance costs and give you peace of mind. Titan Alarm & Fire emerged in the commercial fire and security market in 2010, safeguarding homes and businesses with reliable services and quality safety products. Our experts perform fire alarm maintenance services, including inspections, testing and troubleshooting to detect and correct potential system issues before they become expensive — and potentially life-threatening — problems.

    We take pride in being a family-owned business that is 100% local to Arizona. We look forward to partnering with you. Contact us today for expert fire alarm support and services.

    Why Do Houses Not Have Fire Sprinklers?

    Posted on by Taylor
    Fire Sprinkler

    News reports about fatal house fires are an all-too-common occurrence. In many instances, sprinkler systems could have prevented these tragic events by putting out a localized fire before it could spread throughout the home. Even if an automatically activated sprinkler does not completely extinguish a fire, it can keep it under control until the fire department arrives — and that can make the difference between life and death.

    Just how effective are residential fire sprinklers in preventing major fires? According to the U.S. Fire Administration, sprinkler systems can reduce the risk of fire death by as much as 80 percent and lower the amount of fire-related property damage by approximately 70 percent.

    Resistance to Home Sprinkler System Installation

    So, if it’s true that sprinkler systems save lives and minimize property damage, why isn’t every home required to have one? There isn’t a simple answer to this question. Although the International Residential Code mandates that all new single-family dwellings must have sprinkler systems on a national level, each state has the right to chose whether to enact the guidelines.

    There are currently more than 30 states that have not made sprinkler system installation a requirement.

    In Arizona, for example, there is no statewide law requiring sprinkler systems in one- and two-family homes. Some state laws also prohibit local jurisdictions from adopting ordinances that mandate sprinkler systems installation, although there are exceptions for certain cities. The Phoenix suburb of Scottsdale has had an ordinance that requires sprinklers in new homes in place for more than 30 years.

    Real estate developers and home builders pose the biggest obstacle to wide-scale sprinkler system installation, citing that sprinklers are not cost-effective and needlessly drive up the price of new homes. They also state that modern homes have sufficient safety features that make sprinklers unnecessary.

    Many homeowners are also reluctant to install sprinkler systems for various reasons. Cost is one major drawback —  on average you can expect to pay about $1.35 per square foot. Given that the typical size of new homes these days is approximately 2,400 square feet, the average sprinkler system price tag is around $3,240.

    Some residential property owners believe that a sprinkler system will detract from the appearance of their home as well. However, today’s systems enable an installation that hides the water pipes, meaning that the only the sprinkler heads are visible. There are also unfounded worries about accidental activation. It typically takes an actual fire to set off the sprinklers, which should minimize concerns over unnecessary water damage.

    Should I Install Fire Sprinklers in My Home?

    The decision whether to install a sprinkler system essentially boils down to weighing the cost vs. the potential lifesaving benefits. If you are looking to fire-proof your house, sprinklers deserve careful consideration. Even if you only need it once, your sprinkler system can pay for itself by preventing costly property damage and, more importantly, saving the lives of you and your family.

    Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. to learn more about the pros and cons of installing a sprinkler system in your Phoenix- or Tucson-area home.

    Learn More About Fire Sprinkler Systems

    What You to Need Know About Fire System Tests and Inspections

    Posted on by Taylor

    If you’re a commercial building owner or manager, then you’re probably familiar with the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, otherwise known as NFPA 72. This code lists the most current safety provisions regarding the installation, performance and testing of fire alarm and detection systems in a business establishment.

    Why Should You Have Your Fire Alarm Systems Inspected on a Regular Basis?

    Some business owners and business managers may wonder why they need to make the effort and bear the expense of having their alarm systems inspected. Why test fire alarms? Why inspect fire extinguishers? Here are just a few of the many important reasons:

    • It’s the law:

      Noncompliance with NFPA 72 can result in fines or imprisonment — or both.

    • Protecting lives:

      The failure to maintain an effective, properly operating fire alarm and detection system places the lives of your employees and customers at risk.

    • Complying with local fire codes:

      Regardless of where your establishment is located, NFPA 72 compliance is necessary to meet the requirements of fire and building inspectors.

    • Limiting liability exposure:

      If an injury or fatality occurs due to a fire at your property, you could be held legally liable if it is determined you did not take appropriate steps to maintain NFPA 72 compliance.

    • Rejection of insurance coverage:

      Per above, even if you have liability insurance coverage, your carrier is likely to reject your claim if you fail to provide adequate proof of an annual fire system inspection.

    Fire Systems

    Fire System Inspection Checklist

    To help building managers ensure compliance with fire system testing and inspection standards, the National Fire Prevention Association has developed an extensive checklist of items that require attention. Depending on the system component, it may require testing on a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual basis. A total of 23 components are included on the current fire alarm testing checklist:

    1. Control equipment for buildings connected to supervising station
    2. Control equipment for buildings not connected to supervising station
    3. Engine driven generator — central station facilities and fire alarm systems
    4. Engine-driven generator — public fire alarm reporting system
    5. Batteries — central station facilities
    6. Batteries — fire alarm systems
    7. Batteries — public fire alarm reporting systems
    8. Fiber-optic cable power
    9. Control unit trouble signals
    10. Conductors — metallic
    11. Conductors — nonmetallic
    12. Emergency voice/alarm communications equipment
    13. Retransmission equipment
    14. Remote annunciators
    15. Initiating devices
    16. Guard’s tour equipment
    17. Interface equipment
    18. Special hazard equipment
    19. Alarm notification appliances
    20. Off-premises transmission equipment
    21. Supervising station fire alarm systems — transmitters
    22. Special procedures
    23. Supervising station fire alarm systems — receivers

    Titan Alarm, Inc. Can Handle All Your Fire Alarm System Inspection and Testing Needs

    It is critical your fire alarm system inspection is conducted by a reputable, professional company. In addition to installing high-quality alarm systems, Titan Alarm, Inc. can provide reliable inspection and testing services for businesses throughout the Phoenix, AZ area. Contact us for more detailed information regarding the items on the NFPA 72 fire system inspection checklist and to schedule an inspection at your facility today.

    Learn More About Testing & Inspection

    Moving Checklist: Fire Safety & Home Security

    Posted on by Taylor

    There’s a lot to think about when moving into a new home, and one of the most important elements is your new home’s security. However, with all the attention on the details such as hiring a moving company and packing up your belongings, you might not have time to think about it.

    The following checklist provides tips for new homeowners that cover many of the home safety and security essentials:

    • Exterior Doors:

      All your exterior doors should have high-quality deadbolt locks. It’s also a good idea to have the locks changed — you never know if there are extra keys to the existing locks still floating around. If your new home has sliding glass doors, make sure they are equipped with at least one of the following: insertion pin lock, track lock, hinged door bar, wooden or metal dowel in the door track.

    • Garage Door:

      One of the most important tips for home security is to ensure your new home’s overhead garage door is equipped with an automatic opener, as this can prevent intruders from gaining access. Also be certain the main door as well as the door that leads from the garage into your home have top-quality deadbolt locks.

    Garage

    • Windows:

      Unlocked windows are a favorite entry point for burglars. Another essential security tip for new homebuyers is to make sure all windows are equipped with keyed locks. Also be certain the keys are easily accessible in case of an emergency.

    • Lighting:

      Your home’s front entrance should have sufficient lighting to allow you to easily identify nighttime visitors. Floodlights or motion sensor-controlled exterior lighting are an extremely effective intruder deterrent. Equipping the interior of your home with smart lighting technology that allows you to automatically turn the lights on and off at predetermined intervals is another reliable home security measure.

    • Fire Safety:

      Perhaps the most critical safety tip for home security is making sure your fire and smoke detection equipment is in good working order. You should have smoke detectors installed in the kitchen, hallways near bedrooms, at the top of all stairways and inside the garage. Additionally, place fire extinguishers in the kitchen, basement and garage. Another key safety feature is a monitored fire alarm system that will provide an immediate alert to first responders.

    • Home Security System:

      One last important tip for new homebuyers: If your new home has an outdated security system — or no security system at all — strongly consider having one installed before you move in. A state-of-the-art security system should include features such as strategically placed high-tech video surveillance cameras, motion sensors, access control devices and energy management solutions. Integrating these features with the implementation of smart technology allows you to control and monitor your security system on a 24/7 basis via smartphone app.

    We’re Here to Assist You With Your Home Security

    If you’re planning to move to the Phoenix, AZ area, Titan Alarm can handle all your home security needs. We offer a wide selection of security cameras, motion detectors, fire alarms and other security essentials. Contact us for more valuable moving tips for new house buyers and to schedule a no-obligation security consultation.

    Learn More About Home Security

    20 Ways to Fireproof a New Home

    Posted on by Taylor

    How to fireproof my house — that’s a common consideration for builders of new homes in the Phoenix area. The following tips can prove invaluable for learning how to fireproof your house and prevent a disaster from occurring:

    1. Instead of installing carpeting made of wool or synthetic materials, consider carpeting made from fire-resistant materials that can prevent a fire from spreading as quickly.
    1. When installing your appliances or other electronic devices, take care to avoid overloading the electrical wiring, as this can lead to short circuiting and subsequent fires.
    1. One of the best ways to fireproof a room used for storage such as a basement or attic is to avoid filling it with flammable “junk” such as newspapers, old clothes and boxes after you move in.
    1. Another question that homeowners sometime ask is “How do I fireproof my doors?” While many newer homes feature doors made from metal or other fire-resistant materials, you can also coat doors with fire-resistant paint.
    1. If you are buying brand-new furniture for your home, ask the store to coat it with fireproof chemicals. If you are bringing existing furniture, purchase and apply a fireproof spray.
    1. Don’t forget to fireproof your outdoor furniture as well, especially patio furniture in close proximity to barbecue grills or fire pits.
    1. Place fire extinguishers in as many rooms as possible, particularly “high-risk” rooms such as the kitchen, attic and basement.
    1. If you are installing a tile roof, choose interlocking materials free of cracks or openings that can allow burning embers to enter your home.
    1. Instead of building your home with wood, consider less combustible materials such as face brick, adobe, metal siding or concrete block.
    1. Avoid installing windows with single glazing. Double glazing with tempered glass offers a much more effective defense against fire.
    1. Ensure all bathroom, clothes dryer and kitchen vents include fire-rated assemblies and automatic backdraft dampers.
    1. Once you’ve moved into your new home, be sure to properly maintain your furnace. The simple act of replacing a clogged filter can significantly reduce your fire risk.
    1. A surprising number of fires are caused by accumulated lint in clothes dryers, so be sure to clean the lint trap after each load.
    1. Keep all indoor and outdoor candles within plain sight while burning. It is also a good idea to extinguish interior candles when leaving a room.
    1. Keep all recycling bins outside, especially during the hot summer months.
    1. Turn off any unused appliances prior to leaving your home, even for a short period of time.
    1. When setting up a barbecue grill, choose a flat spot located as far away as possible from trees and foliage.
    1. Never leave food cooking on the stove or in the oven unattended for any length of time.
    1. If you have children, be sure matches and cigarette lighters are kept out of reach.
    1. Last, but certainly not least, install an effective, reliable smoke detection and monitoring system.

    If your home is located in the Phoenix, AZ area, contact the experts at Titan Alarm to learn more about your fire system options.

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    5 Myths of Fire Sprinkler System Corrosion

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    Corrosion in fire sprinkler systems are always a property or business owner’s absolute worse night mare. As corrosion occurs in pipes, overtime leaks may pop up unexpectedly, this leaves property and business owners at a loss, looking for the right answers.

    As you search for answers, it’s imperative that you find the right high quality answers, that can scientifically educate you on what happens to your fire sprinkler systems, and educate you on choosing the right company for your fire sprinkler inspection and maintenance needs.

    There are so many myths out there all surrounding corrosion, which could incorrectly influence your decisions to act on responses to fixing the system.

    We’ve put together a few myths, and truths, for you to educate yourself and make the right decisions when it comes to your fire sprinkler systems.

    Myth #1

    Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) is the primary cause of pin-hole leaks in fire sprinkler systems. False.

    Oxygen is actually the main cause of corrosion. Oxygen will expel metals from the walls of the systems piping and will then produce solid waste. Bacteria has been regularly found inside fire sprinkler systems, but there is no correlation between bacterial contamination and leaks from corrosion.

    Bacteria makes up less than 10% of all pin-hole leaks.

    Bacteria

    Myth #2

    The entire system must be replaced once pin-hole leaks are found on a regular basis.

    Unfortunately, fire sprinkler systems are removed and replaced completely when most of the piping isn’t damaged by corrosion. Oxygen corrosion is always extremely localized. Corrosion happens in trapped air pockets in a wet fire sprinkler system, and it also occurs in pools of trapped water in dry and pre action fire sprinkler systems. Keep yourself and your wallet happy, by merely removing and replacing the piping that has been effected by corrosion.

    Corrosion

    Myth #3

    Bad water causes fire sprinkler system leaks. False. 

    Although water chemistry varies throughout the country, but most of the water that is supplied to fire systems is normally very fresh and clean. Fire System’s water source is normally from a municipal water supply.

    Dirty Water

    Myth #4

    Galvanized steel works better than black steel to slow corrosion. False.

    Galvanized steel for dry pipe fire sprinkler systems can start leaking 3x to 4x faster than black steel.

    Black steel pipe can disperse oxygen corrosion. Helping slow corrosion.

    Piping

    Myth #5

    The fire sprinkler piping and fittings quality has dropped. False.

    Defects from manufacturers are very rare. The quality of the fitting and piping being used today surpasses American Society for Testing and Materials standards. Corrosion is rarely the result of defective piping. It is the exposure to different temperatures and the exposure to oxygenated water that creates quickened attack at the weld seams.

    To Sum It Up

    Oxygen causes most of the major issues, when it comes to corrosion in the fire sprinkler systems. The amounts of oxygen that’s introduced to the fire sprinkler piping has a direct impact with the timing of corrosion.

    YOU CAN SLOW DOWN THE PROCESS!

    Contacting Titan Alarm today can help you in the long haul, let us assist you with the preparation and combat of stopping and slowing corrosion in your fire sprinkler systems. Give us a call today 602-680-4567.

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    Fire Sprinkler Corrosion

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    Corrosion is one of the most common causes of malfunctioning fire sprinklers and often causes a failing fire sprinkler inspection . When there is Oxygen present in the pipes running along the building for the fire sprinkler system, it can have chemical reactions with water and the metal that makes up the piping, and when it solidifies it can corrode.

    Corrosion in Fire Sprinkler Systems

    Oxygen can dissolve naturally into water. In a normal 1000 gallon fire sprinkler system, any and all oxygen that’s confined inside the pipes of the system will be absorbed. Shockingly it only takes up to 30 days for the dissolved oxygen to produce 34 pounds of solid materials. In any wet fire sprinkler system, the solids can sink down into low spots and begin to cause corrosion. If there is ever fresh oxygen that is then introduced into the system, the corrosion process can begin again, adding more and more solids into the fire sprinkler system. Dry fire sprinkler systems and pre-action systems are not immune to the problems caused by corrosion as well. Corrosion is actually more common in dry sprinkler systems due to the oxygen rates being substantially higher. Moisture gets into the dry systems from testing and or condensation and then interacts with the iron inside the piping causing corrosion.

    Fire Sprinkler System

    Agents that Catalyst Corrosion

    These are the five primary causes that can speed up the corrosion process:

    • When there oxygen is introduced into the sprinkler piping, the oxygen dissolves into the water, and it causes instant metal loss.

    • Solids that are created from reactions that have been listed above, cause corrosion to become more aggressive.

    • When piping is removed, it allows a new location for oxygen to attack.

    • When a wet systems are drained and then refilled with water, inevitably a fresh source of oxygen is then introduced in the system.

    • When temperatures change and air falls below the dew point, water condenses into small drops, speeding up corrosion.

    Solids and Bacteria

    Bacteria exists in water naturally, which is something that can’t be changed. This leads many people to believe that bacteria is the responsible party for corrosion. While it does happen the bacteria is almost always the secondary cause for corrosion.

    Oxygen is almost always the primary cause of corrosion in a fire sprinkler system.

    Want to learn more about corrosion in fire sprinkler systems in Phoenix? You can learn more and find proactive ways to handle corrosion by contacting Titan Alarm today.

    Give us a call at 602-680-4567.

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    Sprinkler System Maintenance

    Posted on by Mike Proudfit

    After you finish your routine maintenance and inspections with Titan Alarm, you may believe that you are completely set and compliant with fire codes. Unfortunately this is not always the case. Fire sprinkler system testing needs to occur outside of the normal annual, and quarterly, testing and inspections.

    Building owners and facilities managers need to be alert and aware as to the age of the buildings they own and manage, and the age of the sprinklers and sprinkler systems that are all installed.

    A lot of the time, there aren’t going to be any visual signs that the sprinkler system are not working properly or need to be tested. This makes it necessary for the building owners to know their sprinkler systems and know all of the codes set in place.

    As a building owner, something you need to look for on sprinkler systems and the sprinkler heads is corrosion, damage or large amounts of dust on the sprinkler systems. All of the above can really impact the way that the sprinklers function. Outside of the regular annual and monthly sprinkler inspections, all of the sprinkler heads have different code requirements for testing.

    Fire Sprinkler System

    All of the standards that have been set by the NFPA vary depending all on the type and ages of the sprinklers and heads.

    Different types of sprinkler heads:

    • Extra high – These sprinkler heads need to be tested every five years. This is not a common sprinkler head and is often used in ovens or heat treating areas.

    • Quick response – This is the most common type of sprinkler head. Following installation, fast-response sprinkler heads do not need to be tested for 20 years. After the initial test, these heads are required to be tested every 10 years.

    • Standard – This type of sprinkler head needs to be tested 50 years after installation and then every 10 years following the first test.

    • Dry pendent – These sprinkler heads need to be tested every 10 years.

    According to NFPA 25 standards, a minimum of four sprinklers or at least one percent of all sprinklers in the building, must be tested. If the building uses multiple types of sprinklers, such as dry, wet or pre-action, then at least one percent of each type of sprinkler must be tested.

    For testing and inspection of sprinkler heads and sprinkler systems in the Phoenix, AZ area, call Titan Alarm today, 602-680-4567 or fill out an online form on the website and a customer service representative will be in contact.

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