Why is a fire alarm system's voltage relevant?

The voltage of a fire alarm system is crucial because it directly impacts the operation and compliance of the devices within the system. Fire alarm systems are designed to function optimally at specific voltage levels. The various components, such as detectors, notification appliances, and control panels, are engineered to operate within a certain voltage range to ensure reliable performance.

If the voltage is too low, devices may not operate correctly or might fail to activate during an emergency. Conversely, if the voltage is too high, it could damage the devices and impair their functionality, leading to system failure when it is needed most. Compliance with industry standards and codes also often includes adherence to specified voltage levels to ensure safety, reliability, and performance of the fire alarm system.

While the color of the alarm indicators, the audio level of alarm sounds, and the heating of the alarm devices are relevant aspects of a fire alarm system, they are not fundamentally influenced by the system's voltage in the same way that compliance and operational integrity are. Thus, understanding and maintaining the correct voltage is vital for the effective performance of the fire alarm system.