Fire detection systems need routine testing to ensure they’re functioning correctly. While home or business owners can turn the system on and check the batteries once a week or month, a professional alarm service should visit periodically for an in-depth inspection. To determine how often you should schedule testing, Alert Alarm in Merrillville, IN, has created a brief guide.

How to Determine Fire Detection System Testing Frequency

Age

Systems less than five years old should experience few problems and, therefore, require less frequent testing. When a system is more than five years old, it is more likely for a specific component to break, thus requiring repairs. It’s crucial to catch these issues early on through professional testing and inspections once per year. This will extend the life of the system and guarantee effectiveness in the event of a fire. More frequent testing may be necessary for alarms installed 10 or more years ago.

Maintenance History

When properly maintained, a fire detection system should last at least 15 years without experiencing any problems. However, allowing years to go by in between inspections will increase safety risks. Thus, it’s crucial to develop a testing schedule and log every visit from your alarm service. Keeping these documents on hand will allow you to maintain the routine and schedule emergency inspections if you notice a component isn’t functioning properly.

Since you depend on your fire detection system to protect your property and anyone inside from danger, don’t let a year pass without scheduling official testing from your local alarm service. To make an appointment with Alert Alarm and discover why they’ve been the preferred alarm company throughout Lake and Porter County for two decades, call (219) 738-2201 or visit them online.