Choosing the right fire alarm system is one of the most important decisions a business can make to protect people, assets, and operations. With strict fire safety regulations in place across the UK, your system needs to be reliable, compliant, and appropriate for the layout and function of your premises.
Two main options dominate the commercial market: wired and wireless fire alarm systems. Each has its advantages and drawbacks, and the right solution depends on the specifics of your building, budget, and future plans. In this guide, we’ll compare both types in depth, so you can make an informed decision.
Wired fire alarm systems are traditional setups where all components, detectors, call points, sounders, and control panels, are connected by electrical cables. These systems are powered by the mains with a battery backup and are commonly used in larger buildings, new builds, or environments where cabling can be installed without disruption.
They’re known for their long-term reliability, low interference risk, and are often favoured where the fire risk or building occupancy is high.
Wireless fire alarm systems, on the other hand, use radio signals to connect the components of the system to the central control panel. Instead of hardwired connections, each device is powered by long-life batteries and communicates wirelessly.
Wireless systems have grown in popularity thanks to their flexibility and ease of installation. They’re especially suitable for heritage buildings, occupied spaces, or where minimal disruption is required.
One of the biggest differences between wired and wireless systems lies in the installation process. Wired systems require the routing of cables throughout the building, which may involve lifting floors, drilling walls, or redecorating afterwards. This makes them more suited to new builds or major renovations where cabling can be integrated from the start.
Wireless systems, in contrast, can be installed with minimal intrusion. There’s no need for cables between devices, which speeds up the fire alarm installation and reduces disruption to business operations. For retrofits, temporary premises, or buildings with architectural restrictions, wireless systems offer a major advantage.
Wired fire alarms benefit from a constant power supply from the mains, along with battery backup to ensure compliance and continuity during outages. Because of this setup, power delivery is consistent and centralised, making ongoing maintenance simpler.
Wireless systems rely on individual batteries within each device. These typically last between five and ten years, but they do need to be checked and replaced as part of a regular maintenance schedule. Modern wireless systems are highly reliable and use secure radio frequencies that minimise the risk of interference, but physical barriers like thick walls or metal structures can affect signal strength – something that should be considered during system design.
Both systems require routine maintenance to comply with BS 5839-1:2025 fire safety standards.
Wired systems are generally easier to monitor centrally, as issues such as faults or power failures are reported directly to the panel. If there’s a cable fault, however, identifying and repairing it can take time and specialist expertise.
Wireless systems make fault detection easier in some respects, as each device communicates its status. But because power is decentralised, battery replacement becomes a key part of ongoing maintenance. That said, many businesses find this trade-off acceptable due to the time and cost saved during installation.
Wired systems tend to be more rigid. Once installed, any changes to your building layout or expansion of the fire alarm coverage usually requires additional wiring, which can be a disruptive and expensive process.
Wireless systems are far more flexible. Adding new devices or moving existing ones is quick and simple, making them ideal for businesses that expect to grow, change, or reconfigure their space over time. This adaptability is a major advantage in fast-moving commercial environments.
At first glance, wireless systems often appear more expensive in terms of equipment costs. Each device needs a radio transmitter and battery, which increases the unit cost. However, when you factor in installation, labour, and the cost of downtime or disruption to the business, the total cost of a wireless system is often comparable, or even lower, than a wired one in retrofit scenarios.
Wired systems tend to be cheaper in terms of component costs but can be significantly more expensive to install, especially in occupied buildings or where construction work is needed. Maintenance costs are also something to factor in. Wireless systems may require more regular battery replacements, but the ease of relocating and scaling the system can offset this in the long run.
Both types of fire alarm systems can fully comply with UK fire safety regulations, as long as they are properly designed, installed, and maintained in accordance with BS 5839 standards.
Wired systems offer a stable connection that isn’t vulnerable to radio interference, which may be a consideration in high-security or high-risk environments.
Wireless systems, however, are no longer seen as the ‘weaker’ option. Today’s wireless fire alarms use encrypted signals, frequency hopping, and intelligent diagnostics to ensure safe and secure performance. For most commercial premises, a wireless solution is more than sufficient.
For some businesses, a hybrid fire alarm system offers the best of both worlds. These systems combine wired and wireless technology, allowing for a robust core network of hardwired devices in key locations, with wireless units used in areas where cabling would be difficult or disruptive.
Hybrid systems are ideal for growing businesses, multi-building campuses, or phased refurbishment projects where part of the premises needs to stay operational during upgrades.
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right fire alarm system depends on your building type, layout, occupancy, fire risk level, and operational needs.
Choose a wired system if:
Choose a wireless system if:
At BusinessWatch, we understand that every commercial building is different. That’s why our fire safety experts carry out full site assessments before recommending a tailored solution, whether wired, wireless, or hybrid.
We handle design, installation, commissioning, and long-term maintenance in line with BS 5839 standards. As an NSI Gold-accredited and BAFE-certified provider, we deliver systems that protect people, meet legal requirements, and minimise risk to your business.
Need help deciding which fire alarm system is best for your premises?
Contact us today to arrange a free consultation and site survey. Our team is here to help you navigate your options, stay compliant, and ensure your fire protection is built to last.
Fill out our online form or call us on 0330 094 7404.
