Reliability is everything in the fire alarm industry. These systems are essential for safety in all types of buildings, which is why the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) mandates listed surge-protective devices (SPDs) for fire alarm systems. These guidelines ensure such critical systems remain operational when it matters most. It’s not a matter of “if” you need surge protection–you do. The real question is, “what type of surge protector is best for my fire alarm system?”
Location is key
It’s not at all uncommon for fire alarm panels and surge protectors to be tucked away in mechanical rooms or behind locked doors. But, you know what they say–out of sight, out of mind.
When that’s the case, it’s easy to miss when a surge protector has reached its end-of-life. It’s time to take a quick minute to consider how you know when surge protection is compromised and how often your customers are actually checking their surge protectors, because chances are–they’re not.
DITEK’s HW Series: compact surge protection
The HW Series offers dependable, compact surge protection and is a popular choice amongst fire alarm installers and integrators. With a diagnostic LED indicator, it’s a great solution for panels location in a common area that is regularly checked. But that’s what you need to remember or need to remind customers; LEDs have to be checked.
Included in this series is the DTK-120HWLOK, a 120VAC parallel-wired SPD with a NFPA 72 breaker lockout to prevent an accidental disconnect.
The Deflector: modular surge protection and alerts
Rather than having to check an LED, DITEK’s Deflector Series provides the surge protection needed and alerts you the moment protection is compromised. Through visual indicators, audible alarms, and Form C dry contacts, on-site staff and/or remote personnel are immediately aware of the surge protection status. (Note – the audible alarm can be silenced via the included time delay switch.)
As a modular series, reinstating surge protection is as easy as it gets with any Deflector SPD. As soon as an alert is heard, seen, or received, a new module can replace the old one(s) in a matter of seconds. When every second matters, like they do with fire alarm systems, the fast and tool-free replacements allow for surge protection to quickly be provided again and without disrupting the system.
This series includes the DTK-DF120S1, a 120VAC/20A series-wired Type 2 SPD, as well as the DTK-120X12 for 120VAC power protection and up to 12 low voltage circuits. (Modules for these devices are ordered separately.)
Raise the bar on protection for critical systems
It’s one thing–a good thing–to be compliant with code, and choosing the best surge protector for your fire alarm system and its location is almost as important. Ensure your team or customers can quickly respond when a surge protector needs to be replaced, even if a panel is out of sight or not located along a common path. In doing so, you’re prioritizing reliable life-safety systems and peace of mind.
