What wire do you use for fire alarms?
Either a 15-amp circuit (wired with 14-gauge wire) or a 20-amp circuit (wired with 12-gauge cable) is acceptable for powering hardwired smoke detectors. Wiring the smoke detectors is fairly straightforward for an experienced DIYer or a professional electrician.
How do you wire a fire alarm circuit?
Electric install hardwired smoke detectors.
- Step 1: Turn Off the Power.
- Step 2: Cut the Holes.
- Step 3: Run the Wire.
- Step 4: Attach the Wires to the Electrical Boxes.
- Step 5: Secure the Electrical Boxes.
- Step 6: Wire the Smoke Detector.
- Step 7: Put It All Together.
- Step 8: Connect to the Circuit.
What is the most suitable cable for a fire alarm?
1) FPL which is a power-limited fire alarm riser cable is usually the least expensive because it is the most basic type of fire alarm cable and is also recognized by the NEC (National Electric Code). FPLR cables are suitable for use in a vertical run through a shaft or from floor to floor within a building.
What circuit are smoke alarms wired to?
AC electrical circuit
Hardwired smoke detectors are powered directly to an AC electrical circuit, which is standard in new construction. Many also include a battery backup system to keep it functioning during power outages.
What are the three wires on a smoke detector?
If you buy an AC-powered smoke detector today, it will have three wires — black, white and red. Black accepts 120 volts AC, white is neutral, and red is the intercommunication wire.
How many types of fire alarm wires are there?
There are five basic types of Fire Alarm Cable that are identifiable by the areas where they are approved for use by the National Electric Code.
What voltage is fire alarm cable?
24 volts
Although the cable is rated at 500 volts, fire alarm systems use extra low voltage (24 volts). Care must be taken to ensure the maximum distance between the alarm and mains cables.
What is FPL wire?
FPL (Fire Power Limited) Fire Alarm Cable is non-plenum rated for use in general purpose fire alarm installation. FPLP (Fire Power Limited Plenum) Plenum Fire Alarm Cable is used in horizontal overhead installations such as, duct work or other space that is used for the flow of environmental air.