Routine Service Visit • Fault Diagnosis • Battery Replacement • Outstanding Faults Logged
We were called to 47 Avon Castle to carry out a routine fire alarm service on the existing system installed within the property.
What We Found on Arrival
Upon our initial inspection and panel interrogation:
- The fire alarm panel was showing multiple fault conditions, primarily relating to low or failing power supplies on several devices.
- The system comprised predominantly wireless detectors, which rely on internal batteries for both device operation and signalling.
- Some devices had not been accessed in some time, meaning the faults could not be cleared until proven healthy.
Works Completed
Our service visit included:
Panel Inspection & Status Check
We reviewed the control panel messages and logged each fault with the client for clarity.
Wireless Device Battery Replacement
Where access was available, we replaced all ageing device batteries to restore normal communication and clear the majority of panel faults. This brought the system back into a healthy state for those devices serviced.
Fire Alarm Panel Battery Replacement
The panel’s internal standby batteries were replaced. The existing batteries were fitted in 2018, and current manufacturer guidance recommends replacement every 4 years to ensure reliable operation in the event of mains failure — preventing future “low battery” or “battery fault” conditions.
Outstanding Faults
After servicing, two faults remained on the panel:
Low battery fault on a device not accessible during this visit
The location of this detector could not be accessed at the time (due to occupant access restrictions). The customer has been informed, and access will need to be arranged for full resolution.
Missing device to a refurbished area
One wireless detector listed on the panel no longer appears on site. This area has been refurbished since the system was originally installed and the detector has subsequently gone missing. The customer has been advised that a replacement detector (or update to the panel zone configuration) will be required to fully clear this fault.
Both outstanding issues have been communicated to the client, with recommended next steps (access arrangements and replacement device supply) confirmed.
Service Summary
✔ Full visual inspection of panel and devices
✔ Batteries replaced in all accessible wireless detectors
✔ Fire alarm panel standby batteries replaced
✔ Panel faults cleared where devices were healthy
✔ Remaining faults logged and reported with recommended actions
✔ System left in a serviceable and test-ready condition
Notes & Recommendations
- Wireless detector batteries should typically be replaced every 2–4 years depending on device type and RF conditions.
- Panel standby batteries should be replaced every 3–5 years in accordance with manufacturer guidance to ensure reliable emergency backup.
- Where devices remain inaccessible (occupied or locked areas), access should be arranged as soon as practicable — otherwise fault conditions will persist.
- A missing detector should be replaced and the system re-commissioned to ensure full detection coverage and BS compliance.
