r/firealarms

I have a site with quite a few system sensor sounder bases and when we hook up slc the panel says there is a short.

When metering the circuit we found a read of 310k.

We chased that down to an area of 10 sounder bases.

We pulled new wire in this area and started slowly re wiring the sounder bases back up, we get about 5 bases in and we get a reading of 300k and it climbs up to about 650k and then it seems to discharge and go down to 1.2m

If we re do this "experiment " and remove the last device when the meter shows 300k. The meter still shows 300k and keeps climbing then drops to 1.2m

I have 0 clue what is going on any input would be appreciated.

Hey All, I have all my RTS's (RTS151KEY) LED's not lighting up. Saw a post from a few years ago saying, to program it as a relay but it didn't work, we programmed it from the panel since our programmer is not currently with us (mabye it needs to be done from the computer?), duct detector model is a DNRW.

I am a technician myself who primarily works on simplex systems, their stuff can be buggy or low quality but my personal preference is I like their style, Their customer service and other stuff in their company I wont lie is not all that great but I really like their products. What's all of your experiences with simplex, why do you guys like or dislike simplex?

I’ve been working in the general industry (alarms, cctv, access, fire) for about 10 years through a few different companies. I got an email from Pye-Barker for a Fire Service and Inspector job opening in Tennessee. It’s not a job offer, more of a “we noticed you want want to talk” kinda email. And I know the simplest way to get most of my questions answered would be to reachout and talk to them. But we all know employers/recruiters are always as transparent about jobs.

I’ve got multiple mixed “reviews” from different coworkers about the company. But I wanted to see if anyone who actually works for them had input on them as a company? I know it will be different based on locations and offices, but I would appreciate any good or bad feedback you have.

Thanks in advance!

Hallo! Me, my brother, father and mother are currently dealing a situation with our fire alarms. The issue started at either 5 or 6 AM and it is currently 10 PM. The fire alarm keeps beeping even after it has gone through several battery changes. The worse part is that it’s outside my door and is so loud to where I’ve heard it in my sleep. We’ve used 3 different brands, have made sure to close it tightly and have tried taking out the battery but it continues to beep. Is there anyone who might know why this keeps happening???

Just a heads up to all CFAA registered techs. Got an email from the CFAA this morning warning that Jackie Jones, the lady who handles all things technician related at the head office had her email hacked.

"Hello All,

Please note that Jacqueline Jones' techadmin@cfaa.ca email address has been compromised. Please do not to open or click on any Links in emails received from techadmin@cfaa.ca address with the subject line - Canadian Fire Alarm Association– #CFAA-AUG-2026 or any other email you may have received from this email address within the last 24 hours. 

Please rest assured that we are fully committed to resolving this situation as quickly as possible. We will send an updated email from info@cfaa.ca once this is resolved.

In the meantime, we recommend that you remain vigilant and ignore any suspicious or unexpected emails you may receive from our domain.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding.

Best regards,

Jacqueline Jones and the CFAA Team"

Hi I’m a 32(m) and I’m interested in field
Of fire alarm technician I’ve been reading about it and the process to become doesn’t sound to lengthy like other trade profession ( could be wrong, correct me if I am). I’m trying to break out of my line of work and make more earn a better salary, My question is what is the best route to become one. I live in Ontario and there are two college that offer the cfaa program but I’ve also read that lotta people also go through the cfaa website it self through order line. Im just looking for some advice from some career veterans, who can push me in the right direction.

Ps I don’t have a by experience with electrical work but I’m willing to learn.

Quick question. I have became NICET 2 in FAS this past month, but I am still learning. I overheard the bossman talking to a tech but didnt catch the whole thing. I didnt want to ask to look like an idiot. During a test and inspection of a fire alarm system, you notice the FACP is on the same AC circuit as the buildings access control system and the main server for the building. What do you do if you cannot perform current draw tests on the FACP due to not wanting to cause any un-forseen issues with powering off their equipment?

Hello,

I am moving with family to Powhatan, VA from NY. I have 5 years experience in plumbing / hvac. I have about 1 year of experience working with hvac controls and communication. I’m looking to pivot into low voltage work, specifically fire alarms. If there is anyone in the Richmond area who knows of companies hiring I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks!