Wireless installation advantage: Ajax Systems highlights new business models for fire installers
Iain Hoey
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Wireless fire detection is reshaping installation strategies and opening new service models, writes Paul Pope, Global Head of Fire & Life Safety Business at Ajax Systems
Technology within the fire safety sector is evolving rapidly and entering a decisive decade.
Once considered a niche technology, the wireless fire detection and alarm market reached $688 million in 2024 and is predicted to exceed $844 million by 2033.
The real turning point is that certified EN54-25 wireless systems can now deliver system integrity and reliability comparable to wired installations, removing the last barrier to adoption.
For installers, it’s a chance to redefine their business model and evaluate the suitability of projects between the different technologies now available.
Professionally installed wireless systems can lead to faster project delivery, less disruption, and, with the latest technologies, access to new revenue streams like real-time remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and instant alerts.
In a world where efficiency and compliance rule, wireless systems can provide the installers with the tools and options to grow their business.
The challenge for fire installers today
For decades, wired fire detection and alarm systems have been the gold standard, and they still secure their place in the overall solution to the design and fire strategy for many buildings.
However, due to the complexity and disruption associated with cable installation, it can be time-consuming and invasive to building operations.
In many cases, a long installation schedule due to unforeseen circumstances can increase the final project cost.
That’s why there is an increase in fire safety specialists reassessing the fire strategy and opting for wireless systems.
The industry is also facing a shortage of skilled engineers, which is a major workforce concern.
The NFPA research revealed that 50% of the skilled workforce shortages will be the main concern for 2025, and this shortfall is expected to continue growing.
This challenge highlights the need to increase the future workforce by attracting the next generation of fire professionals who may be less interested in labour-intensive work.
Advanced wireless technology can help to reduce this barrier, making the noble profession of the fire industry more attractive to technology-oriented professionals.
Additionally, the market is struggling with competitive pressure.
Clients want faster, flexible, and less intrusive installation, and wired solutions make it difficult to meet those expectations.
Not upgrading with wireless means turning away almost half of potential clients, especially in commercial projects where wireless is becoming a viable alternative choice.
What’s at stake if installers do not adapt
Considering the challenges above, adapting to new market demands is an ongoing process, for all businesses.
The wireless fire detection and alarm market is growing at nearly 8% annually, and installers who do not adapt risk losing access to this growth and missing out on business opportunities.
Around 46% of facility managers already choose wireless systems as their first option for upgrades or retrofits.
There is a risk of losing a competitive advantage.
More than 64% of fire installers now prefer wireless systems over wired ones for their flexibility and scalability.
Falling behind means watching the revenue flow to better-prepared companies.
The numbers speak for themselves — due to enhancements in technology, the EN54-25 wireless sector is getting stronger.
The holistic approach in maintaining fire safety has always been the main driver for fire professionals, and the choice available in both wired and wireless systems today is impressive.
The decision is with the professionals to evaluate which technology is suitable for each project and, where appropriate, seize the growth and benefits that wireless unlocks.
Turning wireless into a competitive advantage
Demand for wireless fire detection and alarm systems is rising in the commercial sector, where the stakeholders’ value is reduced by 35% compared with wired systems.
At the same time, installation companies benefit from faster installations, more capacity, and time for new revenue streams, including services like integrated smart systems, proactive maintenance contracts, or managing larger projects.
The question most frequently asked is related to the performance of the batteries.
The latest technologies can deliver battery capacities between 5 and 7 years, supported by continuous condition monitoring and low-battery alerts, sent to the fire control panel and/or remote management systems.
Providing real-time monitoring notifications and secure on-site and remote on-demand system health checks provides the responsible person(s) and service organisations with the information to know exactly when replacements are needed.
In commercial settings, planned maintenance visits make replacements easy.
This shifts battery management from a problem to a predictable, manageable task.
Wireless fire detection and alarm systems can open up new opportunities in healthcare, logistics, education, museums, heritage sites, construction sites, vacant properties, energy infrastructure, and retail and many more.
Wireless EN54 fire detection for commercial and municipal sites
Some facilities are unsuitable for wired systems , either because wiring them to the local or national codes of practice is complicated or impossible to do so.
For example, where there is a risk of asbestos or architecturally sensitive building fabric disturbance, or where the operation of the facility would be seriously disrupted.
In some cases, hybrid systems are used, where some of the fire alarm system is connected wirelessly, while other devices are wired.
EN54-25 certified wireless systems with the additional EN54-13 compatibility certification, precisely match the operating realities of commercial and municipal estates, offering continuous supervision and strict compliance.