Cleaning & Recalibration
In order to ensure that a fire detection system functions
correctly, it is important that detectors are regularly inspected
visually in addition to functional testing.
Detectors which appear dirty on the outside are likely to be dirty
on the inside. These can be cleaned without dismantling by using a
vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, which will remove light
dust deposites. The detector case can be cleaned with a cloth
dampened with a solution of washing up liquid. Cleaning should be
followed by functional testing.
Apollo also recommends that detectors are returned for cleaning and
recalibration:
- if the current consumption of a conventional detector, in
either quiescent or alarm state, is outside that published by
Apollo, when tested on a test set.
- if the 'clean air' analogue value of an analogue addressable
smoke monitor reaches the limit published by Apollo
- if functional testing with a smoke or heat test pole does not
result in the correct operation of a detector, for example if a
detector takes a long time to go into alarm or if it fails to go
into alarm
- when local regulations demand it
- for cosmetic reasons - if the detector casing has become
stained and unsightly
To ascertain the correct values referred to above, please
consult the relevant Engineering Product Guide.