Replace copper phone lines for fire alarm control system - brittag/maintenance GitHub Wiki
| Aspect | Info |
|---|---|
| Context | Small multi-family residential |
| Date started | 2024-04 |
| Date finished | 2024-10 |
| Status | Complete |
| Summary of outcome | Success |
Background
Building has an analog fire alarm control panel (AFP-200), likely installed around 2000, that was connected to two AT&T copper phone lines. The panel has a UDACT (Universal Digital Alarm Communicator Transmitter) module that automatically transmits the fire system status to the local fire department over telephone lines. It requires two telephone lines: a primary line and a backup.
Problem
AT&T increased the monthly cost of the two copper telephone lines to $400/month in 2023 and then $1000/month in 2024, because they no longer want to be in the business of providing copper telephone lines. This was an unsustainable cost.
Approach
The contracted fire alarm system company said they could install a cell phone dialer unit to replace the copper phone lines, but they recommended replacing the entire fire alarm panel at the same time, because it is old. To do this, the company said they would need the plans that outline the fire alarm system throughout the facility, otherwise the cost would include diagramming of the alarm system. Nobody still has the original plans.
Even though the panel is old, the company tests the panel quarterly and says it continues to work correctly, so it didn't seem necessary to replace the panel yet.
The solution was to work with an AT&T account representative to replace the copper lines with VOIP lines that run on the building's existing internet service. The VOIP lines come with built-in cell service backup (in case of internet outage) and a battery (in case of power outage). This VOIP product is called AT&T Phone for Business Advanced. Paid $350 for AT&T technicians to do a site survey to confirm feasibility of installation.
No changes needed to the panel. Did not need to port the old phone numbers. Just needed the fire alarm system company to send out a technician during AT&T's installation to test the panel and make sure the new lines worked as expected (about $650). After that, needed AT&T to cancel service on the old copper lines.
Outcome
This worked. The VOIP service is about $200/month for the two lines, which is fine.
Next steps
The VOIP service is on a three-year contract. When the contract is close to expiring, request quote for renewal costs and investigate alternative options that may be cheaper.