What often causes nuisance alarms?

Nuisance alarms are often triggered by the improper functioning of alarm systems, which can include a variety of issues such as malfunctioning sensors, faulty wiring, or inadequate installation practices. When alarm systems are not calibrated correctly or are outdated, they may fail to accurately detect smoke, heat, or other indicators of a fire, leading to false alarms that can frustrate building occupants and emergency responders.

While fire drills can lead to temporary activations of alarms, they are planned and controlled activities not typically viewed as nuisances. System upgrades are intended to improve functionality and reduce false alarms, making them a less likely source of nuisance alarms. Excessive humidity levels may impact some systems, but they usually do not account for the majority of nuisance alarms when compared to the broader category of system malfunctions. Therefore, the most common cause of nuisance alarms is linked directly to improper functioning of alarm systems.