What can lead to the failure of a fire detection system?

Obstructed sensors can indeed lead to the failure of a fire detection system because these sensors are designed to detect the presence of heat, smoke, or flames. If a sensor is blocked by debris, soot, or any other material, its ability to accurately sense a fire is compromised. As a result, the system may not trigger an alarm when it should, potentially leading to dangerous situations where a fire goes undetected. Sensors require clear pathways and an unobstructed environment to function correctly, which highlights the importance of ensuring that they are visible and free from obstruction at all times.

The other options, while essential aspects of maintaining a fire detection system, do not directly contribute to failure. Regular maintenance ensures that the system operates efficiently, proper calibration guarantees that the sensors respond accurately to fire conditions, and correct installation ensures that the system is set up to operate as intended. These practices enhance the reliability of the system but do not explain causes of failure when compared to sensor obstruction.