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Is there a difference between standard smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Florence?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Florence smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, one alarm rises over the other. Smoke detectors are an essential first step in guarding your place from emergency situations, but they have several drawbacks. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms have more ways to detect an emergency and may notify help in the event of a disaster. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also brings out extra advantages that your regular smoke detectors can only dream about.

Regular smoke alarms will only do one thing

Protecting your home from fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors play a critical role in safeguarding your family. Even so, smoke detectors have their drawbacks. For instance, they will only detect smoke, not high temps. If there is a fire in your home, you would not be alerted before the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Even though there are further significant signals of fire -- such as a sharp rise in heat -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you won’t have a sounding of your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only activate if they find enough smoke. In the event a fire starts small, you might not be alerted until it's too late. Various smoke detectors utilize dual sensors, which means they will be able to perceive smoke from both a blazing inferno and smoldering remnants. If they do go off, it's up to the homeowner to call the fire department after safely leaving the premises.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than regular smoke detectors

Even though they look like traditional smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. When integrated to a total home security installation, they are able to:

  • Detect fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Like an ordinary smoke detector, this monitored alarm can trigger from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will sound an easily audible beeping whenever it recognizes danger.
  • Identify fire due to a sudden heat surge: A monitored fire alarm can also go off if it notices an uncommon heat surge. Frequently, heat comes before smoke. Added means to uncover a fire means more means to safeguard your family.
  • Alerts trained monitoring representatives: Fires will happen whether you are home or away. No matter of the situation, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring agents, who are able to quickly contact first responders. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's nice to realize that somebody is always watching over your home.
  • Pairs with home automation: While the chief task of a fire alarm is to detect an emergency and call for monitoring agents, it can also connect to other automated devices. For instance, a tripped alarm can induce your system to turn on the exhaust fan to impede the flames or initiate the lights so you can find the safest path out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are an important aspect of a fully equipped smart home

The easiest approach to get the most from your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint security agent today and discover the most suitable smart home for your requirements. Call (843) 438-7320 or send in the following form to take the first step toward a safer property.