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What's the difference between traditional smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Fayetteville?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Fayetteville smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, there’s really only one champion. Smoke detectors are an important first step in shielding your place from fire, but they have several shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms offer more means to identify a fire and may notify help when the unthinkable happens. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also brings out extra perks that your ordinary smoke detectors can only dream about.

Your regular smoke alarms in Fayetteville may be falling short

Defending against fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors perform a vital role in shielding your family. However, smoke detectors have various limitations. For example, they will only detect smoke, not extreme temperatures. If there is a fire in your home, you may not be cautioned unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Although there are additional telltale signals of fire -- including a sharp heat increase -- if there's no smoke, there is no sounding of your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only activate when they detect enough smoke. In the event a fire creeps along slowly at first, you may not be alerted until the flames are out of control. Various smoke detectors utilize more than one sensor, meaning they will detect smoke from both a raging fire and smoldering remnants. If they do go off, it falls to the resident to contact emergency services after safely leaving the premises.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than standard smoke detectors

Even though they look about the same as traditional smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. When integrated to a comprehensive home security installation, they are able to:

  • Discern fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Similar to an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored device will trigger from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will resonate a high-volume warning whenever it senses a hazardous situation.
  • Identify fire with a abrupt temperature increase: A monitored fire alarm can also trigger if it notices an uncommon fluctuation in temperature. Frequently, heat comes in advance of smoke. More methods to identify a fire means additional methods to keep your family safe.
  • Notifies trained monitoring agents: Fires can take place when you are home or away. No matter of the situation, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring agents, who will rapidly place a call to the fire department. When every moment matters, it's nice to know that somebody is consistently keeping a watch of your home.
  • Connects to home automation: Although the chief purpose of a fire alarm is to recognize fire and request monitoring agents, it may also integrate with other automated equipment. For instance, a triggered alarm could make your system turn on the exhaust fan to hinder the fire or turn on lighting so you may see the quickest way out of the house.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a complete smart home

The best approach to get the most from your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint expert today and find the most suitable smart home for your family. Diall (910) 718-9601 or send in the form on this page to take the first step toward a safer property.