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Are there differences between standard smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Charlotte?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Charlotte smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, it's clear that a monitored fire alarm is the better alternative"> for your home. Smoke detectors are an important consideration in guarding your place from emergency situations, but they have several shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms have more ways to identify a potentially dangerous situation and can notify your support team in the event of a disaster. Linking your fire alarms to a home security system also delivers additional advantages that your ordinary smoke detectors would only hope for.

Regular smoke alarms will only do one thing

Protecting your home from fire is important, and smoke detectors play an essential role in shielding your family. However, smoke detectors have some limitations. For instance, they can only react to smoke, not extreme temperatures. If there is an emergency in your residence, you might not be cautioned until the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Even though there are some other significant indications of fire -- such as a sudden heat increase -- if you don’t have smoke, there is no triggered smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only sound the alarm if they detect enough smoke. In the event a fire creeps along slowly at first, you might not be cautioned until the situation is out of hand. Various smoke detectors employ dual sensors, meaning they will be able to perceive smoke from both roaring flames and a more gradual burn. If they start beeping, it's up to the homeowner to notify emergency services after safely leaving the property.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than standard smoke detectors

Although they look like standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. When connected to a total home security installation, they will:

  • Discern fire with different sensor types: Like an ordinary smoke detector, this monitored component will engage from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will sound an easily audible beeping when it senses a hazardous situation.
  • Identify fire from a abrupt rise in heat: Your monitored fire alarm can even go off if it senses an unusual heat surge. Typically, heat is noticed prior to smoke. More methods to detect a fire leads to additional methods to keep your family safe.
  • Notifies professional monitoring representatives: Fires will happen when you are home or away. No matter of the situation, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring agents, who are able to quickly contact the fire department. When seconds count, it's great to know that a trained professional is consistently watching over your residence.
  • Integrates with home automation: Even though the chief task of a fire alarm is to identify fire and request help, it can also connect to other automated devices. For example, a activated alarm could make your system turn on the exhaust fan to impede the fire or turn on the lights so you may find the safest exit out of the house.

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

The easiest method to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to pair them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint expert today and customize the ideal smart home for your needs. Diall (704) 457-8797 or send in the form below to begin.