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Are there differences between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Logan?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Logan smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, there’s only one victor. Smoke detectors are an essential consideration in shielding your place from emergency situations, but they have some notable limitations. On the other hand, monitored fire alarms have more means to discover a fire and may contact a monitoring team when disaster strikes. Linking your fire alarms to a home security system also brings out various additional advantages that your common smoke detectors would only hope for.

Ordinary smoke alarms can only do one thing

Protecting your home from fire is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors take on an essential role in shielding your family. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have various drawbacks. For instance, they can only detect smoke, not heat. In the event there is an emergency in your residence, you might not be warned unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. While there are some other telltale signals of fire -- like a sudden rise in heat -- if you don’t have smoke, you won’t have a triggered smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only activate when they detect an adequate amount of smoke. If a fire begins slowly, you may not be warned until it's too late. Some smoke detectors use dual sensors, meaning they will be able to perceive smoke from both a raging fire and smoldering remnants. Whenever they sound their alarm, it’s required of the occupant to contact the fire department after safely leaving the premises.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than ordinary smoke detectors

While they look like regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. If integrated to a total home security installation, they are able to:

  • Detect fire with different sensor types: Comparable to an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored device has the ability to trigger from an active or passive fire. It will resonate a high-decibel warning if it recognizes a hazardous situation.
  • Detect fire with a abrupt heat surge: A monitored fire alarm can also trigger if it notices an unusual heat surge. Many times, heat arrives prior to smoke. More methods to uncover a fire means additional means to protect your loved ones.
  • Warns your dedicated monitoring specialists: Fires will take place whether you are home or away. Regardless, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring specialists, who will swiftly place a call to emergency services. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's nice to realize that someone is consistently keeping a watch of your residence.
  • Connects to home automation: While the chief task of a fire alarm is to detect fire and call for assistance, it can also integrate with other automated devices. For example, a tripped alarm might induce your system to start the exhaust fan to hinder the flames or trigger the lights so you are able to see the best way out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a fully equipped smart home

The best way to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint security agent today and customize the ideal smart home for your needs. Diall (562) 376-5457 or send in the form below to take the first step toward a safer property.