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Are there differences between traditional smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Columbus?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Columbus smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, there’s easily only one winner. Smoke detectors are an important line of defense in shielding your residence from emergency situations, but they have some notable drawbacks. Conversely, monitored fire alarms provide more methods to discover a potentially dangerous situation and are able to notify help when disaster strikes. Linking your fire alarms to a comprehensive smart home also results in various additional benefits that your ordinary smoke detectors can only dream about.

The limitations of standard smoke alarms in [[targetlocaion]]

Defending against fire is important, and smoke detectors play a vital role in safeguarding your family. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have various limitations. To illustrate, they can only identify smoke, not extreme temperatures. When there is an emergency in your house, you might not be warned until the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Even though there are further unmistakable signals of fire -- like a marked rise in heat -- if you don’t have smoke, you won’t have a triggered smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they find ample smoke. If a fire starts small, you might not be alerted until it's too late. Many smoke detectors use dual sensors, meaning they will detect smoke from both roaring flames and a more gradual burn. Whenever they sound their alarm, it's up to the homeowner to call first responders after they safely leave the property.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than regular smoke detectors

While they have a similar appearance to regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. If connected to a total home security package, they are able to:

  • Identify fire with multi-sensor technology: Like a traditional smoke detector, this monitored device will activate from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will sound a high-volume warning whenever it senses a potential disaster.
  • Identify fire due to a rapid heat surge: A monitored fire alarm can also activate if it notices an unusual fluctuation in temperature. Typically, heat is noticed prior to smoke. Having additional ways to uncover a fire equates to additional means to safeguard your family.
  • Alerts trained monitoring agents: Fires may occur when you are on site or somewhere else. No matter of the situation, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring specialists, who are able to swiftly call the fire department. When every moment matters, it's nice to know that a trained professional is always looking out for your home.
  • Pairs with home automation: While the main purpose of a fire alarm is to detect dangerous situations and request assistance, it will also connect to other automated equipment. For example, a activated alarm could make your system engage the exhaust fan to slow the flames or trigger the lights so you may locate the quickest path out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are a key element of a complete smart home

The easiest way to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint expert today and find the most suitable smart home for your family. Call (706) 770-6611 or complete the following form to take the first step toward a safer property.