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What's the difference between standard smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Alpharetta?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Alpharetta smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, there’s easily only one winner. Smoke detectors are an essential consideration in protecting your residence from emergency situations, but they have several shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms offer more means to detect a fire and can notify a monitoring team when the unthinkable happens. Linking your fire alarms to a security system also delivers various extra benefits that your ordinary smoke detectors would only hope for.

Your regular smoke alarms in Alpharetta might be inadequate

Defending against fire is important, and smoke detectors perform a vital role in shielding your family. Even so, smoke detectors have various drawbacks. To illustrate, they can only identify smoke, not high temps. If there is a blaze starting in your residence, you would not be cautioned unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Even though there are further telltale indications of fire -- like a sudden heat increase -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get a sounding of your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they detect an adequate amount of smoke. If a fire starts small, you may not be cautioned until the flames are out of control. Many smoke detectors use dual sensors, meaning they will recognize smoke from both a blazing inferno and smoldering remnants. Whenever they sound their alarm, it falls to the homeowner to contact emergency services after they safely leave the residence.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than regular smoke detectors

While they look like regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If integrated to a complete home security installation, they will:

  • Discern fire with multi-sensor technology: Like a traditional smoke detector, the monitored device will activate from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will resonate a high-decibel warning if it perceives a hazardous situation.
  • Discover fire from a abrupt temperature increase: Your monitored fire alarm will also trigger if it discerns an uncommon fluctuation in temperature. Frequently, heat is noticed before smoke. Added methods to identify a fire equates to additional methods to safeguard your family.
  • Alerts trained monitoring representatives: Fires will take place when you are at your house or not. Regardless, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring agents, who are able to swiftly contact emergency services. When seconds count, it's nice to know that a trained professional is always looking out for your residence.
  • Integrates with home automation: Even though the chief task of a fire alarm is to detect dangerous situations and notify assistance, it may also connect to other automated components. For instance, a triggered alarm might prompt your system to start the exhaust fan to slow the fire or trigger smart light bulbs so you can see the safest exit out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a comprehensive smart home

The easiest approach to get the most from your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint expert today and find the ideal smart home for your requirements. Diall (678) 379-1627 or send in the form below to begin.