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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Lawrence smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, it's evident that a monitored fire alarm is the better option"> for your house. Smoke detectors are a vital consideration in shielding your residence from a dangerous blaze, but they have some notable limitations. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms have more means to discover a fire and can reach out to help when disaster strikes. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also results in various extra benefits that your regular smoke detectors can only dream about.

Ordinary smoke alarms can only do this one thing

Defending against fire is important, and smoke detectors perform an essential role in keeping your family safe. Even so, smoke detectors have their shortcomings. For example, they are only able to identify smoke, not heat. When there is a fire in your residence, you would not be cautioned unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Even though there are some other significant indications of fire -- including a sudden rise in heat -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you won’t have a warning from your smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only sound the alarm if they encounter ample smoke. When a fire begins slowly, you may not be warned until the situation is out of hand. Many smoke detectors utilize dual sensors, meaning they will be able to perceive smoke from both roaring flames and smoldering remnants. If they do go off, it’s required of the homeowner to notify emergency services after safely leaving the residence.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than standard smoke detectors

While they look like standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If connected to a total home security installation, they are able to:

  • Discern fire with multi-sensor technology: Comparable to a traditional smoke detector, the monitored component has the ability to engage from an active or passive fire. It will resonate an easily audible alarm whenever it perceives a potential disaster.
  • Detect fire with a abrupt temperature increase: A monitored fire alarm may also go off if it notices an uncommon increase in heat. Many times, heat arrives in advance of smoke. Added methods to identify a fire leads to more means to keep your family safe.
  • Notifies trained monitoring agents: Fires may occur when you are on site or somewhere else. No matter of the situation, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring agents, who are able to rapidly place a call to emergency services. When every moment matters, it's great to know that somebody is always watching over your residence.
  • Pairs with home automation: Although the chief purpose of a fire alarm is to recognize dangerous situations and call for assistance, it will also join forces with other automated equipment. To illustrate, a triggered alarm can induce your system to turn on the exhaust fan to hinder the flames or turn on smart light bulbs so you may find the best exit out of the house.

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

The easiest approach to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint security agent today and find the perfect smart home for your family. Place a call to (785) 829-4689 or submit the following form to get started.