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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Kalamazoo smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, one component rises above the rest. Smoke detectors are an essential line of defense in guarding your house from emergency situations, but they have some notable shortcomings. On the other hand, monitored fire alarms have more methods to identify a fire and may notify help when disaster strikes. Connecting your fire alarms to a home security system also delivers many extra perks that your ordinary smoke detectors would only dream about.

Your traditional smoke alarms in Kalamazoo could be inadequate

Defending against fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors play an essential part in keeping your family safe. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have their shortcomings. For instance, they can only detect smoke, not high temps. In the event there is an emergency in your home, you may not be alerted unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. While there are further significant signs of fire -- such as a sharp rise in heat -- if you don’t have smoke, you will fail to get a warning from your smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only sound the alarm if they detect enough smoke. If a fire starts small, you may not be cautioned until it's too late. Some smoke detectors employ more than one sensor, meaning they will be able to perceive smoke from both a raging fire and something less intense. Then when they start beeping, it falls to the resident to call first responders after they safely leave the property.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than regular smoke detectors

Even though they look like standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. If linked to a comprehensive home security installation, they are able to:

  • Discern fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Comparable to an ordinary smoke detector, this monitored device has the ability to engage from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will sound a high-volume warning if it senses a potential disaster.
  • Detect fire due to a sudden rise in heat: Your monitored fire alarm may also go off if it senses an abnormal heat surge. Frequently, heat arrives prior to smoke. More methods to identify a fire means extra ways to protect your loved ones.
  • Warns trained monitoring representatives: Fires will happen whether you are home or away. Regardless, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring agents, who will rapidly call the fire department. When seconds count, it's comforting to know that someone is always looking out for your residence.
  • Integrates with home automation: While the primary task of a fire alarm is to detect dangerous situations and request monitoring agents, it can also connect to other automated equipment. For example, a tripped alarm can make your system engage the exhaust fan to hinder the fire or initiate lighting so you can locate the quickest path out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a comprehensive smart home

The simplest method to get the most from your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint expert today and customize the ideal smart home for your requirements. Diall (269) 280-0186 or submit the form below to begin.