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What's the difference between traditional smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Hammond?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Hammond smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, one device rises above the rest. Smoke detectors are an essential first step in protecting your house from fire, but they have a few concerning shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms provide more methods to detect a fire and can reach out to your support team in the event of a disaster. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also brings out extra advantages that your ordinary smoke detectors would only hope for.

The drawbacks of ordinary smoke alarms in [[targetlocaion]]

Defending against fire is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors play an essential role in safeguarding your family. Even so, smoke detectors have various shortcomings. For example, they will only detect smoke, not high temps. If there is a fire in your home, you may not be alerted unless the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Even though there are some other unmistakable signs of fire -- such as a sharp increase in warmth -- if there's no smoke, there is no sounding of your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they find enough smoke. In the event a fire starts small, you may not be warned until it's too late. Some smoke detectors utilize dual sensors, which means they will detect smoke from both a blazing inferno and smoldering remnants. Whenever they do go off, it falls to the occupant to notify the fire department after they safely leave the residence.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than regular smoke detectors

Even though they look like standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If connected to a total home security package, they can:

  • Identify fire with different sensor types: Like a standard smoke detector, this monitored device can activate from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will emit a high-decibel beeping if it perceives a potential disaster.
  • Discover fire due to a sudden rise in heat: A monitored fire alarm will even activate if it notices an abnormal increase in heat. Typically, heat comes prior to smoke. Added means to identify a fire means more methods to protect your loved ones.
  • Alerts professional monitoring agents: Fires may occur when you are on site or somewhere else. Either way, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring specialists, who are able to rapidly contact the fire department. When every moment matters, it's comforting to have the knowledge that somebody is consistently watching over your home.
  • Pairs with home automation: Although the main task of a fire alarm is to identify fire and request monitoring agents, it may also join forces with other automated components. For example, a activated alarm might induce your system to turn on the exhaust fan to slow the fire or initiate lighting so you are able to find the best path out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a comprehensive smart home

The simplest way to optimize your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint expert today and customize the ideal smart home for your requirements. Place a call to (219) 500-8943 or send in the form below to begin.