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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Springfield smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, there’s easily only one victor. Smoke detectors are an important line of defense in protecting your house from emergency situations, but they have several shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms provide more means to discover a fire and are able to contact a monitoring team when the unthinkable happens. Connecting your fire alarms to a home security system also brings out various other perks that your regular smoke detectors could only wish for.

Your traditional smoke alarms in Springfield might be inadequate

Defending against fire is important, and smoke detectors play a critical role in shielding your family. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have some shortcomings. For instance, they are only able to react to smoke, not high temps. In the event there is a fire in your house, you might not be alerted unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Although there are some other unmistakable signals of fire -- like a marked rise in heat -- if you don’t have smoke, you will fail to get a sounding of your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only activate if they find an adequate amount of smoke. If a fire begins slowly, you may not be warned until the flames are out of control. Many smoke detectors use more than one sensor, meaning they will be able to perceive smoke from both a raging fire and smoldering remnants. If they do go off, it falls to the occupant to notify the fire department after safely leaving the property.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than regular smoke detectors

While they look about the same as traditional smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. When connected to a comprehensive home security package, they can:

  • Detect fire with different sensor types: Comparable to a standard smoke detector, this monitored device will engage from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will emit a high-volume beeping whenever it recognizes danger.
  • Detect fire with a rapid temperature increase: A monitored fire alarm may even trigger if it senses an unusual heat surge. Frequently, heat comes in advance of smoke. Having additional methods to uncover a fire leads to additional means to keep your family safe.
  • Alerts trained monitoring specialists: Fires can take place whether you are at your house or not. Regardless, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring specialists, who can quickly place a call to first responders. When every moment matters, it's comforting to know that a trained professional is always keeping a watch of your residence.
  • Pairs with home automation: While the chief job of a fire alarm is to detect an emergency and request monitoring agents, it can also connect to other automated devices. For example, a tripped alarm might prompt your system to turn on the exhaust fan to slow the fire or turn on lighting so you are able to find the best path out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are an important aspect of a comprehensive smart home

The best way to get the most from your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint specialist today and find the ideal smart home for your family. Diall (217) 627-6647 or send in the form below to begin.