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Are there differences between traditional smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Binghamton?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Binghamton smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's obvious that a monitored fire alarm is the preferred option"> for your home. Smoke detectors are an essential line of defense in protecting your house from a dangerous blaze, but they have several shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms provide more ways to discover a potentially dangerous situation and can contact a monitoring team when the unthinkable happens. Connecting your fire alarms to a home security system also results in additional perks that your ordinary smoke detectors would only wish for.

Regular smoke alarms will only do one thing

Defending against fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors perform an essential part in keeping your family safe. However, smoke detectors have some drawbacks. To illustrate, they can only identify smoke, not heat. In the event there is a blaze starting in your home, you would not be warned unless the smoke rises to the smoke detector. While there are some other unmistakable signs of fire -- including a marked increase in warmth -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you won’t have a triggered 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 warned until the situation is out of hand. Various smoke detectors employ more than one sensor, meaning they will recognize smoke from both roaring flames and a more gradual burn. Then when they do go off, it falls to the resident to call emergency services after safely leaving the residence.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than ordinary smoke detectors

While they have a similar appearance to traditional smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If linked to a comprehensive home security installation, they will:

  • Detect fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Like a traditional smoke detector, your monitored device will engage from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will resonate an easily audible beeping if it perceives a potential disaster.
  • Discover fire from a abrupt temperature increase: Your monitored fire alarm will even trigger if it discerns an unusual increase in heat. Frequently, heat is noticed prior to smoke. Having additional means to uncover a fire means more ways to safeguard your family.
  • Warns professional monitoring agents: Fires can take place when you are home or away. Regardless, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring team, who can quickly place a call to the fire department. When seconds count, it's great to have the knowledge that somebody is constantly looking out for your home.
  • Pairs with home automation: Even though the primary task of a fire alarm is to identify fire and call for monitoring agents, it can also connect to other automated equipment. For example, a triggered alarm could prompt your system to start the exhaust fan to impede the fire or initiate smart light bulbs so you can see the safest exit out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a comprehensive smart home

The easiest approach to optimize your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint expert today and find the ideal smart home for your requirements. Diall (607) 600-9610 or complete the following form to begin.