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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Trenton smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, there’s easily only one victor. Smoke detectors are an important consideration in guarding your place from fire, but they have several drawbacks. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms provide more ways to identify a fire and may contact a monitoring team when disaster strikes. Linking your fire alarms to a security system also results in many other perks that your ordinary smoke detectors can only wish for.

Ordinary smoke alarms will only do this one thing

Defending against fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors take on an essential part in keeping your family safe. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have their drawbacks. To illustrate, they are only able to detect smoke, not extreme temperatures. In the event there is a fire in your residence, you might not be warned unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Although there are further significant indications of fire -- such as a sharp increase in warmth -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get a sounding of your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only beep if they find enough smoke. When a fire starts small, you may not be cautioned until the situation is out of hand. Various smoke detectors utilize dual sensors, meaning they will detect smoke from both a raging fire and a more gradual burn. If they do go off, it falls to the occupant to notify the fire department after they safely leave the premises.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than regular smoke detectors

Although they have a similar appearance to standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If connected to a comprehensive home security package, they are able to:

  • Detect fire with different sensor types: Like a standard smoke detector, this monitored component will engage from an active or passive fire. It will resonate a high-volume beeping if it perceives a potential disaster.
  • Discover fire from a sudden rise in heat: A monitored fire alarm will also go off if it discerns an unusual heat surge. Frequently, heat arrives prior to smoke. More means to uncover a fire means additional means to protect your loved ones.
  • Warns trained monitoring specialists: Fires can happen when you are home or away. Either way, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring agents, who will quickly call first responders. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's nice to know that a trained professional is constantly looking out for your residence.
  • Pairs with home automation: Even though the chief job of a fire alarm is to detect fire and notify monitoring agents, it may also connect to other automated components. For example, a triggered alarm can make your system turn on the exhaust fan to hinder the flames or turn on smart light bulbs so you are able to see the best way out of your home.

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

The simplest approach to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint security agent today and discover the ideal smart home for your needs. Place a call to (609) 928-8223 or send in the form on this page to take the first step toward a safer property.