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Are there differences between standard smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in El Paso?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the El Paso smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's obvious that a monitored fire alarm is the preferred choice"> for your family. Smoke detectors are a vital first step in guarding your house from emergency situations, but they have some notable shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms have more ways to discover a fire and can reach out to help when disaster strikes. Connecting your fire alarms to a comprehensive smart home also delivers many extra perks that your ordinary smoke detectors could only dream about.

Regular smoke alarms can only do this one thing

Defending against fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors perform an essential part in shielding your family. However, smoke detectors have some shortcomings. For example, they can only react to smoke, not extreme temperatures. When there is a blaze starting in your home, you might not be warned before the smoke reaches the smoke detector. While there are further unmistakable indications of fire -- such as a sudden heat increase -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get a triggered smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only activate if they find an adequate amount of smoke. In the event a fire starts small, you might not be alerted until the flames are out of control. Many smoke detectors utilize dual-sensor technology, meaning they will recognize smoke from both a blazing inferno and a more gradual burn. Whenever they sound their alarm, it’s required of the occupant to call the fire department after safely leaving the premises.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than standard smoke detectors

Although they look about the same as traditional smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. If integrated to a complete home security system, they will:

  • Identify fire with multi-sensor technology: Comparable to a traditional smoke detector, this monitored device can engage from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will sound an easily audible beeping when it perceives a hazardous situation.
  • Discover fire from a abrupt heat surge: A monitored fire alarm may also go off if it notices an abnormal heat surge. Many times, heat is noticed in advance of smoke. More means to detect a fire leads to extra means to safeguard your family.
  • Alerts your dedicated monitoring agents: Fires can occur when you are home or away. Either way, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring agents, who are able to swiftly place a call to the fire department. When every moment matters, it's comforting to have the knowledge that someone is constantly keeping a watch of your home.
  • Connects to home automation: While the primary purpose of a fire alarm is to identify an emergency and call for help, it may also connect to other automated components. For example, a tripped alarm can prompt your system to engage the exhaust fan to hinder the spread of fire or initiate lighting so you may see the safest way out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are a key element of a fully equipped smart home

The best way to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint security agent today and find the perfect smart home for your requirements. Diall (915) 465-3064 or send in the following form to take the first step toward a safer property.