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What's the difference between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Tulsa?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Tulsa smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's obvious that a monitored fire alarm is the preferred choice"> for your home. Smoke detectors are an essential line of defense in guarding your house from fire, but they have some notable shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms offer more means to detect a potentially dangerous situation and are able to notify a monitoring team when disaster strikes. Linking your fire alarms to a comprehensive smart home also results in various extra benefits that your ordinary smoke detectors would only hope for.

Ordinary smoke alarms will only do one thing

Fire safety is important, and smoke detectors take on a critical part in safeguarding your family. Even so, smoke detectors have some drawbacks. For instance, they are only able to identify smoke, not high temps. When there is a blaze starting in your house, you would not be cautioned unless the smoke reaches the smoke detector. While there are further unmistakable indications of fire -- including a sharp rise in heat -- if there’s a lack of smoke, there is no sounding of your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only beep if they encounter ample smoke. In the event a fire begins slowly, you may not be alerted until the situation is out of hand. Many smoke detectors utilize more than one sensor, which means they will be able to perceive smoke from both a raging fire and a more gradual burn. Whenever they sound their alarm, it’s required of the homeowner to contact first responders after exiting the premises.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than regular smoke detectors

While they look about the same as standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. If integrated to a comprehensive home security installation, they are able to:

  • Discern fire with different sensor types: Like an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored alarm can trigger from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will resonate a high-volume beeping if it perceives a hazardous situation.
  • Identify fire from a abrupt heat surge: A monitored fire alarm will also go off if it discerns an uncommon increase in heat. Typically, heat comes in advance of smoke. Added means to identify a fire leads to more ways to safeguard your family.
  • Alerts trained monitoring agents: Fires can take place when you are home or away. Regardless, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring agents, who can swiftly contact the fire department. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's great to know that a trained professional is always keeping a watch of your home.
  • Connects to home automation: Although the primary purpose of a fire alarm is to detect an emergency and notify help, it may also join forces with other automated equipment. To illustrate, a activated alarm could prompt your system to turn on the exhaust fan to slow the flames or initiate smart light bulbs so you are able to see the quickest exit out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a fully equipped smart home

The easiest approach to optimize your fire alarms is to pair them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint specialist today and discover the perfect smart home for your needs. Diall (918) 731-3376 or submit the following form to get started.