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Are there differences between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Syracuse?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Syracuse smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, one device rises over the rest. Smoke detectors are a vital line of defense in protecting your residence from fire, but they have some notable shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms offer more means to detect a potentially dangerous situation and are able to notify help in the event of a disaster. Pairing your fire alarms to a home security system also brings out many other perks that your regular smoke detectors would only hope for.

Your regular smoke alarms in Syracuse might be inadequate

Defending against fire is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors play a critical part in keeping your family safe. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have their limitations. For instance, they are only able to detect smoke, not extreme temperatures. If there is an emergency in your home, you may not be cautioned until the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Although there are further unmistakable signs of fire -- such as a marked heat increase -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you won’t have a warning from your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only sound the alarm if they detect ample smoke. In the event a fire begins slowly, you may not be warned until the situation is out of hand. Many smoke detectors utilize dual-sensor technology, which means they will be able to perceive smoke from both a raging fire and something less intense. Then when they sound their alarm, it falls to the homeowner to contact first responders after exiting the residence.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than regular smoke detectors

While they look about the same as regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. If integrated to a complete home security installation, they are able to:

  • Identify fire with multi-sensor technology: Similar to a traditional smoke detector, this monitored component will trigger from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will emit a high-volume beeping whenever it recognizes a potential disaster.
  • Identify fire from a abrupt rise in heat: Your monitored fire alarm can also trigger if it notices an uncommon heat surge. Many times, heat is noticed before smoke. Having additional means to detect a fire leads to more ways to protect your loved ones.
  • Notifies trained monitoring agents: Fires can happen whether you are on site or somewhere else. Regardless, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring team, who will swiftly place a call to first responders. When every moment matters, it's nice to have the knowledge that a trained professional is constantly keeping a watch of your home.
  • Connects to home automation: Although the main purpose of a fire alarm is to recognize an emergency and call for assistance, it can also integrate with other automated components. For example, a activated alarm might make your system turn on the exhaust fan to impede the spread of fire or turn on smart light bulbs so you are able to see the safest path out of your home.

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

The easiest approach to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint security agent today and find the ideal smart home for your family. Call (315) 971-4719 or complete the following form to begin.