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Is there a difference between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Mesa?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Mesa smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, it's obvious that a monitored fire alarm is the superior option"> for your family. Smoke detectors are a vital first step in protecting your house from fire, but they have a few concerning shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms offer more methods to identify an emergency and may contact your support team when disaster strikes. Pairing your fire alarms to a security system also delivers various other benefits that your regular smoke detectors can only dream about.

The limitations of ordinary smoke alarms in [[targetlocaion]]

Fire safety is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors perform an essential role 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 may not be alerted until the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Although there are some other significant signs of fire -- like a sudden rise in heat -- if there's no smoke, there is no warning from your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they encounter enough smoke. If a fire creeps along slowly at first, you might not be alerted until the flames are out of control. Various smoke detectors use more than one sensor, meaning they will recognize smoke from both a raging fire and smoldering remnants. Then when they do go off, it's up to the resident to notify the fire department after exiting the property.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than standard smoke detectors

Even though they look about the same as traditional smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. When linked to a complete home security installation, they are able to:

  • Detect fire with multi-sensor technology: Like a traditional smoke detector, the monitored device will activate from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will sound a high-decibel beeping when it perceives a potential disaster.
  • Detect fire from a sudden heat surge: Your monitored fire alarm can even activate if it senses an uncommon heat surge. Many times, heat comes in advance of smoke. Added ways to detect a fire equates to additional methods to safeguard your family.
  • Alerts trained monitoring agents: Fires may occur when you are on site or somewhere else. Regardless, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring team, who can swiftly contact the fire department. When seconds count, it's nice to know that somebody is constantly keeping a watch of your residence.
  • Pairs with home automation: Although the primary job of a fire alarm is to detect fire and request assistance, it can also integrate with other automated components. For example, a triggered alarm could induce your system to start the exhaust fan to slow the fire or turn on lighting so you are able to find the quickest exit out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are an important aspect of a complete smart home

The easiest method to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint security agent today and discover the most suitable smart home for your requirements. Call (480) 568-6350 or complete the form below to get started.