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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Oakland smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's clear that a monitored fire alarm is the better alternative"> for your house. Smoke detectors are an important consideration in shielding your residence from a dangerous blaze, but they have a few concerning limitations. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms offer more methods to discover an emergency and can notify help when disaster strikes. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also delivers various other benefits that your common smoke detectors could 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 part in safeguarding your family. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have some drawbacks. For example, they can only identify smoke, not heat. In the event there is a fire in your home, you might not be warned before the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Although there are further unmistakable indications of fire -- such as a sudden rise in heat -- if you don’t have smoke, you won’t have a sounding of your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only beep when they find an adequate amount of smoke. If a fire starts small, you may not be alerted until it's too late. Various smoke detectors utilize more than one sensor, which means they will be able to perceive smoke from both a blazing inferno and smoldering remnants. Then when they sound their alarm, it's up to the homeowner to call first responders after exiting the residence.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than ordinary smoke detectors

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

  • Detect fire with multi-sensor technology: Similar to a traditional smoke detector, this monitored device has the ability to engage from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will sound an easily audible alarm when it recognizes a hazardous situation.
  • Detect fire due to a abrupt temperature increase: Your monitored fire alarm will also go off if it senses an uncommon increase in heat. Typically, heat arrives in advance of smoke. Added means to uncover a fire equates to additional methods to keep your family safe.
  • Alerts your dedicated monitoring specialists: Fires will occur when you are home or away. Regardless, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring specialists, who can swiftly contact first responders. When every moment matters, it's great to know that somebody is always keeping a watch of your residence.
  • Pairs with home automation: Although the chief task of a fire alarm is to detect fire and call for assistance, it may also integrate with other automated devices. For example, a triggered alarm could prompt your system to start the exhaust fan to impede the spread of fire or turn on lighting so you are able to see the best way out of the house.

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

The simplest way to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to pair them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint expert today and find the ideal smart home for your needs. Call (510) 281-3999 or complete the form below to take the first step toward a safer property.