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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the San Jose smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's clear that a monitored fire alarm is the superior option"> for your family. Smoke detectors are an important consideration in guarding your place from a dangerous blaze, but they have several limitations. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms provide more ways to identify an emergency and can reach out to a monitoring team when disaster strikes. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also brings out other benefits that your regular smoke detectors can only hope for.

The drawbacks of traditional smoke alarms in [[targetlocaion]]

Protecting your home from fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors play an essential part in shielding your family. Even so, smoke detectors have various shortcomings. For instance, they are only able to identify smoke, not high temps. In the event there is an emergency in your home, you might not be cautioned until the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Even though there are further telltale signs of fire -- like a sudden increase in warmth -- if you don’t have smoke, you will fail to get a warning from your smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only beep if they detect an adequate amount of smoke. In the event a fire creeps along slowly at first, you may not be cautioned until it's too late. Various smoke detectors employ dual-sensor technology, meaning they will recognize smoke from both roaring flames and smoldering remnants. Whenever they do go off, it's up to the homeowner to call the fire department after exiting the residence.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than ordinary smoke detectors

Even though they look like traditional smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If linked to a total home security system, they are able to:

  • Discern fire with different sensor types: Like an ordinary smoke detector, your monitored alarm has the ability to activate from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will resonate an easily audible beeping if it recognizes a potential disaster.
  • Detect fire due to a sudden rise in heat: A monitored fire alarm may also trigger if it notices an abnormal increase in heat. Many times, heat comes before smoke. Added ways to detect a fire means additional means to safeguard your family.
  • Alerts your dedicated monitoring representatives: Fires will occur whether you are home or away. Regardless, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring team, who can swiftly contact the fire department. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's nice to have the knowledge that someone is consistently looking out for your home.
  • Connects to home automation: Although the main task of a fire alarm is to detect fire and call for monitoring agents, it may also join forces with other automated components. For example, a triggered alarm can prompt your system to start the exhaust fan to hinder the fire or turn on lighting so you may find the best path out of the property.

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

The best method to get the most from your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint security agent today and customize the most suitable smart home for your needs. Diall (408) 790-0318 or send in the form below to get started.