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

In the Arlington smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, there’s really only one champion. Smoke detectors are a vital first step in protecting your place from a dangerous blaze, but they have some notable drawbacks. Conversely, monitored fire alarms have more methods to identify a potentially dangerous situation and may contact your support team when disaster strikes. Pairing your fire alarms to a comprehensive smart home also results in many other advantages that your common smoke detectors would only hope for.

Ordinary smoke alarms can only do this one thing

Protecting your home from fire is important, and smoke detectors perform a vital role in keeping your family safe. However, smoke detectors have various shortcomings. For instance, they are only able to detect smoke, not high temps. In the event there is an emergency in your house, you might not be warned before the smoke reaches the smoke detector. While there are additional unmistakable indications of fire -- including a marked increase in warmth -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get a sounding of your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only beep when they detect enough smoke. When a fire starts small, you may not be cautioned until it's too late. Many smoke detectors employ dual-sensor technology, meaning they will detect smoke from both a blazing inferno and something less intense. Whenever they sound their alarm, it's up to the occupant to contact the fire department after safely leaving the residence.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than regular smoke detectors

While they have a similar appearance to regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If integrated to a total home security installation, they will:

• Identify fire with different sensor types: Similar to a standard smoke detector, the monitored device can trigger from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will sound an easily audible alarm whenever it recognizes danger.

• Discover fire from a rapid heat surge: A monitored fire alarm may also trigger if it notices an uncommon heat surge. Typically, heat is noticed before smoke. Having additional means to uncover a fire leads to extra ways to safeguard your family.

• Alerts your dedicated monitoring agents: Fires can happen whether you are on site or somewhere else. Either way, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring agents, who can rapidly contact emergency services. When every moment matters, it's nice to have the knowledge that a trained professional is constantly looking out for your residence.

• Integrates with home automation: Even though the chief job of a fire alarm is to detect fire and call for help, it will also connect to other automated components. For instance, a tripped alarm could prompt your system to turn on the exhaust fan to impede the flames or turn on smart light bulbs so you can locate the best path out of your home.

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

The best way to optimize your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint specialist today and discover the most suitable smart home for your needs. Call (703) 791-1576 or submit the form below to get started.