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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Orange County smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, it's clear that a monitored fire alarm is the superior choice"> for your home. Smoke detectors are an important first step in guarding your place from a dangerous blaze, but they have a few concerning limitations. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms offer more means to discover a fire and are able to contact your support team when disaster strikes. Linking your fire alarms to a security system also brings out many extra advantages that your ordinary smoke detectors could only wish for.

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

Fire safety is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors perform an essential part in keeping your family safe. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have their limitations. For example, they can only detect smoke, not high temps. When there is a fire in your residence, you would not be alerted until the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Even though there are additional telltale signs of fire -- such as a sudden increase in warmth -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you won’t have a warning from your smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only activate if they encounter enough smoke. If a fire begins slowly, you might not be alerted until it's too late. Many smoke detectors employ dual-sensor technology, which means they will be able to perceive smoke from both roaring flames and a more gradual burn. Then when they start beeping, it falls to the occupant to contact the fire department after exiting the residence.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than standard smoke detectors

Although they look like standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. When linked to a complete home security installation, they can:

  • Discern fire with multi-sensor technology: Comparable to a traditional smoke detector, this monitored alarm has the ability to engage from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will emit a high-volume alarm whenever it recognizes a hazardous situation.
  • Discover fire with a rapid temperature increase: Your monitored fire alarm may also go off if it senses an unusual heat surge. Many times, heat arrives prior to smoke. Having additional methods to uncover a fire leads to additional methods to keep your family safe.
  • Alerts your dedicated monitoring representatives: Fires can happen whether you are home or away. Either way, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring team, who are able to rapidly place a call to the fire department. When seconds count, it's nice to know that someone is consistently keeping a watch of your home.
  • Pairs with home automation: While the main job of a fire alarm is to detect an emergency and call for assistance, it may also join forces with other automated devices. For example, a activated alarm could make your system start the exhaust fan to hinder the fire or initiate the lights so you are able to locate the quickest exit out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are a key element of a fully equipped smart home

The best approach to get the most from your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint specialist today and find the ideal smart home for your requirements. Call (714) 769-8364 or submit the form on this page to take the first step toward a safer property.