Is there a difference between traditional smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Bloomington?

In the Bloomington smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, one device rises above the rest. Smoke detectors are a vital consideration in shielding your place from fire, but they have some notable drawbacks. Conversely, monitored fire alarms provide more means to detect a fire and can notify help when disaster strikes. Pairing your fire alarms to a security system also results in many extra advantages that your common smoke detectors could only wish for.

Regular smoke alarms can only do this one thing

Defending against fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors take on a vital part in shielding your family. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have various drawbacks. For example, they will only identify smoke, not high temps. In the event there is a fire in your house, you might not be cautioned unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. While there are additional significant signals of fire -- such as a sudden increase in warmth -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get a triggered smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they find enough smoke. If a fire begins slowly, you might not be warned until it's too late. Many smoke detectors utilize more than one sensor, which means they will recognize smoke from both roaring flames and a more gradual burn. Then when they sound their alarm, it falls to the homeowner to call first responders after safely leaving the property.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than ordinary smoke detectors

Although they look like standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. When connected to a complete home security installation, they are able to:

• Identify fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Like a standard smoke detector, the monitored alarm can trigger from an active or passive fire. It will resonate a high-decibel warning when it recognizes a hazardous situation.

• Identify fire from a abrupt heat surge: A monitored fire alarm can also trigger if it discerns an abnormal increase in heat. Many times, heat comes in advance of smoke. Having additional methods to uncover a fire equates to extra ways to safeguard your family.

• Alerts trained monitoring specialists: Fires may happen whether you are on site or somewhere else. No matter of the situation, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring agents, who can quickly place a call to emergency services. When seconds count, it's great to know that someone is consistently watching over your house.

• Pairs with home automation: While the primary job of a fire alarm is to detect an emergency and notify help, it may also connect to other automated devices. For instance, a tripped alarm could prompt your system to start the exhaust fan to slow the spread of fire or trigger the lights so you can see the best way out of the property.

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

The easiest approach to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to pair them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint specialist today and customize the ideal smart home for your needs. Place a call to (812) 579-4884 or submit the following form to begin.