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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Virginia Beach smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, one alarm rises over the other. Smoke detectors are a vital line of defense in shielding your house from a dangerous blaze, but they have several limitations. On the other hand, monitored fire alarms have more ways to identify a fire and may reach out to your support team when disaster strikes. Linking your fire alarms to a comprehensive smart home also delivers many additional perks that your regular smoke detectors can only hope for.

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

Defending against fire is important, and smoke detectors perform an essential role in shielding your family. However, smoke detectors have various shortcomings. For instance, they are only able to react to smoke, not heat. In the event there is a blaze starting in your home, you would not be cautioned before the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Although there are further telltale indications of fire -- including a sudden rise in heat -- if there's no smoke, you won’t have a triggered smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only activate when they detect an adequate amount of smoke. In the event a fire starts small, you might not be warned until the flames are out of control. Some smoke detectors employ dual sensors, which means they will be able to perceive smoke from both roaring flames and something less intense. Then when they do go off, it's up to the homeowner to notify the fire department after they safely leave the premises.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than regular smoke detectors

Even though they look like traditional smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If integrated to a total home security package, they can:

  • Detect fire with different sensor types: Comparable to a traditional smoke detector, your monitored alarm has the ability to activate from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will emit a high-decibel alarm when it senses danger.
  • Identify fire from a sudden rise in heat: Your monitored fire alarm will even go off if it senses an abnormal fluctuation in temperature. Frequently, heat comes in advance of smoke. Having additional means to uncover a fire means extra methods to keep your family safe.
  • Warns your dedicated monitoring specialists: Fires may take place when you are on site or somewhere else. Regardless, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring specialists, who are able to quickly contact emergency services. When every moment matters, it's nice to have the knowledge that someone is always watching over your home.
  • Connects to home automation: Even though the chief task of a fire alarm is to detect fire and notify monitoring agents, it can also connect to other automated components. For example, a tripped alarm might prompt your system to start the exhaust fan to hinder the flames or initiate smart light bulbs 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 approach to optimize your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint specialist today and discover the perfect smart home for your requirements. Diall (757) 294-8561 or complete the form on this page to take the first step toward a safer property.