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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Akron smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, it's clear that a monitored fire alarm is the better choice"> for your house. Smoke detectors are an essential consideration in guarding your house from fire, but they have several limitations. Conversely, monitored fire alarms offer more methods to identify an emergency and are able to contact a monitoring team when disaster strikes. Linking your fire alarms to a security system also brings out many extra perks that your common smoke detectors can only wish for.

Your regular smoke alarms in Akron might be inadequate

Fire safety is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors take on a vital role in safeguarding your family. However, smoke detectors have some limitations. For example, they can only detect smoke, not extreme temperatures. In the event there is a fire in your residence, you might not be warned unless the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Although there are some other telltale signs of fire -- such as a sudden rise in heat -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you won’t have a triggered smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only activate if they encounter ample smoke. When a fire begins slowly, you may not be alerted until it's too late. Many smoke detectors utilize dual-sensor technology, which means they will detect smoke from both a raging fire and a more gradual burn. Then when they start beeping, it’s required of the homeowner to contact emergency services after exiting the premises.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than regular smoke detectors

While they look about the same as regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. When linked to a comprehensive home security package, they are able to:

  • Identify fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Like a traditional smoke detector, the monitored component can trigger from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will resonate a high-decibel alarm when it senses a hazardous situation.
  • Identify fire due to a rapid temperature increase: A monitored fire alarm will even activate if it notices an uncommon increase in heat. Typically, heat comes before smoke. More means to identify a fire leads to extra methods to keep your family safe.
  • Alerts professional monitoring agents: Fires may occur whether you are at your house or not. Regardless, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring agents, who can rapidly contact first responders. When every moment matters, it's comforting to realize that a trained professional is consistently keeping a watch of your residence.
  • Integrates with home automation: Although the main job of a fire alarm is to identify an emergency and request assistance, it will also integrate with other automated equipment. For instance, a activated alarm can induce your system to turn on the exhaust fan to hinder the spread of fire or trigger lighting so you are able to see the safest way out of the house.

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

The simplest approach to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to pair them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint security agent today and discover the perfect smart home for your needs. Call (330) 632-1171 or submit the form on this page to get started.