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What's the difference between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Duluth?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Duluth smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's clear that a monitored fire alarm is the preferred option"> for your home. Smoke detectors are a vital consideration in guarding your residence from fire, but they have a few concerning limitations. Conversely, monitored fire alarms provide more means to identify a potentially dangerous situation and may contact a monitoring team when disaster strikes. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also results in many additional benefits that your common smoke detectors would only wish for.

Traditional smoke alarms will only do this one thing

Protecting your home from fire is important, and smoke detectors take on a critical part in shielding your family. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have their drawbacks. For example, they are only able to react to smoke, not high temps. When there is a fire in your home, you might not be cautioned before the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Although there are further telltale signs of fire -- including a marked increase in warmth -- if there's no smoke, there is no warning from your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only sound the alarm if they encounter an adequate amount of smoke. If a fire creeps along slowly at first, you may not be cautioned until the situation is out of hand. Many smoke detectors use dual-sensor technology, meaning they will detect smoke from both roaring flames and a more gradual burn. If they start beeping, it's up to the homeowner to contact emergency services after they safely leave the property.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than regular smoke detectors

Although they look about the same as regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. If linked to a complete home security installation, they can:

  • Discern fire with multi-sensor technology: Comparable to an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored alarm will engage from an active or passive fire. It will emit a high-volume warning whenever it recognizes danger.
  • Identify fire due to a rapid rise in heat: A monitored fire alarm can even go off if it notices an uncommon heat surge. Frequently, heat is noticed prior to smoke. More means to detect a fire leads to more ways to safeguard your family.
  • Alerts trained monitoring agents: Fires can take place when you are at your house or not. Regardless, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring agents, who are able to rapidly contact first responders. When every moment matters, it's comforting to have the knowledge that somebody is consistently looking out for your residence.
  • Pairs with home automation: While the main task of a fire alarm is to detect dangerous situations and call for monitoring agents, it can also integrate with other automated components. To illustrate, a triggered alarm could prompt your system to turn on the exhaust fan to hinder the fire or turn on the lights so you can see the safest path out of your home.

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

The easiest method to get the most from your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint security agent today and find the perfect smart home for your family. Place a call to (218) 585-7945 or send in the form on this page to begin.