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What's the difference between traditional smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Corpus Christi?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Corpus Christi smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, there’s really only one winner. Smoke detectors are a vital first step in protecting your residence from a dangerous blaze, but they have several shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms have more means to discover an emergency and can reach out to your support team when the unthinkable happens. Connecting your fire alarms to a home security system also brings out various additional benefits that your common smoke detectors could only dream about.

Your traditional smoke alarms in Corpus Christi might be falling short

Protecting your home from fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors take on an essential part in shielding your family. Even so, smoke detectors have various shortcomings. For instance, they are only able to react to smoke, not extreme temperatures. If there is a fire in your home, you may not be cautioned before the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Although there are additional telltale signs of fire -- including a marked rise in heat -- if there's no smoke, there is no sounding of your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only activate if they find an adequate amount of smoke. If a fire begins slowly, you might not be alerted until the flames are out of control. Many smoke detectors use more than one sensor, which means they will detect smoke from both roaring flames and something less intense. Whenever they do go off, it's up to the homeowner to notify first responders after exiting the residence.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than ordinary smoke detectors

While they look about the same as regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. If integrated to a comprehensive home security installation, they will:

  • Identify fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Like a standard smoke detector, the monitored alarm has the ability to engage from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will sound an easily audible beeping when it recognizes danger.
  • Identify fire with a rapid rise in heat: Your monitored fire alarm will even trigger if it notices an uncommon heat surge. Frequently, heat is noticed before smoke. More methods to uncover a fire leads to additional methods to protect your loved ones.
  • Alerts professional monitoring representatives: Fires will take place whether you are on site or somewhere else. Either way, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring team, who are able to rapidly place a call to the fire department. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's comforting to realize that a trained professional is always keeping a watch of your home.
  • Connects to home automation: While the main task of a fire alarm is to identify an emergency and notify monitoring agents, it may also join forces with other automated equipment. For instance, a triggered alarm could induce your system to start the exhaust fan to slow the spread of fire or initiate the lights so you may locate the safest way out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are an important aspect of a complete smart home

The best way to optimize your fire alarms is to pair them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint specialist today and find the most suitable smart home for your needs. Diall (361) 733-2385 or send in the form below to take the first step toward a safer property.