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Are there differences between traditional smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Louisville?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Louisville smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's obvious that a monitored fire alarm is the better alternative"> for your family. Smoke detectors are a vital first step in guarding your place from a dangerous blaze, but they have several shortcomings. On the other hand, monitored fire alarms have more ways to discover an emergency and may contact your support team in the event of a disaster. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also brings out many additional perks that your regular smoke detectors would only hope for.

Your regular smoke alarms in Louisville could be inadequate

Fire safety is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors take on a vital part in keeping your family safe. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have various shortcomings. For example, they can only detect smoke, not heat. In the event there is an emergency in your home, you may not be alerted before the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Although there are further unmistakable signals of fire -- such as a marked heat increase -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you won’t have a sounding of your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only sound the alarm if they detect an adequate amount of smoke. In the event a fire begins slowly, you may not be alerted until it's too late. Many smoke detectors use dual-sensor technology, meaning they will be able to perceive smoke from both a raging fire and smoldering remnants. If they do go off, it’s required of the homeowner to notify the fire department after they safely leave the property.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than regular smoke detectors

Although they have a similar appearance to standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. When integrated to a complete home security installation, they can:

  • Detect fire with multi-sensor technology: Like a traditional smoke detector, your monitored component can trigger from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will resonate an easily audible alarm whenever it senses danger.
  • Discover fire due to a abrupt temperature increase: Your monitored fire alarm can even activate if it notices an unusual increase in heat. Many times, heat is noticed before smoke. Having additional methods to uncover a fire means more means to keep your family safe.
  • Warns your dedicated monitoring agents: Fires may take place when you are at your house or not. Regardless, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring agents, who are able to quickly call the fire department. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's nice to have the knowledge that a trained professional is always watching over your residence.
  • Pairs with home automation: While the main task of a fire alarm is to detect an emergency and request assistance, it may also integrate with other automated components. For example, a tripped alarm can make your system turn on the exhaust fan to slow the spread of fire or trigger smart light bulbs so you may find the best path out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are a key element of a complete smart home

The easiest method to get the most from your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint specialist today and find the most suitable smart home for your family. Call (502) 483-0778 or send in the following form to begin.