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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Lubbock smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, there’s easily only one winner. Smoke detectors are a vital consideration in protecting your residence from fire, but they have some notable shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms have more ways to identify a potentially dangerous situation and can reach out to your support team when the unthinkable happens. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also delivers many additional advantages that your ordinary smoke detectors can only wish for.

Your ordinary smoke alarms in Lubbock could be inadequate

Protecting your home from fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors play an essential role in safeguarding your family. Even so, smoke detectors have some shortcomings. For instance, they are only able to detect smoke, not heat. If there is a blaze starting in your residence, you might not be cautioned unless the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Although there are further telltale signs of fire -- including a sudden heat increase -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get 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 the situation is out of hand. Some smoke detectors employ more than one sensor, meaning they will detect smoke from both a blazing inferno and smoldering remnants. Then when they sound their alarm, it falls to the resident to notify first responders after safely leaving the premises.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than regular smoke detectors

Even though they look like regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. If connected to a total home security package, they are able to:

  • Detect fire with different sensor types: Like an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored alarm has the ability to engage from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will resonate a high-decibel beeping if it perceives a potential disaster.
  • Identify fire with a abrupt heat surge: Your monitored fire alarm can also trigger if it discerns an abnormal heat surge. Frequently, heat comes prior to smoke. Having additional methods to uncover a fire leads to additional ways to safeguard your family.
  • Notifies professional monitoring specialists: Fires may take place when you are on site or somewhere else. Either way, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring agents, who are able to rapidly contact emergency services. When seconds count, it's nice to realize that somebody is constantly looking out for your residence.
  • Pairs with home automation: Even though the primary purpose of a fire alarm is to identify fire and call for help, it will also integrate with other automated components. For instance, a activated alarm might induce your system to start the exhaust fan to slow the fire or turn on smart light bulbs so you are able to locate the safest exit out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a fully equipped smart home

The simplest method to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint expert today and find the most suitable smart home for your needs. Call (806) 615-4325 or send in the form below to take the first step toward a safer property.