Are there differences between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Grand Rapids?

In the Grand Rapids smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, there’s really only one winner. Smoke detectors are an essential first step in shielding your place from a dangerous blaze, but they have some notable shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms have more methods to detect an emergency and may reach out to a monitoring team in the event of a disaster. Pairing your fire alarms to a home security system also delivers additional benefits that your regular smoke detectors can only hope for.

The limitations of ordinary smoke alarms in [[targetlocaion]]

Defending against fire is important, and smoke detectors perform an essential part in shielding your family. However, smoke detectors have some limitations. For instance, they can only identify smoke, not extreme temperatures. In the event there is a blaze starting in your house, you might not be alerted until the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Although there are additional telltale indications of fire -- including a sharp increase in warmth -- if there's no smoke, you won’t have a warning from your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only beep if they encounter enough smoke. In the event a fire begins slowly, you may not be warned until the situation is out of hand. Many smoke detectors use dual-sensor technology, meaning they will detect smoke from both a raging fire and smoldering remnants. Whenever they start beeping, it’s required of the occupant to call emergency services after safely leaving the residence.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than regular smoke detectors

While they look like standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. When linked to a total home security system, they will:

• Detect fire with different sensor types: Comparable to a traditional smoke detector, your monitored device will trigger from an active or passive fire. It will sound a high-volume alarm if it perceives danger.

• Detect fire due to a rapid temperature increase: A monitored fire alarm will even go off if it discerns an uncommon heat surge. Typically, heat arrives before smoke. More means to identify a fire equates to extra means to safeguard your family.

• Warns professional monitoring representatives: Fires can occur when you are home or away. Regardless, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring agents, who will rapidly call the fire department. When seconds count, it's great to know that a trained professional is constantly keeping a watch of your home.

• Pairs with home automation: While the main task of a fire alarm is to detect fire and notify monitoring agents, it will also connect to other automated devices. For example, a triggered alarm might prompt your system to turn on the exhaust fan to impede the spread of fire or initiate the lights so you may see the best exit out of the property.

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

The best way to get the most from your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint expert today and discover the perfect smart home for your family. Place a call to (616) 747-8419 or complete the following form to take the first step toward a safer property.