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Is there a difference between standard smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Chico?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Chico smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, one device rises above the other. Smoke detectors are a vital first step in guarding your house from a dangerous blaze, but they have a few concerning shortcomings. Conversely, monitored fire alarms offer more ways to identify an emergency and may notify help when the unthinkable happens. Linking your fire alarms to a home security system also results in extra benefits that your regular smoke detectors would only wish for.

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

Defending against fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors perform a critical part in keeping your family safe. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have some shortcomings. For example, they can only identify smoke, not high temps. When there is a fire in your home, you would not be alerted before the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Although there are some other telltale signs of fire -- such as a sharp increase in warmth -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get a warning from your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only activate if they detect an adequate amount of smoke. If a fire starts small, you may not be cautioned until the flames are out of control. Some smoke detectors use dual sensors, which means they will be able to perceive smoke from both roaring flames and something less intense. Then when they sound their alarm, it falls to the occupant to notify the fire department after they safely leave the property.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than regular smoke detectors

While they have a similar appearance to regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms offer more benefits. If integrated to a comprehensive home security package, they can:

  • Identify fire with different sensor types: Similar to an ordinary smoke detector, this monitored device can trigger from an active or passive fire. It will emit an easily audible alarm whenever it perceives a potential disaster.
  • Detect fire from a abrupt temperature increase: A monitored fire alarm may even go off if it notices an unusual heat surge. Many times, heat arrives before smoke. More means to detect a fire means more methods to keep your family safe.
  • Warns professional monitoring specialists: Fires will take place whether you are at your house or not. Either way, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring specialists, who can rapidly call emergency services. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's nice to know that a trained professional is always looking out for your house.
  • Connects to home automation: Even though the primary task of a fire alarm is to recognize fire and request help, it can also connect to other automated equipment. For example, a activated alarm can induce your system to engage the exhaust fan to slow the spread of fire or turn on smart light bulbs so you can locate the safest way out of the house.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a complete smart home

The simplest method to get the most from your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint specialist today and discover the most suitable smart home for your requirements. Call (530) 460-6338 or send in the following form to get started.