Is there a difference between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in San Antonio?

In the San Antonio smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's evident that a monitored fire alarm is the superior option"> for your family. Smoke detectors are a vital line of defense in guarding your place from a dangerous blaze, but they have some notable shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms offer more means to discover an emergency and can contact your support team in the event of a disaster. Linking your fire alarms to a comprehensive smart home also delivers many other perks that your regular smoke detectors could only hope for.

Regular smoke alarms will only do one thing

Fire safety is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors play a vital part in safeguarding your family. However, smoke detectors have their shortcomings. For example, they will only react to smoke, not extreme temperatures. When there is a fire in your home, you might not be alerted unless the smoke reaches the smoke detector. While there are additional telltale indications of fire -- such as a sharp heat increase -- if you don’t have smoke, you won’t have a warning from your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only activate if they encounter an adequate amount of smoke. When a fire begins slowly, you may not be cautioned until it's too late. Some smoke detectors use more than one sensor, which means they will be able to perceive smoke from both a raging fire and smoldering remnants. If they start beeping, it's up to the occupant to call emergency services after safely leaving the residence.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than standard smoke detectors

While they have a similar appearance to standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. If connected to a complete home security installation, they are able to:

• Discern fire with different sensor types: Similar to an ordinary smoke detector, your monitored alarm will engage from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will emit a high-decibel warning if it recognizes danger.

• Detect fire from a abrupt temperature increase: Your monitored fire alarm may also go off if it discerns an uncommon heat surge. Many times, heat comes before smoke. Having additional means to uncover a fire means additional methods to protect your loved ones.

• Warns professional monitoring specialists: Fires may occur whether you are home or away. No matter of the situation, your fire alarms will warn your monitoring agents, who will quickly contact first responders. When seconds count, it's comforting to realize that someone is constantly watching over your residence.

• Connects to home automation: Even though the main purpose of a fire alarm is to recognize dangerous situations and request assistance, it may also integrate with other automated components. For example, a tripped alarm might prompt your system to turn on the exhaust fan to impede the spread of fire or turn on lighting so you may locate the safest exit out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are a key element of a fully equipped smart home

The easiest way to optimize your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint security agent today and find the ideal smart home for your requirements. Diall (210) 934-3694 or submit the form below to get started.