Vivint Authorized Retailer Spokane
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Spokane & Surrounding Areas

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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Spokane smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, one alarm rises over the rest. Smoke detectors are an essential consideration in shielding your house from emergency situations, but they have a few concerning shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms provide more ways to detect a fire and are able to contact help in the event of a disaster. Linking your fire alarms to a security system also results in additional benefits that your common smoke detectors could only dream about.

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

Fire safety is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors perform an essential role in shielding your family. However, smoke detectors have some shortcomings. To illustrate, they will only detect smoke, not high temps. When there is a blaze starting in your home, you would not be cautioned until the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. While there are additional telltale signals of fire -- such as a sharp rise in heat -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get a warning from your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only beep when they detect enough smoke. If a fire creeps along slowly at first, you might not be alerted until the flames are out of control. Many smoke detectors utilize dual-sensor technology, which means they will recognize smoke from both a raging fire and something less intense. Whenever they sound their alarm, it’s required of the resident to notify emergency services after exiting the residence.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than ordinary smoke detectors

Even though they look about the same as standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. When connected to a complete home security installation, they are able to:

  • Detect fire with different sensor types: Comparable to an ordinary smoke detector, your monitored alarm has the ability to activate from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will resonate a high-decibel warning if it perceives a potential disaster.
  • Identify fire with a abrupt heat surge: A monitored fire alarm can even trigger if it discerns an unusual fluctuation in temperature. Typically, heat is noticed in advance of smoke. Having additional methods to identify a fire equates to additional methods to keep your family safe.
  • Alerts trained monitoring agents: Fires will take place whether you are home or away. Either way, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring specialists, who are able to rapidly place a call to emergency services. When every moment matters, it's comforting to have the knowledge that a trained professional is consistently looking out for your residence.
  • Integrates with home automation: While the chief task of a fire alarm is to detect an emergency and request monitoring agents, it will also connect to other automated devices. For instance, a activated alarm could prompt your system to engage the exhaust fan to hinder the flames or initiate smart light bulbs so you may see the best way out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are part of a complete smart home

The simplest approach to get the most from your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Consult with a Vivint security agent today and customize the most suitable smart home for your needs. Place a call to (509) 794-3440 or send in the form below to take the first step toward a safer property.