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Is there a difference between traditional smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Omaha?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Omaha smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, there’s really only one winner. Smoke detectors are an important first step in protecting your place from emergency situations, but they have some notable shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms have more methods to discover a fire and are able to reach out to a monitoring team when disaster strikes. Pairing your fire alarms to a home security system also delivers various additional benefits that your regular smoke detectors could only hope for.

Your regular smoke alarms in Omaha may be inadequate

Protecting your home from fire is a crucial consideration, and smoke detectors play a critical part in shielding your family. Even so, smoke detectors have their shortcomings. For instance, they will only identify smoke, not extreme temperatures. If there is a fire in your home, you might not be cautioned unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Although there are some other telltale signals of fire -- like a sudden heat increase -- if you don’t have smoke, you will fail to get a warning from your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they find enough smoke. When a fire starts small, you may not be warned until the situation is out of hand. Various smoke detectors employ dual sensors, meaning they will be able to perceive smoke from both roaring flames and a more gradual burn. Then when they sound their alarm, it’s required of the occupant to contact first responders after safely leaving the residence.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than regular smoke detectors

Although they have a similar appearance to standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If connected to a complete home security installation, they are able to:

  • Discern fire with multi-sensor technology: Similar to an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored alarm will activate from an active or passive fire. It will emit a high-decibel beeping if it recognizes danger.
  • Detect fire with a abrupt heat surge: Your monitored fire alarm may also trigger if it notices an uncommon heat surge. Frequently, heat arrives in advance of smoke. More means to uncover a fire means additional ways to safeguard your family.
  • Notifies professional monitoring representatives: Fires will occur whether you are at your house or not. Either way, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring team, who are able to swiftly place a call to first responders. When every moment matters, it's great to realize that someone is constantly watching over your residence.
  • Connects to home automation: Although the main purpose of a fire alarm is to identify fire and request monitoring agents, it may also integrate with other automated devices. For example, a activated alarm can induce your system to turn on the exhaust fan to hinder the fire or initiate smart light bulbs so you can locate the best way out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are an important aspect of a comprehensive 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 find the most suitable smart home for your family. Place a call to (402) 925-9471 or submit the following form to take the first step toward a safer property.