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

In the Albany smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, one device rises over the other. Smoke detectors are an essential line of defense in guarding your residence from a dangerous blaze, but they have a few concerning limitations. On the other hand, monitored fire alarms have more ways to discover a fire and may notify help in the event of a disaster. Pairing your fire alarms to a security system also brings out many extra perks that your ordinary smoke detectors would only dream about.

Ordinary smoke alarms will only do this one thing

Fire safety is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors perform a vital role in shielding your family. However, smoke detectors have various shortcomings. For instance, they are only able to identify smoke, not heat. When there is a fire in your home, you would not be cautioned until the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Even though there are some other significant signs of fire -- including a sudden rise in heat -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get a sounding of your smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they detect ample smoke. When a fire begins slowly, you may not be alerted until the flames are out of control. Some smoke detectors utilize dual sensors, which means they will detect smoke from both a raging fire and smoldering remnants. Whenever they do go off, it’s required of the homeowner to contact emergency services after safely leaving the property.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than standard smoke detectors

While they look like traditional smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. When linked to a complete home security package, they are able to:

• Detect fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Similar to an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored component has the ability to activate from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will sound a high-decibel beeping whenever it perceives a hazardous situation.

• Discover fire with a rapid rise in heat: Your monitored fire alarm will even trigger if it notices an unusual heat surge. Frequently, heat is noticed in advance of smoke. Added means to detect a fire leads to extra ways to protect your loved ones.

• Notifies your dedicated monitoring representatives: Fires can happen when you are home or away. Regardless, your fire alarms will notify your monitoring specialists, who will quickly place a call to the fire department. When seconds count, it's comforting to know that someone is consistently keeping a watch of your residence.

• Pairs with home automation: Even though the chief task of a fire alarm is to recognize dangerous situations and request help, it can also join forces with other automated devices. For instance, a triggered alarm might make your system engage the exhaust fan to impede the flames or trigger lighting so you may locate the best path out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are a key element of a comprehensive smart home

The best method to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint security agent today and find the most suitable smart home for your needs. Call (518) 900-7096 or submit the form on this page to take the first step toward a safer property.