What's the difference between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Charleston?

In the Charleston smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, it's clear that a monitored fire alarm is the superior option"> for your family. Smoke detectors are an important line of defense in protecting your place from emergency situations, but they have several shortcomings. On the other hand, monitored fire alarms provide more means to identify a potentially dangerous situation and are able to reach out to a monitoring team when the unthinkable happens. Linking your fire alarms to a security system also results in extra perks that your regular smoke detectors would only hope for.

Your ordinary smoke alarms in Charleston could be falling short

Defending against fire is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors perform a critical part in shielding your family. Even so, smoke detectors have some limitations. For example, they are only able to identify smoke, not extreme temperatures. In the event there is a blaze starting in your house, you may not be warned before the smoke reaches the smoke detector. Although there are some other significant indications of fire -- such as a marked rise in heat -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get a warning from your smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they detect ample smoke. In the event a fire begins slowly, you might not be warned until the flames are out of control. Some smoke detectors employ dual sensors, meaning they will be able to perceive smoke from both a blazing inferno and smoldering remnants. Whenever they do go off, it's up to the resident to call emergency services after safely leaving the residence.

Monitored fire alarms offer more benefits than standard smoke detectors

Although they look like regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. When linked to a complete home security installation, they are able to:

• Identify fire with different sensor types: Comparable to a traditional smoke detector, the monitored device has the ability to engage from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will emit an easily audible alarm when it senses a potential disaster.

• Identify fire from a abrupt temperature increase: Your monitored fire alarm will also go off if it senses an uncommon heat surge. Typically, heat arrives before smoke. More methods to identify a fire leads to more ways to safeguard your family.

• Warns your dedicated monitoring specialists: Fires can happen whether you are at your house or not. Either way, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring agents, who can rapidly call emergency services. When every moment matters, it's great to know that someone is always keeping a watch of your residence.

• Connects to home automation: While the primary job of a fire alarm is to recognize dangerous situations and request help, it may also integrate with other automated equipment. For example, a triggered alarm can induce your system to start the exhaust fan to impede the fire or initiate lighting so you can locate the quickest exit out of your home.

Your monitored fire alarms are an important aspect of a fully equipped smart home

The simplest approach to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint expert today and find the most suitable smart home for your requirements. Diall (304) 902-6244 or complete the form below to begin.