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What's the difference between standard smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Jacksonville?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Jacksonville smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, one component rises over the rest. Smoke detectors are a vital consideration in protecting your place from a dangerous blaze, but they have several limitations. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms have more means to discover a fire and may notify help in the event of a disaster. Linking your fire alarms to a comprehensive smart home also results in extra perks that your regular smoke detectors could only hope for.

Your ordinary smoke alarms in Jacksonville might be inadequate

Fire safety is important, and smoke detectors play a critical role in keeping your family safe. However, smoke detectors have their drawbacks. For example, they are only able to identify smoke, not heat. If there is a blaze starting in your residence, you would not be alerted until the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Although there are further telltale indications of fire -- like a sudden rise in heat -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you won’t have a sounding of your smoke detector.

Additionally, smoke detectors only beep if they find ample smoke. When a fire creeps along slowly at first, you might not be cautioned until the flames are out of control. Various smoke detectors utilize dual-sensor technology, meaning they will be able to perceive smoke from both a raging fire and smoldering remnants. If they start beeping, it’s required of the homeowner to call the fire department after exiting the premises.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than ordinary smoke detectors

Even though they have a similar appearance to regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. When integrated to a comprehensive home security system, they are able to:

  • Detect fire with different sensor types: Like a traditional smoke detector, your monitored device will engage from an intense fire or one that has just started smoking. It will sound a high-decibel alarm whenever it senses a hazardous situation.
  • Discover fire with a sudden heat surge: A monitored fire alarm will also trigger if it discerns an abnormal fluctuation in temperature. Many times, heat arrives prior to smoke. More means to uncover a fire means extra means to keep your family safe.
  • Alerts trained monitoring specialists: Fires will take place when you are on site or somewhere else. Regardless, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring agents, who can swiftly call emergency services. When every moment matters, it's great to know that a trained professional is always looking out for your house.
  • Connects to home automation: Even though the main task of a fire alarm is to identify fire and notify assistance, it can also connect to other automated equipment. For example, a triggered alarm can induce your system to turn on the exhaust fan to hinder the spread of fire or turn on the lights so you may locate the best exit out of the property.

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

The best approach to optimize your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Speak with a Vivint specialist today and discover the ideal smart home for your needs. Diall (904) 977-6139 or complete the form on this page to take the first step toward a safer property.