Vivint Authorized Retailer Indianapolis
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Indy, Carmel, Fishers & All Of Central Indiana

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

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Indianapolis smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm discussion, one device rises above the rest. Smoke detectors are a vital first step in shielding your house from fire, but they have a few concerning drawbacks. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms have more means to detect an emergency and can notify your support team when the unthinkable happens. Connecting your fire alarms to a comprehensive smart home also results in many other perks that your regular smoke detectors would only wish for.

Your ordinary smoke alarms in Indianapolis could be inadequate

Fire safety is a chief concern for homeowners, and smoke detectors take on a critical part in keeping your family safe. Despite that fact, smoke detectors have their limitations. For example, they are only able to react to smoke, not extreme temperatures. When there is a fire in your home, you might not be cautioned unless the smoke rises to the smoke detector. Although there are further telltale signs of fire -- such as a sharp increase in warmth -- if there's no smoke, you won’t have a sounding of your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only activate when they encounter ample smoke. In the event a fire begins slowly, you may not be alerted until the situation is out of hand. Some smoke detectors utilize dual-sensor technology, which means they will recognize smoke from both roaring flames and a more gradual burn. Then when they sound their alarm, it's up to the homeowner to call the fire department after exiting the residence.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than standard smoke detectors

Even though they have a similar appearance to traditional smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms can do much more. When connected to a comprehensive home security package, they will:

  • Discern fire with different sensor types: Similar to a standard smoke detector, this monitored alarm can activate from an active or passive fire. It will sound a high-volume alarm whenever it perceives danger.
  • Detect fire with a rapid rise in heat: A monitored fire alarm may also trigger if it discerns an uncommon fluctuation in temperature. Many times, heat is noticed prior to smoke. Having additional means to identify a fire equates to additional ways to keep your family safe.
  • Notifies professional monitoring representatives: Fires can occur whether you are home or away. No matter of the situation, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring specialists, who will quickly call first responders. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's nice to know that someone is consistently watching over your house.
  • Pairs with home automation: While the primary task of a fire alarm is to recognize dangerous situations and call for help, it may also connect to other automated devices. To illustrate, a tripped alarm could prompt your system to start the exhaust fan to hinder the fire or initiate lighting so you may locate the quickest path out of your home.

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

The best way to get the most from your fire alarms is to connect them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint expert today and find the ideal smart home for your needs. Call (317) 978-5706 or send in the following form to begin.