Is there a difference between regular smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in San Francisco?

In the San Francisco smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm argument, there’s easily only one champion. Smoke detectors are a vital line of defense in guarding your house from fire, but they have several drawbacks. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms provide more means to discover a fire and are able to contact your support team when disaster strikes. Linking your fire alarms to a home security system also results in extra benefits that your regular smoke detectors can only dream about.

The drawbacks of ordinary smoke alarms in [[targetlocaion]]

Defending against fire is important, and smoke detectors perform an essential role in shielding your family. However, smoke detectors have various shortcomings. To illustrate, they will only detect smoke, not high temps. In the event there is a fire in your house, you may not be alerted unless the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. While there are some other telltale signs of fire -- such as a marked heat increase -- if there's no smoke, you will fail to get a sounding of your smoke detector.

What’s more, smoke detectors only sound the alarm when they detect an adequate amount of smoke. When a fire begins slowly, you may not be cautioned until the situation is out of hand. Various smoke detectors utilize more than one sensor, which means they will be able to perceive smoke from both a raging fire and a more gradual burn. Then when they sound their alarm, it falls to the resident to contact the fire department after exiting the property.

Monitored fire alarms provide more value than regular smoke detectors

While they have a similar appearance to regular smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. If integrated to a complete home security installation, they will:

• Detect fire with different sensor types: Similar to an ordinary smoke detector, the monitored component will activate from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will resonate a high-decibel beeping if it perceives danger.

• Identify fire with a rapid temperature increase: Your monitored fire alarm can also trigger if it discerns an uncommon increase in heat. Typically, heat is noticed prior to smoke. Added means to uncover a fire equates to additional means to protect your loved ones.

• Warns trained monitoring specialists: Fires may happen when you are on site or somewhere else. Either way, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring team, who will rapidly place a call to emergency services. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's nice to have the knowledge that someone is always keeping a watch of your residence.

• Pairs with home automation: While the main job of a fire alarm is to recognize an emergency and call for help, it can also join forces with other automated devices. For instance, a triggered alarm might make your system turn on the exhaust fan to slow the flames or initiate lighting so you are able to find the best exit out of your home.

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

The best approach to maximize the functionality of your fire alarms is to integrate them with a Vivint home security system. Contact a Vivint expert today and find the ideal smart home for your needs. Diall (415) 969-9484 or send in the form on this page to begin.