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Are there differences between traditional smoke detectors vs. monitored fire alarms in Wausau?

August 08, 2022
smoke alarm detector on the ceiling

In the Wausau smoke detector vs. monitored fire alarm debate, it's evident that a monitored fire alarm is the preferred option"> for your home. Smoke detectors are an essential line of defense in shielding your place from emergency situations, but they have some notable shortcomings. Alternatively, monitored fire alarms offer more methods to identify a potentially dangerous situation and can reach out to a monitoring team in the event of a disaster. Connecting your fire alarms to a security system also delivers extra benefits that your ordinary smoke detectors can only hope for.

Your ordinary smoke alarms in Wausau might be falling short

Defending against fire is important, and smoke detectors perform a critical role in shielding your family. However, smoke detectors have various limitations. For instance, they are only able to identify smoke, not heat. If there is a fire in your home, you might not be cautioned before the smoke ascends to the smoke detector. Although there are additional telltale signs of fire -- including a marked rise in heat -- if there’s a lack of smoke, you won’t have a sounding of your smoke detector.

In addition, smoke detectors only beep when they detect enough smoke. If a fire creeps along slowly at first, you might not be alerted until the flames are out of control. Various smoke detectors employ more than one sensor, which means they will detect smoke from both roaring flames and something less intense. Then when they do go off, it falls to the occupant to contact first responders after exiting the property.

Monitored fire alarms do much more than regular smoke detectors

Although they look like standard smoke detectors, monitored fire alarms have added advantages. When integrated to a total home security installation, they are able to:

  • Identify fire with dual-sensor smoke detection: Comparable to a standard smoke detector, this monitored alarm has the ability to engage from a roaring blaze or smoldering embers. It will emit an easily audible warning if it recognizes a hazardous situation.
  • Detect fire due to a rapid heat surge: Your monitored fire alarm may even activate if it discerns an uncommon fluctuation in temperature. Typically, heat comes before smoke. Added means to uncover a fire means more methods to safeguard your family.
  • Alerts trained monitoring representatives: Fires will happen when you are on site or somewhere else. Either way, your fire alarms will alert your monitoring team, who will swiftly call emergency services. When every tick of the clock is critical, it's nice to have the knowledge that a trained professional is constantly looking out for your house.
  • Pairs with home automation: Even though the chief job of a fire alarm is to recognize an emergency and notify monitoring agents, it can also connect to other automated equipment. For example, a tripped alarm can make your system start the exhaust fan to slow the flames or turn on the lights so you may see the best way out of the property.

Your monitored fire alarms are part 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. Consult with a Vivint security agent today and discover the perfect smart home for your requirements. Diall (715) 662-6232 or submit the form below to begin.