Smoke & Heat Detectors- Smoke detectors are available that will interface with your security system. The smoke detectors that are already in your home can’ t be tied into your security procedure. The device that the builder put in your home is either electrical, battery operated, or in many instances both, if you have the better quality detectors. Lifesaving smoke detectors should be in every home. If you elect to add some to the system, your existing detectors should be left in place, as they are still competent to help give early warning in case of a fire.
If you add a fabulous smoke detector to your system it should be placed in the highest point of the home as possible, as smoke will rise no matter where it originates. Some homeowners elect to place one in the downstairs room and top floor, and some want one added to every floor.
The technology that makes most of these devices work is “ photoelectric technology. ” This means the fact that detector basically takes a snapshot of the density of smoke which enters its chamber, and wants to see a density increase as it samples every few milliseconds. This technology makes the detector much more discriminating then its low-cost counterparts.
Many of they also detect temperature change because of their built in heat detectors. This means that it will go into any alarm condition, if the temperature in its class of coverage is rising immediately, even if there isn't a smoke yet. Independent heat detectors are also available, if you need an added degree about protection in areas just like kitchens, furnace rooms, attics and fireplaces. (Required to meet code, in some municipalities)
There are many advantages to adding fire devices towards your security system. Some of them are:
* Your detector is on all the time, even if your alarm is disarmed.
* The devices work off the power from your alarm system and use its reassurance power supplies should strength fail.
* The siren is going to emit a tone that is audibly different then some sort of burglary siren, so that you can differentiate.
* Your dispatch is being made without you trying to call for help all by yourself. This gives you more of their time to gather your loved ones and pets for primary exit.
* A dispatch will take place even if you are not home. Typically flames will be coming through your roof top, by the time your neighbors see them, and call for help. This early response may save your valuable pets and a good portion of your home.
* Insurance companies often give another discount, off your homeowners insurance, for having your fire system. These devices could effectively pay money for themselves, after a two years.
(INSIDE SCOOP! ) Some municipalities will not dispatch their limited resources to the automatic fire alarm, unless it is designed completely to local code. This is quite a expensive endeavor that, many homeowners in those regions can’ t justify. Businesses will have to do this, in order to receive an occupancy permit. Check with your native fire authority before paying for smoke or heat detectors that will not get a response.
Matthew Francis Alarms@expertsknow. com
22 year veteran of the alarm industry Installer, salesman, licensed alarm company user, monitoring station designer, promotions and marketing director with one of the worlds largest security merchants. He now works as a consumer advocate, teaching consumers how to buy or get systems without charge (without being taken). He is committed to being unbiased. His web site is usually http: //www. expertsknow. com
