There are several types of smoke alarm configurations that I am aware of - I wanted to get some advice on which may be better for my setup.
Solution 1 -
Description: Replace HV smokes with the GE 350 series that have relays. Tie those relays into your alarm panel and use them to call the monitoring station if a fire is detected.
Advantages: Less ceiling clutter and cost
Disadvantages: I think this may lead to false alarms. I think HV smokes are a bit more sensitive and the panel can't power cycle them to verify it isn't a false alarm. False alarms can be expensive.
Solution 2 -
Description: Place several LV smokes in key areas - downstairs and upstairs hallway. Use one smoke with a relay and tie that into a non-alarming input - just for notification.
Advantages: More items on the ceiling and more cost. Less likely for a false alarm to be called in. Still have HV alarms to get people out of the house.
Disadvantages: Unable to know which HV alarm triggered. Might take longer for alarm company and thus firefighters to your residence. Less LV wire to run.
I am leaning towards solution 2 to save some cost and I think get a more accurate indication of if a fire started. Are there arguments I missed for solution 1 or disadvantages of solution 2 that I also missed?
Solution 1 -
Description: Replace HV smokes with the GE 350 series that have relays. Tie those relays into your alarm panel and use them to call the monitoring station if a fire is detected.
Advantages: Less ceiling clutter and cost
Disadvantages: I think this may lead to false alarms. I think HV smokes are a bit more sensitive and the panel can't power cycle them to verify it isn't a false alarm. False alarms can be expensive.
Solution 2 -
Description: Place several LV smokes in key areas - downstairs and upstairs hallway. Use one smoke with a relay and tie that into a non-alarming input - just for notification.
Advantages: More items on the ceiling and more cost. Less likely for a false alarm to be called in. Still have HV alarms to get people out of the house.
Disadvantages: Unable to know which HV alarm triggered. Might take longer for alarm company and thus firefighters to your residence. Less LV wire to run.
I am leaning towards solution 2 to save some cost and I think get a more accurate indication of if a fire started. Are there arguments I missed for solution 1 or disadvantages of solution 2 that I also missed?
