Universal Sensing Plus Smoke & Fire Alarms – Frequently Asked Questions

What is Universal Security Sensing® Plus Multi Criteria Detection?

Many smoke and fire alarms use an ionization or photoelectric sensor in identifying fire patterns. Ionization smoke alarms excel in detecting fast, flaming fires, whereas photoelectric smoke alarms specialize in identifying slow smoldering fires. By only focusing on one fire profile, a smoke detector can greatly hamstring itself in its overall effectiveness. Universal Security Sensing® Plus Multi Criteria Detection removes the dated use of single sensor technology by being able to detect both types of fires. This is achieved via a Sensing Plus® Detector’s use of artificial intelligence that can quickly recognize both types of fires. You’ll no longer be limiting yourself when it comes to selecting the correct smoke and fire sensor for your home.

These Alarms Feature Ten Year Permanent Power. What’s That?

A decade’s worth of uninterrupted detection against smoke, fire and carbon monoxide (depending on the alarm) is an excellent way to start. Universal Security Instruments has elected to use permanent power alkaline batteries for their alarms as opposed to lithium batteries. An altogether safer option to implement in a smoke, fire and carbon monoxide alarm, alkaline batteries also carry the added bonus of being labeled eco-friendly as they’re easily disposable. In the event of an emergency, lithium batteries are susceptible to exploding when exposed to excessive heat or fires. It’s an unfortunate reality that could possibly worsen an already dangerous scenario. Lithium batteries are also classified as hazardous waste and can’t easily be tossed into the trash. For these reasons and others, Universal Security Instruments has chosen to go with Ten Year Permanent Power with alkaline batteries.

What About Nuisance Alarms and the Warranty?

Everyone at one time or another has experienced a false alarm or nuisance alarm trigger. Whether it was part of a drill or an early 3 am wakeup call, nuisance and false alarms can at best be annoying and at worst be dangerous. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has indicated that nuisance alarms (due to cooking or steam) are the leading reason for homeowners to disconnect or turn off their smoke alarms. All Universal Security Sensing Plus® Alarms come equipped with a built in microprocessor that eliminates virtually all false alarms. Their especially effective in not alerting the surrounding area to common nuisance alarm triggers such as everyday cooking smoke and steam. All Sensing Plus® Alarms also feature a ten year warranty that covers both the alarm and the battery.

Do Universal Security Sensing Plus® Alarms conform with UL Standard 217 8th Edition?

Yes, all Universal Security Sensing Plus® Detectors conform to the new standard. The UL released new safety standards and performance requirements for smoke alarms with their UL 217 8th Edition Update. The update primarily focuses on the evolving nature of modern day home layouts and how to provide earlier and more accurate detection. The UL states that it’s becoming increasingly common to find homes that feature furniture comprised of synthetic materials. These materials are capable of burning hotter and faster when compared to others. Factor in the more open layouts of homes and the problems presented seem too obvious to ignore. This led industry experts and the UL to design new smoke alarm performance requirements. Another primary issue for the UL to tackle was ensuring the reduction of nuisance alarms to prevent homeowners from disabling their detectors. Universal Security Sensing Plus Smoke, Fire & Carbon Monoxide Alarms all use a built-in microprocessor that virtually eliminates nuisance alarms.

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