Learn how to benefit from the latest Smart Home Technology
With the advent of the smartphone and its incorporation into our everyday lives, comes the next big wave in technology – The Smart Home. A Smart Home is usually considered any home with electronics, appliances, lights, and security systems which are controlled over a central network. These devices can be monitored and controlled from anywhere, provided there is a connection to the internet.
Recent trends show nearly half of homeowners and buyers consider Smart Home technology important in their current home, or want it in their next one. More than 50 percent said they would consider installing Smart Home technology to make their home more marketable to buyers. These upgrades have the potential to increase savings, safety, and resale value.
With the wide array of choices available for consumers, where should you begin to start making your home “Smart”? Here are five of the most popular gadgets:
- Smart Lights – Smart Light Bulbs can change brightness and color based on the time of day and can learn to adjust based on your lifestyle needs. They can also be controlled by an app and can last roughly 15 years.
Outlets – Swap out bulky timer modules for sleek Smart Wall Outlets. They can measure and record the power used by any device and increase its lifespan. - Smarter Smoke Detectors – The newer “Smart” Smoke Detectors can inform you if smoke or carbon monoxide is present, the level of danger, and which room it’s in – both in your home and also as a message to your phone. They are also capable of politely telling the owner when to change the batteries.
- Thermostat – Once installed, the device can learn your schedule, and will begin to program itself. Smart Thermostats can lower heating and cooling bills by up to 20% and end up paying for themselves in a very short period of time.
- Smart Locks – Replacing the traditional dead bolt, these locks can send picture alerts of visitors at your front door to your Smartphone. Easily monitor security and access to anyone while away from home, and never get locked out with their built-in on-call customer service.