As a homeowner, you may be looking for the best smart home technology to create a well-integrated home ecosystem. Automated smart devices and appliances allow for easy use and seamless integration that is no longer just for high-end homes. Advancement in technology over the years has lowered prices on many of the top smart home devices allowing homeowners on any budget to take advantage of all the tools on the market. Through my decades of experience in smart home automation here are the smart home trends and the top areas to look at when upgrading your home’s technology.
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Smart home security
New smart home technology integrates enhanced security systems with smart surveillance devices and sensors. You can install, fire, contact and motion sensors to detect unexpected movement around your property. Security devices now allow you to receive alerts directly to your phone with video capabilities so you can see if it is a burglar or just the delivery man at your door.
Keyless entry and touchpad locks are another way to take your home security to the next level. Flood lights and motion sensors can also be connected to the system allowing them to automatically come on at night if they detect movement. These smart security systems are also great for when you are away on vacation as many of the higher end systems will alert law enforcement for you if the system is triggered. Understand what you need in a security system before upgrading to smart tech. If you only need a couple of cameras and a keypad, then don’t spend the extra money on tons of bells and whistles that you don’t need.
Smart thermostats
Smart thermostats have been around for a while and are likely already installed in your home. Thanks to new innovations you can now get much more from smart thermostats than those entry level ones from years ago. New smart thermostats allow you to pre-schedule temperatures in the home throughout the different seasons and configure them to your daily needs.
Use the smart thermostat to configure the climate in the home according to when you are there, so the heating and cooling switch off while you are away. Doing this helps save you money on your electric bill. So, if you have left for work in the middle of the summer and forgot to raise the temperature or turn off your cooling you can simply do this through the application on your phone instead of wasting money while you are not home. Many brands of smart thermostats are on the market so do a little research to find the right one for your home.
Advanced lighting
Smart lighting isn’t just about remotely controlling your lights anymore. Among the smart home trends, new technology allows you to do a lot more with your lighting. You can configure lighting schedules with individual rooms. Dim and change the lighting colors to set the theme and brightness to match your mood. Compatible lighting applications also allow you create lighting scenes for parties, integrate it with music or just set it for a relaxing night in. New smart home lights can also integrate with your home’s security system. Knowing how you want to use the lights in your home will help you decide on the best devices for your home. Do some research and find the right brand that fits your needs.
Home entertainment
Smart home entertainment systems are no longer limited to your television and audio set up. For instance, new artificial intelligence and augmented reality devices are being introduced to the home. Homeowners can configure these devices to certain specifications allowing you to change colors and textures of certain spaces to suit your mood and sync up with music or your what you are watching on television. AR elements like music, lighting and dimness can all be changed to the situation you are in. So, whether you are having a party and want to create a lively atmosphere or just want to watch a movie there are AR and AI devices to help you create the experience you want.
As new technology hits the market it can be confusing on what devices to get that will suit your needs. If you are new to smart home technology these areas are the best place to start. If you find yourself overwhelmed with smart home trends and the different options and devices contact your local smart home installer for a consultation.
Author: Jason Fischbeck is the Owner of Automated Environments in Mesa, Arizona. Automated Environments have been installing residential smart home technology in central Arizona for over 25 years.
