5 Smart Ways to Make Your Home a Smart Home
A smart home allows you to stay connected to your home while you are away, and it can also help with energy management. Even builders these days are being challenged to incorporate smart devices into their homes. There’s the big stuff like solar panels on your roof. But if you are not looking to make that kind of an investment, here are some fairly simple ways you can have a connected home.
1. Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat can save you money on your energy bills. You can control your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning remotely, and it also shows you energy consumption in real time. Look for one that requires the least amount of programming and is easy to install. Some smart thermostats out there will even learn your schedule, so you’ll walk into your home that’s set for the perfect temperature at the end of the day.
2. Smart Appliances
Smart appliances are energy efficient and deliver every day convenience. Many are connected to the manufacturer and have a diagnostic feature, so when something goes wrong, the diagnostic feature tells the technician what the problem is before they arrive at your home. I have a smart fridge that will send me notifications when the filter needs changing and alerts me if the temperature is too high. Now that’s smart!
3. Smart Locks
A smart lock essentially replaces the need for keys (and spare keys!) You can lock and unlock your doors from anywhere. You can also assign family members codes so they can enter your home while you are away. I have the Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt because of the additional security features. It has a built-in alarm system, and that means peace of mind! A smart lock will also send you notifications when someone enters or leaves the home. If your kids are in school, I would recommend installing a smart lock. You can unlock the door remotely so they can enter the home, and lock it remotely to prevent them from opening the door to strangers.
4. Smart Lighting
Many of us have lights on a timer to deter burglars. But someone looking to enter your home can easily learn that your lights always come on at 7 pm. Smart lights allow you to program the lights for different times throughout the day. Smart lights can also go on when you enter the room and shut off when you leave. This means energy savings for you.
5. Home Control Hubs
A home control hub features a single app that can manage lighting, locks, security systems, thermostats. etc. It allows you to access the system and all connected devices while you are away from home. I have the Eaton Home Automation Hub, and it allows me to connect all my smart home gadgets. For example, I can set up a schedule through the app that enables my interior and exterior lights to turn on at a certain time.
Try these smart solutions, and you'll save energy and find peace of mind while customizing your home to you and your family's unique needs.