Technology is becoming more and more infused in every aspect of our lives. Many homes are starting to embrace it and become “smart homesâ€. This simply means that many things in the home can be controlled remotely, using a smart phone or your own voice. Making your home a smart home can be a daunting task if you are not a techie, but the end result will make things convenient and user-friendly. If you are really apprehensive about DIYing a smart home, get in touch with an Asbury Electric electrician, and we will be more than happy to help. For those of you who are interested in making the upgrade yourself, here are a few tips on where to start and how to proceed.
Smart phones have opened new worlds that can be carried around in your pocket. Imagine being able to turn off the lights, lock the front door, and adjust the temperature of your home, all while you are away from home. There are tons of little upgrades you can make in your home that will make it a smart home. One of the most useful upgrades might be a smart thermostat. There are programmable thermostats that you can set to change the temperature at certain times. If you go to work at 9 am everyday, you can set the thermostat to maintain a warmer temperature when no one is home in the summer, and then lower the temperature just before you get home. This saves you money and you don’t have to remember to change the settings every morning before you leave. However, if you have a smart thermostat that is linked to your phone, you can program your thermostat remotely. Let’s say it’s the middle of November and you are going home early because you’re sick. Instead of waiting until you’re home to adjust the temperature, you can tell the thermostat to raise the temperature while you are getting into your car. Now all you have to do is go home and curl up on the couch, which is already nice and toasty.
Another great feature that can easily be installed in your smart home are smart lights. Maybe you left the light on when you went to work, or maybe you’re on vacation and want to strategically have lights on while you’re away. Or you simply hate getting up to turn the light out at bedtime. There are a variety of options, all that can be controlled by your smart phone.The most basic fix is to purchase a smart outlet. This plugs into your wall outlet and you plug the cord of your light into the smart outlet. The smart outlet communicates with your smart phone and it can turn the light on and off remotely. These smart outlets can work with any of your existing electronics, if they have basic on and off switches. Make your home a smart home and make your life a little easier.
Security systems have also gotten smart. Pretty much any modern system has smart capabilities that can send you real time video of from your home. They also can include locks that are controlled remotely by your smart phone and video doorbells. This allows you to remotely view and communicate with anyone that comes to the front door. This allows you and the security company to monitor your home with real time information. It’s also a safer than leaving a spare key hiding somewhere. Unlock the door from work when your kids get home from school and keep an eye on them. By making your home a smart home, this upgrade will keep your family safe and give you peace of mind.
Another simple upgrade to incorporate smart technology can be found in the baby section. Newer models of baby monitors have video and two-way radio capabilities so not only can you hear the baby, you can also talk to him or her. One of the most frustrating things about monitors can be if the baby moves around in the crib. You may have the camera set up at a good angle, but if the baby rolls over, it makes it difficult to see. Smart cameras can be remotely controlled to move and change angles, making it easier to keep an eye on baby without having to go in and risk waking them. Monitoring temperature in the room is another aspect of newer monitors that can help keep your baby comfortable and safe. These monitors work remotely with an app on your smart phone. Don’t let the term “baby monitor†confuse you. They aren’t just for babies – big kids and pets can also be monitored.
Homes become more and more intertwined with technology every day. Making a few upgrades to your home will make your life easier, more comfortable, and safer. If you are unsure where to start, get in touch with an Asbury Electric electrician for advice and even installation.
For more ideas on how to make your home a smart home, check out https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/gadgets/easy-way-make-your-house-or-apartment-smart-home-n667661
