Home Automation 101
Home improvements are part of what you do when you own a home. Homeowners are always looking new ways to improve, enhance, and increase the value of their home.
Technology has changed the approach to home improvements. Just like in every other aspect of our lives, technology has taken over the household and this has led to the increased popularity of home automation.
What is home automation?
Building on the technology used in commercial companies and office buildings, home automation is the process of controlling your home activity using technology. It is no longer a nice to have or futuristic home feature – home automation is here and now. Home automation services are now offered by many different companies and can be customized to fit your home specific needs, regardless of the type of home you own. They are now being used as an upgrade to traditional home alarm systems.
What can be automated?
Simply put – virtually everything in your home can be automated. Here are some of the most common things that are being automated in the home:
- Lighting (interior and exterior)
- HVAC – Heating, ventilation and air conditioning
- Security systems, door locks, window locks
- Appliances
- Electronics
How and what you automate is completely up to you. While most companies offer automation packages, the technology exists to do virtually whatever you want – at a cost, of course.
Perhaps the most attractive feature of home automation is the ease of management. You don’t need to be a tech expert to use the system. In fact, you can manage the entire system on your computer, or using mobile devices such as your smartphone or tablet. This also allows you to control your home automation systems with actually having to be at home. You can control the system remotely from many different locations.
Benefits of Home automation
The continued growth and adaptation of home automation systems in homes across Canada can be attributed to the beneficial features these systems offer to home owners. Benefits include the following:
- Affordability: Home automation is much more affordable than most people realizing. You can get basic systems for low rates or more elaborate systems that have all the bells and whistles for an added expense.
- Convenience: Forget to turn on the alarm system? Forget to turn down the thermostat before you left the house? No problem. You can do it using your smartphone without even being home.
- Energy efficiency: With the ability to monitor your thermostat, lighting, and energy use, you can program your automation system to help you conserve energy and reduce energy consumption – something that will also help you save money.
- Security: Home automation systems are also very effective for security, one of the main reasons why people are adopting these systems. You can have remote surveillance using cameras online, monitor motion sensors and even be alerted of unauthorized movements.
Plus, having a home automation system may even help you save money on your home insurance.
Do you have a home automation system? Would you consider installing one in your home?