Explore a world of smart home technology and automation ideas, from remote-controllable lights to security systems you can use while away on vacation. There’s something for everyone when it comes to this exciting space!
Many of these devices are connected to one another via wireless radio protocols like Z-Wave, Zigbee or Wi-Fi. These make communication between your gadgets and the hub that controls them easy and fast.
Lighting
Smart home technology and automation ideas offer endless benefits that can make your house more energy-efficient, secure, and enjoyable. And the best part? You don’t need to start large; start small and expand as time goes on!
Lighting automation is a common and easily customizable system that can be used to set the mood or adjust light levels according to an occasion or activity.
For instance, a smart light system can be programmed to turn on at sunset and gradually brighten until sunrise, making it easier for people to get out of bed without disturbing neighbors or family members.
Smart lights are an ideal starting point for creating a connected home, as they can be controlled remotely and programmed to work with other devices like security cameras and thermostats. Plus, thanks to IFTTT support, you can connect them with various other apps so that you can automate various tasks around the house.
Security
Smart home technology enables homeowners to monitor and control their homes, leverage the Internet of Things (IoT) for improved living. This includes reducing energy usage and costs, increasing safety levels, as well as improving health and well-being outcomes.
Smart devices can be linked to a central hub that manages all their systems. This hub can be operated using either your smartphone app or voice commands.
Security features of a smart home system can also be enhanced. These include video analytics to recognize people, animals or vehicles; tripwires and activity zones which alert when something goes awry; as well as alarms to deter intruders.
These features can make a smart home an even more desirable place to live, increasing property values and giving home sellers greater negotiating power.
Energy
Smart home technology and automation ideas enable people to manage their home’s energy consumption, monitor temperature, and keep track of appliances – all from a mobile device. Furthermore, these capabilities enable people to monitor safety by alerting them if someone entered the house without permission or something is leaking in the basement.
Some devices even possess self-learning capabilities that enable them to adapt according to a homeowner’s schedule. For instance, a smart refrigerator could automatically order replacements of food as it runs out and adjust its contents accordingly.
Smart homes can also help you save money on your electricity bills. For instance, setting lights to automatically turn off or dim to 50% of their power when it’s dark helps them use less electricity and save you money in the process.
Some smart devices also come with remote control apps that let you monitor your energy usage from any location. This means you can manage your lights, appliances and security system from your phone even when away at work or vacation.
Entertainment
Imagine a home entertainment system where you can watch all your favourite shows, films and music in all rooms from one device. With remote control of lights, security systems and other gadgets through web browser access it’s not hard to see how this dream could become a reality.
What’s more, with self-monitoring analysis and reporting technology, all connected devices can alert you when something has been triggered in your home. That could include flashing lights when your office door is opened or changing the temperature on the thermostat when opening a window to let some fresh air in.
Voice-activated exercise machines and devices such as the Peloton that sync with your entertainment system for more engaging workouts are among the many intelligent devices now available on the market.