Smart homes have lots of benefits. They’re more convenient, they save energy and you can do just about anything from your phone. But when you’re a tech beginner, it can feel difficult to wrap your head around all those gadgets and gizmos. Luckily, turning your house into a smart home is easier than you’d think!
In this article, we’ll look at a few key features you can put in your smart home to make life a little easier. Let’s dive in!
The Hub
First things first, you need to understand how operating your smart home components works. You’ve probably seen commercials or read packages that say you just have to download the app to get started. But wouldn’t that lead to your phone screen littered with apps for lightbulbs, deadbolts, Plume Wi-Fi and your garage door?
Actually, no. Most smart home components integrate with a single Smart Home app so you can control everything from one place. This will be your home’s Hub.
Lightbulbs
Smart lightbulbs are usually the first thing people will put in their smart homes. Smart light bulbs have tons of different features, like dimming, color changing, auto on or off functions and even energy efficiency.
You can start slowly if you want to test the waters. Switch just your lamps or smaller lights to smart bulbs and see how you like being in total control. If you’re a fan of the experience, then you can switch out the rest of your house!
Thermostat
Another popular home tech option is a smart thermostat. Options like Nest and Ecobee are probably the most popular on the market but not your only choices. The benefits of smart thermostats include energy efficiency and keeping your utility bill down.
Many people also enjoy accessing their thermostats from their phones. If you’re cold while watching TV, you can bump up the temperature to your comfort level.
Or, if you don’t like to waste the AC while you’re at work, you can set up automatic schedules for the temperature in your home. The AC will kick off when you’re gone and come back on before you get home so you always get to enjoy your perfect temperature.
Security Cameras
Lots of homeowners have started using smart technology as a security measure too. Think of Ring doorbells. This doorbell has a video and audio function so you always know what’s happening around your home. Plus, they offer security cameras you can put in other spots around the house.
Although this might not seem like a beginner-friendly smart home choice, modern security cameras are relatively easy to set up yourself. Most companies also offer help desk access or professional installation for an extra fee.
Speakers and Displays
Smart speakers aren’t new to the market, but they’re still an incredibly convenient addition to your home. Things like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant can do everything from telling you the weather to playing your favorite song to lowering the volume on your TV.
In addition to smart speakers, you can also add smart displays like TVs or tablets that are voice-activated and programmed to your preferences. You might add a smart screen in your kitchen that tells you the weather and top headlines every morning. Or have a voice-activated TV so you never have to waste time searching for the remote again.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
The final item many beginner smart homeowners will add to their abode is smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. What makes these devices unique is that it not only sounds the alarm in your home but on your phone as well. So if you’re away from home and a problem is detected, you’ll be alerted right away. This allows you to protect your home and family even when you aren’t there.
Equipping your house to be a smart home is easier than you think. Use these few devices to get started and see if you like having control in the palm of your hand.