Updating your home with smart technologies will not only make your family’s life simpler, but it can also add to the security and safety of your home. In recent months we’ve seen a rise in smart home technologies, yet many homeowners remain unaware of the range of sophisticated products that are available to them. Many think that investing in the latest smart home technology is too fancy or expensive for them—however, many of these solutions can end up saving you money over time. Take a look at five of the most cutting-edge technologies that will revolutionize your home, and bring it into 2015.
Smart Lighting
Imagine instead of being woken up harshly to the sound of a jarring alarm clock in the morning, being gently awoken by the lights in your room. Intuitive wireless lighting systems allow homeowners to create light-based reminders and adjust their lighting and brightness based on their mood, all through the power of a smartphone app. And it’s not just the lighting that the homeowner can adjust, but the color too. Users are able to scan any color with their camera, and the lighting system will illuminate the room in the homeowner’s color of choice.
Self Programming Thermostats save Time & Money
There are several hands free self-programming thermostats on the market. These devices allow homeowners to save time and money by putting their heating and cooling in the hands of their thermostats. The thermostat detects when residents in the home and intuitively cools down the home and begins heating the home again upon the homeowner’s arrival. These systems are wildly popular for a reason, so if your home is still without a smart thermostat, consider making the upgrade.
Enhanced Security via Smart Home Control Systems
Smart home control systems usually involve a touch panel interface, and allow homeowners to automatically turn on lights when an individual enters a room by utilizing small built-in cameras. These devices can also be used as security cameras and homeowners have the ability to link two or more together to create an entire home network of cameras and sensors. If you plan to have a home security system installed in your home, make sure that you find a system that you understand and can properly operate and arm yourself. If you don’t fully understand how to use the system, you leave the home vulnerable to burglars and high-tech hackers.
Smart Locks Provide Advanced Safety
Smart home locks only unlock with the fingerprint of an authorized individual. The product lets the homeowner assign virtual keys on a permanent basis as well as a temporary basis for other guests. This technology allows homeowners to monitor who is coming and going from the residence remotely, via their smartphone by using the companion app.
Smart Smoke Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Alerts
Many smart smoke alarms incorporate carbon monoxide detectors into their systems. If there is a danger, the homeowner is alerted with a text message if they are not currently in the home. This gives many parents and homeowner’s peace of mind—especially when traveling or on vacation.
It’s clear that smart home technologies will become a much bigger part of the way we think about the modern home. It’s important for homeowners to begin to explore these technologies as these products and devices will not only enhance the security of the home, but can also contribute to saving time and money.
AUTHOR BIO:
This article was written by Dixie Somers, a freelance writer who loves to write for real estate, women’s interests, and the home niches. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. Dixie got advice for this article about home security systems from the professionals of Arpel Security Systems, a security company in Vancouver.