These days, smart gadgets and appliances are what’s running the household of many homeowners. For some, they buy these gadgets because they are the latest and they want the best for their homes. However, they are not realizing that investing or buying these smart appliances and gadgets is the first step to making their homes a smart home.
So, if you are intentionally transforming your humble abode into a smart home, how can you do it? The answer is upgrading your home appliances and home system in such a way that everything can be connected to a single control device.
If you are still a little confused, you can get started by investing in these gadgets:
Home Security System
For every home, security is always the main concern. So, if you are looking into automating your home, make sure that it is a hundred percent secure first. There are many home security systems available in the market these days. If you read a lot of reviews and articles on the Internet, like the ones you can easily find at norcoalarms.com, you will see that there are many options that you could go for. See what piques your interest and which best fits your needs and budget.
Ideally, your home alarm system should include a smart smoke detector, doorbell camera, motion detector, and security camera, among others. All these devices will all work together to help keep your home safe.
There are a lot of smart devices that are sold separately, and some companies also offer packages that include some or all of the devices necessary for your home security needs. All you have to do is choose which fits your needs and budget.
Smart Home Hub
A smart home hub is basically a device that will control all of the smart devices and appliances in your home. There are a lot of home hubs available in the market, like the Samsung SmartThings Hub, Wink Hub, Alexa, and more.
But, before you choose one amongst these smart hub options, it is imperative that you choose a side between WiFi vs Z Wave for smart home first. If you are unaware why you must choose first, then you need to read further.
Basically, there are two ways your smart appliances and devices can communicate together and be remotely controlled through one device. It is either through WiFi or Z Wave.
You have probably heard of WiFi already. It is what you use to connect your devices to the Internet. For smart homes to be streamlined and connected to one device for control, your smart devices and appliances at home must also connect to the WiFi.
However, using WiFi also has its downsides. For one, the more devices connect to it, the slower the connection becomes. It is also prone to many network interference. On the upside, WiFi has a bigger capacity for information, which can be extra helpful as well.
Z Wave, on the other hand, does not need the Internet to communicate with other devices. It also doesn’t need a single implement that would control all these devices. Z Wave uses the 908.42 MHz radio frequency, which allows for better connection and less interference.
So, now that you know the basics, it is up to you to decide. After reading all that you need to know, consider all the pros and cons and choose what fits you best.
Lighting
Normally, lighting in homes are just either on or off. But, these days, your lighting can do more than that and can be used in different conditions. Not to mention, the newest smart light bulbs are cost- and energy-efficient, helping you save more when it comes to electricity bills.
To make your home lighting smart, you can either replace your bulbs with smart bulbs, like Philips Hue.
You can also install a smart switch that can change the lighting options in the room, as well as adjust the dimming of the lights.
Thermostat
The air conditioning and heating system of the house is one of the most vital things that make the house comfortable to live in. It also tends to be the number one contributor in the increase of your bills.
So, when shifting from an ordinary to a smart home, it is advised that you invest in a smart thermostat, like Ecobee, Nest Smart, and other similar products. They are easy to install and use, and, most of all you, can remotely control them.
Appliances
There are many smart appliances available in the market these days. There’s a washing machine, a vacuum, a smart TV, and a whole lot more!
Just like what was mentioned previously, the idea is to find what is suited for your needs and budget. Of course, you should also consider their connectivity to what you have already bought to automate your smart home.
Conclusion
Smart home is not just a modern and automated home. The main goal of making a smart home is to make your home energy-efficient, comfortable, and safe, all at the same time. So, don’t waste your energy and start investing in smart devices and systems that would help you create a home that’s more convenient to live in.
