Smart devices have made life easy. Rather than walking up to a light switch, one can turn it on or off remotely using voice commands or pressing a button on a compatible smartphone app. Similarly, using smart gadgets, one can automate and control various other aspects of the house, such as the home security systems, temperature, and appliances. Most smart home devices work in harmony with each other by connecting to the internet.
Speakers
One of the most popular smart home devices, smart speakers serve as a central hub to control other smart home gadgets. Using them, one can control compatible devices, like thermostats, lights, fans, and locks. Smart speakers can also work as home assistants by functioning as newsreaders, setting alarms, and taking notes via voice commands.
Lights
Smart lighting is a top-rated smart home technology that allows one to automatically turn the lights on and off at a fixed time. These lights can also be linked to smart speakers, so one can use voice commands to control them. Moreover, smart lights are available in unique styles and with an assortment of illuminations. Users can change colors to set the ambiance at home and adjust the mood. Some smart lights also let users alter the intensity, making them extra bright or dim.
Thermostats
One can invest in this smart home automation tool to manage indoor temperature seamlessly. Smart thermostats can learn one’s temperature preferences and adjust heating and cooling accordingly to save energy and maintain comfort. Most of them are remotely controllable via a smartphone and also offer features like geofencing (software that adjusts temperature settings based on location) and scheduling. Furthermore, they offer near-accurate energy usage reports, helping homeowners reduce and save on utility bills.
Wi-Fi Plugs
These plugs save homeowners the trouble of going around the house to turn things off or on. Once a Wi-Fi plug is connected to a relevant appliance, it can be controlled using a smartphone or other compatible technology. For instance, one can connect a plug to the garage door to automatically open or close it or to the router to remotely restart it. It’s also easy to connect a Wi-Fi plug to a wired lamp to control it smartly. Most smart home plugs have built-in energy readers, allowing users to track power consumption and determine where they can cut down on usage. Users can also set timers so the plug turns off automatically at a scheduled time.
Televisions
A smart television can run on a range of operating systems. Most models have Wi-Fi modules and other connectivity essentials built into their mainframe, allowing users to connect to the internet and access content like on-demand music and videos over a web browser or dedicated application. Compatible smart TVs may also offer gesture and voice control features and have mouse-like cursors built in for easy navigation.
Security Cameras
With smart security cameras, users can monitor the inside and outside of the home, even when away. These cameras connect to a central server on the internet and record and transmit footage throughout the day. They have sensors to distinguish between residents, visitors, pets, and burglars and can notify the authorities if any suspicious activity is detected while a homeowner is away. Some models even have microphones to let the homeowner listen to what someone is saying or speak to someone standing in front of the camera via a smartphone app.
Monitors
Smart monitors track energy usage and help homeowners lower their utility bills. They also help detect power surges and prevent them from affecting appliances. Moreover, smart home monitors can detect potential issues, like water leaks and freezing pipes, and send alerts for user intervention. By doing so, they help one avoid repairs or emergencies, propagating long-term savings.
Microwaves
In addition to the basics, like reheating and grilling, smart microwaves have several auto-cook programs that let one use preset settings to automatically adjust power levels and cooking times. They also support voice controls and can be linked to a mobile app to control functions remotely.
Robot Vacuums
A smart vacuum can ease the burden of cleaning a floor by taking over the job automatically. Most smart vacuums have mapping features to learn the home layout and avoid obstacles during the cleaning process. They also come with sizable bins at the base charging station, which they empty after collecting all the dirt. Robot vacuums are ideal for homes with higher foot traffic and pets.
Smart Smoke and CO Sensors
It’s never too late to improve overall safety in a home, especially against fire hazards. Smart smoke and CO sensors can notify homeowners if there is an excessive rise in temperature or if a dangerous level of smoke and/or CO is detected. If there’s already a smoke and CO sensor without smart connectivity, one can consider replacing it.
