The future is here. More new houses feature home automation systems than ever before, and this is a trend that isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. So if you’re looking to bring your home into the 21st century, you are in the right place. Let’s take a look at home automation systems, what they are, and the benefits they can bring to your dream home.
What is Home Automation System?
Importance of Home Automation system for smart devices
Odds are, you have plenty of smart home devices in your home ranging from your phone, television, appliances and air-conditioning. Having a central smart hub provides a network to connect all these devices and allows you to control them through a single app rather than multiple controls or apps. Having one smart display through which you can operate everything streamlines the entire process. This can be accessed through multiple devices.
The Benefits of Home Automation Systems
Increased Resale Value
Smart homes are very quickly becoming the norm when it comes to new houses. A house design that is equipped with smart home devices will have an edge over homes that do not have these capabilities.
Enhanced Living Experience
Home automation systems will make everyday tasks more convenient and easier. From locking doors to adjusting the room temperature, everything can be done from any of your smart devices.
Entertainment options
Home automation can revolutionise your home entertainment experience. Whether you’re having a movie night or want to bust a move while cleaning, smart devices can make your home the place to be for a good time. There are many entertainment smart home gadgets you can add to your network including:
- Television
- Stereo
- Smart speakers
- Gaming devices (PlayStation, X-Box, Nintendo, etc)
Improves Safety
Smart home devices such as security systems, cameras, lighting and locks can greatly improve the overall safety of your home. From helping you see your way in the dark to ensuring your house is protected from unwanted visitors, smart home devices can greatly increase the safety of you and your loved ones.
Helpful for those with disabilities or mobility issues
Smart devices can be a game-changer for those with disabilities, mobility issues or any type of physical impairment. The ability to use voice commands or smart gadgets to operate other smart home devices will place less physical strain on the homeowner. It also makes life easier for carers, for example, automated lights remove the need to move around in the dark to find the switch. Having everything controllable from the palm of your hand.
Which Home Automation Systems is for you?
Smart Lights
Lighting is such a given in modern homes, that it can be taken for granted how much we rely on it. Automated lighting takes illuminating your home to the next level by removing the need to bumble for lightswitches or even needing to remember to turn the lights off
Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat allows you to control the temperature of the home from your smart device. From controlling your air-conditioning to programming times to ensure more s
Home Security System
Security systems play a vital role in any home. The biggest advantage that comes with smart security systems is the ability to check in on your home remotely, providing peace of mind, no matter where you are.
Some features that can be part of your home security system include:
- Surveillance Cameras
- Doorbell Cameras
- Smart Lights
- Alarms
- Lighting
Smart Locks
Smart locks have a wide range of benefits including:
- Remote Access: Check your lock’s status and operate it from anywhere
- No need for physical keys: Use passwords and codes to enter your home.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Home Automation System
Budget and scalability
We understand when you’re building a new home, you’re counting every last dollar and looking for ways to get the most from your money. The nice thing about an automated system is you don’t need to buy all your features and devices at once. Once the main network and hub are installed, you can add devices as you go. A well-designed system allows for future expansion options.
If you’re looking to budget with your smart home devices, consider what is essential and begin with those devices. For example, you may decide security cameras, lighting and air-con are all essential to have connected to your smart network, however, the garage door can wait a year or two.
Ease of Use
User-friendly interface and overall ease of use are key to an effective smart home setup. You want a system that both your tech-savvy kids and your grandparents can get the hang of. Research various systems to see if you find the easiest system to use. Some features with can help make your home more user friendly include:
- App and Voice control
- Remote access
- User-Friendly Interfaces
Security Features
A smart home platform offers many benefits when it comes to protecting your home. Your security cameras, lighting and alarms can all be interconnected and accessible from your smart devices. Just some security smart home devices include:
- Security cameras
- Video Doorbell
- Outdoor motion sensor lighting
- Smart Lock
- Automated lighting for when you’re away on holidays.
- Keyless Entry
- Encryption and Privacy Measures
How much can home automation cost?
Initial Investment
Due to the technology, smart compatible devices are likely going to cost more than other devices. This is becoming less and less the case as smart compatibility becomes more the norm.
Installation Expenses Smart home systems
With any investment, you need to weigh up both the upfront costs and the long-term benefits. While the initial cost of installation for a smart home may be pricey, there are a range of long-term benefits, including the potential to reduce costs in energy usage.
Energy Efficiency Benefits of smart home devices
While it seems that having more high-tech devices would increase your energy bill, the opposite is more likely to be true. Smart home devices tend to use the latest technology which has a focus on being more energy efficient. A good example is with lighting where LED light bulbs have a far higher energy efficiency than older bulbs.
There’s also the ability to better control your devices from anywhere. Things like leaving the lights or air-con are much less likely when you can keep an eye on them from your phone (or they’re automated).
Our Tips for Seamless Integration of your new home automation During Home Construction
Collaborate with your builders and contractors
Planning and Design Phase
For the best results with automating your house, it’s best to collaborate with your builders and contractors to create the best layout for your home automation systems.
Wiring Consideration
For any electrical work, you’ll need to hire a qualified electrician. Having an idea of what devices you want where will help guide your contractor in providing adequate wiring for your home.
Future-Proofing Your Home
Technology isn’t going anywhere, so building your home to accommodate home automation is a wise move both for adapting your own lifestyle in years to come and if you ever decide to sell.
Home Automation Systems Frequently Asked Questions and Considerations
Do I need a professional to install my home automation system?
While smart home devices and networks are designed to be user friendly, the installation process can be complicated and beyond most DIYers. Wiring for example will require a qualified contractor. Professionals can also help with your overall layout and recommend the best devices for your system.
Will I need professionals to add new smart home devices to my network?
Many devices such as TVs, sound systems and portable devices should be easy to add to your network without professional system. Where you may require a pro is for installation, especially if it requires wiring or involves heavy labour. For example, while installing a garage door opener is something you can DIY, it may be trickier than you think and it’s easy to mess up if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Are all smart home devices the same quality?
Just like not every car is equal and restaurants vary in quality, smart home devices will vary in terms of quality and their features. We’ve all bought a cheaper appliance for the time being and the same principle can apply to smart home devices. A cheaper brand or model will probably get the job done but don’t expect it to have all the bells and whistles of the more expensive brands. We recommend doing your due diligence and researching any brand you’re considering buying.
Do all devices work with all systems?
Third-party smart devices usually are compatible with Google Home, apple home app, and alexa and google assistant, however, it’s always worth checking this before making a purchase.
Is my network/internet connection strong enough for a smart home?
The internet in Australia leaves a lot to be desired, particularly in rural areas. Before going ahead with making your home automated, have someone look at your home to make sure it can handle a smart home system.
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