How to Turn Your House Into a SmartHome
BY Jeffrey October 21, 2020
Ready to upgrade your home? Here are a handful of smart changes and options to help you turn your house into a SmartHome.
Speakers and Displays
While the main two powerhouses of smart speakers are Alexa and Google, there are actually quite a lot of options to choose from. Apple, Sonos, Nest, and Bose are just some of many that will connect with various platforms to get you what you need. These speakers will range from $20-$1000 depending on size, brand, and quality. If you’re just looking for a fun little speaker to play your favorite playlist when you get up in the mornings, you shouldn’t have trouble finding one that fits your budget.
Plugs and Outlets
Have you ever gone on vacation and wondered, “Did I unplug the iron before I left?” Smart plugs and outlets give you the power to control your electronic devices from your phone. No more running late to check back on a forgotten toaster oven ever again!
Security Cameras and Smart Locks
Security systems have been around for decades, but today’s enhanced safety features available will not only alert you of the neighborhood kids coming to steal your holiday packages, but also gives you the opportunity to add extra door, motion, and window a comprehensive system that includes door locks, garage door openers, indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras, lights, sirens, smoke/CO detectors, water sensors, and more. If you are on a budget, affordable security cameras that stream to your mobile device can start at $20, and the more enhanced systems can run you a couple hundred dollars. Be aware there are usually monthly/annual costs with the superior systems.
Heating and Cooling
We live in a world now where we can save money on our A/C while we’re out shopping, but prep our home to cool down for us before we arrive. Not only do they manage the temperature of your home, but also double as a smoke and carbon monoxide detector, and even a humidifier and dehumidifier.
Lighting
Today’s smart bulbs are starting to mature with apps and features, but be aware that you get what you pay for. If all you’re looking for is a couple of bulbs for your main rooms, it’s only going to set you back $10-20. If you are wanting to go all in, full room kits will cost you upwards of $150. These can be controlled via smart phone or voice recognition. Clap on, clap off features are officially a thing of the past. Hey Google, turn on the lights!
Cooking Appliances
From ovens and microwaves and smokers and grills, manage the temperatures and settings of your dinner from the click of a button. Maybe you’re running a little behind at work and your worried your roast will dry out. Or maybe you just want a fresh cup of coffee made right when you get out of bed. What’s next, self-stirring spatulas? Well guess what? Those exist too.
In today’s age, tech is definitely making a more prominent appearance in our everyday tasks. If you’re wanting to step into the future, now is a good time to start investing. Curious about smart devices? Learn all about The Internet of Things right here.