From our industries to our entertainment, technology has come to dominate all aspects of our lives. It runs our industries, it dictates how we spend our time, so it should come as no surprise that it would also control our homes. The digital man Friday, a single set of controls can dictate how you want your lights, the temperature, and in some cases, perform these functions by just sensing your presence. Welcome to the smart home automation!
What Is Smart Home Automation?
Smart home automation refers to a system of devices that are connected by a common network. These systems can then be controlled either while you are in the house or even remotely. Typically, this would mean that you can control your microwave, the television, the lights, locks, and other appliances, all from one central control system.
Sometimes, some smart home systems also record your preferences and can have the home set up just as you like it without keying in specific instructions. While some functions are controlled by a touchscreen installed in the house, some are controlled by a remote control that can even be on your smartphone.
As technology expands, we see that smart homes are gaining popularity for the convenience that comes with controlling all your appliances on a single screen. Here are four of the advantages of deploying home automation.
1. Many Devices, One Control
When all your appliances are on one device, it helps in maintaining control over their use. It adds to the user’s ease, who does not have to keep track of various control modes like remotes to separately manage each appliance. By allowing remote access to each equipment, you are able to manage more than one device safely.
Home automation also implies that you do not have to move around from one place of equipment to another. The kind of ease that a centralized home brings to the user is unparalleled. A smart home will also mean that you do not have to spend time learning about each new appliance and how it works.
2. Keeping A Watch Over Your Homes
Smart home automation acts as a digital guard of the house and allows you to monitor your safety. You can add the security cameras, motion detectors, and alarms all on the same platform. Here is where remote access scores another point. If you are away and an alarm is triggered, you can take full stock of the situation.
In addition to this, having all security systems on the same network also means that you will be able to check for any intruders on all fronts. This is particularly useful when you are away for some time and still want to keep a tab on the house. They are designed to give you an alarm and also have a video feed in real-time to help you see the activities in your home.
3. Control How Much Energy You Use
One of the benefits of home automation is its ability to be programmed, which allows you to feed in specific instructions. This removal of manual control also implies that you can set some appliances in such a way that they save energy. A prime example is setting the thermostat to adjust the central heat or air conditioning to match the temperature outside. This way, home automation can automatically adjust the use and does not require frequent maintenance by people.
Similarly, control of the appliances remotely allows you to see which devices are running at a point of time. This means that you can see devices that are running but are not being used. You can then shut off these devices to conserve energy. In the absence of control and out of sight, these devices continue to run and perform as per specifications.
4. Better Functionality
Some home automation systems are designed in such a way that they are able to gauge the reactions of the people and adjust the setting accordingly. From recommending a new show to watch to keeping just the right temperature when you come back from a trip, they can operate the house exactly as you want it.
These ‘intelligent’ systems go beyond just entertainment and home management. If your kitchen appliances are on the same network, it will be able to warn you if the stove or microwave is left on. Both are dangerous hazards if left unattended, but with home automation, you do not have to physically stand over it but can control it even if you are in another room.
While home automation has many benefits, it is advisable to get in touch with a licensed professional who can educate you on the best practices and help you find the perfect system best suited for your needs.