“Smart homes” used to be the stuff of science fiction. A house that automatically caters to your every need, working constantly to keep you comfortable in every way. But that sci-fi dream is becoming a reality faster than you might think. There’s all kinds of home technology available right now that can automate your home and keep you safe and comfortable, plus add to the value of your home.
- Personal assistant robot. These devices can send and receive messages, send alerts for tasks and events, make restaurant reservations, take photos, and much more. What’s more, they’re voice activated, so you can talk to yours from anywhere in the room, and it will hear you and carry out your instructions.
- Smart thermostat. Programmable thermostats save energy while keeping your home comfortable. Smart thermostats learn your preferences over time, so they don’t have to be programmed to keep you comfortable. WiFi connected to let you monitor your home comfort from anywhere, these devices are a little expensive, but can save money and energy over time.
- Smart security. Cheaper than a regular security system, these packages include motion sensors, cameras, and alarms which can all be monitored and controlled from a smartphone or tablet. The one drawback is that while it alerts you when there’s an intruder, it doesn’t call the police. You have to do that yourself.
- Smart hub. So you have half a dozen different automation devices in your home. That means you have to go to half a dozen different sources to manage them — that is, unless you have a smart hub. This device includes sensors to monitor all of your other smart devices, allowing you to manage/control them from a single app. Sensor range could be better, but hubs are generally easy to use, more affordable, and compatible with most of your automation devices.
Adding some technology will make your home safer and more comfortable and could save you money in the long run. For more tips and tricks on protecting your biggest investments, call Helen today at 847.967.0022 and email [email protected].